Driving in Vietnam: IDP, licence, motorbike rules and what to check first

You can drive in Vietnam legally when you carry an IDP issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention together with your Thai licence for the same vehicle class, and both must still be valid. Before you travel, confirm the IDP format with Thailand's Department of Land Transport, and remember that Vietnam drives on the right, unlike Thailand.

Which international driving permit works in Vietnam?

Vietnam's Law 36/2024/QH15 on Road Traffic Order and Safety, Article 57(6), says valid licences include an international driving permit paired with a national licence issued by a state party to the 1968 UN Convention on Road Traffic (the Vienna Convention).

• The UN Treaty Collection shows Thailand signed the 1968 Convention on 8 November 1968 and ratified it on 1 May 2020.
• The same database lists Viet Nam as acceding to the 1968 Convention on 20 August 2014.
• Article 57(8) defines an IDP as one issued by a Vienna Convention state party in a uniform format, valid for no more than 3 years.

For the worldwide basics of how an IDP works, see the site's IDP guide, “What an International Driving Permit is, how to get one, and whether it really lets you drive abroad”.

What licence do you need to ride a motorbike in Vietnam?

You need a licence that matches the vehicle. Article 57(1) of Law 36/2024/QH15 sets class A1 for two-wheel motorcycles up to 125 cc (or electric up to 11 kW) and class A for anything above that.

For the fine attached to each offence, check the current figures from an official source.

What should you watch when renting a motorbike in Vietnam?

Vietnam National Authority of Tourism says scooter and moped rental shops are found in almost every city, but renting does not make riding legal by itself. You still need a licence that matches the vehicle class.

• Check the bike, brakes, lights and helmet before you accept it.
• Longer rentals may ask for a deposit or a passport, but handing over your passport is not advised.
• Photograph the bike from every side and keep the rental agreement.
• Check rental prices directly with the shop.

What is the simpler option if you would rather not drive?

The simplest option is to rent a car with a driver. You skip the IDP question, the switch to right-hand traffic and unfamiliar roads, which suits mountain routes especially. Ride-hailing apps such as Grab also work in many cities.

Can you drive a Thai car into Vietnam overland?

For taking a Thai car across the border into Vietnam, check the official requirements with the authorities of both countries, including vehicle papers, insurance and which crossings are open, before you plan the route.

What should you prepare before you drive in Vietnam?

1. 1Check your IDPContact the Department of Land Transport to confirm your IDP is the 1968 format and still valid.
2. 2Carry both documentsCarry the IDP and your Thai licence for that vehicle class every time you drive.
3. 3Get used to right-hand trafficVietnam drives on the right, so practise somewhere safe and avoid busy main roads on your first day.
4. 4Plan for a helmet and no alcoholUse a standard-compliant helmet and never ride or drive after drinking.

Why does mobile data matter when you drive in Vietnam?

Navigation and ride-hailing both need data, but the law prohibits holding and using a phone while riding or driving. Set your route before you start and use a phone mount or let a passenger handle the map.

• Set the destination and load the map before you set off.
• If you need to check the route, stop somewhere safe first.
• Use Grab to book a car when you would rather not drive.

The related articles cover offline maps and data while driving in more depth. When you are ready, you can set up a Vietnam eSIM before you fly.

See Vietnam eSIM options for a driving trip