Vietnam on Motorbike: The most frequent asked questions

Traveling on a motorbike is absolutely the most exciting way of exploring around Vietnam. Be it scooting around cities or the ability to get out into rural Vietnam, driving a motorbike in Vietnam provides so much freedom and unlocks a whole different experience of the culture, scenery and can take you off the beaten path. Whether you’re a newbie motorbike driver, an expat looking to explore your new city with more freedom, or a traveller ready for the motorbike trip of a lifetime, you’re in the right place. This guide to motorbiking Vietnam covers everything from learning to ride and buying a motorbike, to routes and safety tips.

Do I need a license to ride a motorbike in Vietnam?

YES, Vietnamese driving licences are mandatory for all drivers of motor vehicles as well as for riders of motorcycles with a capacity of 50cc or greater. Non-Vietnamese citizens are only permitted to drive in Vietnam if they hold a temporary Vietnamese driver’s licence.

Is an international driving license valid in Vietnam?

Only the 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid for use in Vietnam. Other types of international driver’s licenses, including the IAA driving license, are not.

The validity of the International Driving Permit in Vietnam has been arranged through the 1968 Vienna Convention. The convention was signed by Vietnam at August 20, 2014 and established by law in Circular No. 29/2015/TT-BGTVT dated July 6, 2015.

NOTE: The 1968 Convention has not been ratified by countries as Australia, Canada, Iceland, India, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, and United States of America. This means that an International Driving Permit obtained in these countries is not valid in Vietnam, and they are required to obtain a Vietnamese driving license.

Where can I obtain an IDP?

You can only get your IDP in your home country, the permit cannot be obtained once in Vietnam or on the road. Usually, you can obtain the IDP at your national drivers’ association.

What happens if I drive in Vietnam without the proper licensing?

If you are stopped by the police, you will receive a fine (about $90 or 2 million VND (2024)).

Also, driving a motorbike without the proper licensing can affect the validity of your travel insurance in case of an accident caused by or to you. This is at the driver’s own risk.