International Drivers License Vietnam: Who Needs One and How to Get It
Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations to explore by road — from the winding passes of the northern highlands to the coastal stretches of Highway 1. But before you get behind the wheel, you need to understand exactly what documentation is required. This guide covers everything about the international drivers license Vietnam rules — whether you are a foreigner planning to drive in Vietnam or a Vietnamese citizen heading abroad.Apply for your Vietnam IDP today — quick, straightforward, and processed online at e-idpa.com/viet-nam-permit/.
The Critical Rule: Vietnam and the 1968 Vienna Convention
Vietnam joined the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic in 2015. This is the single most important fact to understand about driving in Vietnam. It means Vietnam only recognises International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued under the 1968 Convention format — not the older 1949 format.
Practically, this means your IDP must specifically state it conforms to the 1968 conventions on road traffic. When you apply for an international driving permit in Vietnam or before travelling there, always confirm the 1968 format is being issued. The 1949 format will not be accepted by Vietnamese authorities.
Indian licence holders: India has not ratified the 1968 Vienna Convention. This means an Indian driving license is not valid in Vietnam, even with an IDP. Driving without proper documentation can result in fines of approximately €200 and vehicle impoundment for 10–15 days.
Scenario 1 — Foreigners Driving in Vietnam
If you are a foreign visitor or resident wanting to drive in Vietnam, here is what you need to know.
Who Is Eligible?
You can drive legally in Vietnam if your home country is a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention. You must carry both your valid national driver’s license and a 1968-format IDP issued in your home country. Never leave your home country without obtaining your IDP first — you cannot get one issued abroad.
Foreigners Residing in Vietnam
If you are permanently or temporarily residing in Vietnam, you are eligible to apply for an IDP issued by Vietnam itself — provided your home country is a Convention member. Vietnam’s IDP code begins with “VN” followed by a 12-digit number linked to your national driving license.
Required documents for foreign residents applying in Vietnam:
- Completed application form (Appendix XVI, Circular 12/2025/TT-BCA)
- Vietnamese translation of your foreign driver’s license, certified by a notary or your country’s embassy or consulate in Vietnam
- Copy of your residence card, diplomatic ID, or official ID card
- One 3×4 cm colour portrait photograph
- Original foreign driving license, passport, and residence card (for verification on submission)
Submit your dossier in person at the Ministry of Public Security’s Traffic Police Department or any provincial Public Security Department Traffic Police Division. Processing takes up to five working days after receipt of a complete dossier. Your IDP can be collected in person or delivered by post.
Scenario 2 — Vietnamese Citizens Driving Abroad
If you hold a valid Vietnamese driving license and want to drive overseas, you need to obtain an IDP before your departure. The IDP acts as an official multilingual translation of your driver’s license and is recognised in over 150 countries under the UN conventions on road traffic.
Required documents:
- Completed application form (Appendix XVI, Circular 12/2025/TT-BCA)
- One 3×4 cm colour portrait photograph
- Your valid Vietnamese PET-format driving license (present original at submission)
Apply in person at the Traffic Police Department, or submit online via Vietnam’s national public service portal. Processing time is within five working days. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a full, valid licence — temporary or provisional licences are not accepted.Travelling soon? Get your international drivers license Vietnam permit processed quickly at e-idpa.com/viet-nam-permit/ — digital and hard copy options available.
IDP Validity and Key Rules
| Detail | Information |
| Valid convention format in Vietnam | 1968 format only |
| Validity period | Up to 1 year from date of issue (1949 format); up to 3 years (1968 format) — cannot exceed domestic licence validity |
| Minimum age | 18 years old |
| Must carry with | Original national driver’s license at all times |
| IDP as substitute for local licence | Not permitted — IDP cannot replace a Vietnamese driving license within Vietnam |
| Processing time (in-person) | Within 5 working days |
| Penalty for non-compliance | Fines up to ~€200 + vehicle impoundment (10–15 days) |
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Can I drive in Vietnam with just my national driving license?
Only if your home country is a 1968 Vienna Convention signatory and you also carry a valid 1968-format IDP alongside it. Neither document alone is sufficient.
Where do I apply for an international driving permit in Vietnam as a foreign visitor?
Visitors should obtain their IDP from their home country before travelling. Foreign residents of Vietnam may apply directly at the MPS Traffic Police Department or provincial traffic police offices.
Is there an online option to apply for an IDP?
Vietnamese citizens can apply via the national public service portal. Visitors travelling to Vietnam can apply through authorised online platforms — see e-idpa.com/viet-nam-permit/ for a fast, streamlined process with both soft-copy and hard-copy delivery options.
What happens if I drive in Vietnam without a valid IDP?
You risk significant fines and vehicle impoundment for up to 15 days. Your travel or rental insurance may also be invalidated, leaving you personally liable for any accident costs.