Foreigners’ Guide to Obtaining a Driving License in Vietnam

1. Introduction

Having a driver’s license in Vietnam is an important requirement for foreigners living or working in the country. This license facilitates easy transportation and ensures compliance with traffic regulations, allowing for the exploration of the country and participation in social activities without relying on public transportation.

However, driving in Vietnam may present certain challenges, such as the distinct traffic environment, congestion, and the fact that traffic rules are not always strictly followed. Foreigners may find it difficult to grasp local regulations and handle traffic-related emergencies.

Nevertheless, with thorough preparation and adherence to regulations, driving in Vietnam can become convenient and safe, helping foreigners integrate and experience the country more fully.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Based on the provisions of Article 7 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT, supplemented by Clause 5, Article 1 of Circular 38/2019/TT-BGTVT, the necessary conditions for foreigners to apply for a driver’s license in Vietnam include:

Residency and Employment: The applicant must be a foreigner who is permitted to reside, work, or study in Vietnam.

Age Requirements: The applicant must meet the age requirements (as of the date of the driving test) as follows:

• At least 16 years old: Eligible to operate a motorbike.
• At least 18 years old: Eligible for a Category A1, A, B1, B, C1 driver’s license and a certificate of road traffic law knowledge to operate a specialized motor vehicle.
• At least 21 years old: Eligible for a Category C, BE driver’s license.
• At least 24 years old: Eligible for a Category D1, D2, C1E, CE driver’s license.
• At least 27 years old: Eligible for a Category D, D1E, D2E, DE driver’s license.
• Maximum age: 57 years old for men and 55 years old for women when driving passenger vehicles with more than 29 seats (excluding the driver’s seat) or sleeper buses.

Health: The applicant must meet the health conditions as stipulated in Circular No. 24/2015/TTLT-BYT-BGTVT issued by the Ministry of Health.

Educational Background: No specific educational requirements. However, a copy of a junior high school diploma or equivalent or higher is required for upgrading a driver’s license to categories D, E.

3. Types of Driver’s Licenses in Vietnam

Below are the categories of driver’s licenses in Vietnam according to the provisions of Article 16 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT of the Ministry of Transport:

3.1. Category A Driver’s License

• Category A1:
  • Operates two-wheeled motorcycles with a cylinder capacity of 50 cm³ to less than 175 cm³.
  • Three-wheeled motorcycles for people with disabilities.
• Category A2:
  • Operates two-wheeled motorcycles with a cylinder capacity of 175 cm³ or more and vehicles specified for Category A1.
• Category A3:
  • Operates three-wheeled motorcycles, vehicles specified for Category A1, and similar vehicles.
• Category A4:
  • Operates small tractors with a payload of up to 1,000 kg.

3.2. Category B Driver’s License

• Automatic Transmission B1 (B1.1):
  • For non-professional drivers, operating:
    • Automatic transmission cars with up to 9 seats.
    • Trucks with a design payload of less than 3,500 kg.
    • Cars for people with disabilities.
• Manual Transmission B1 (B1.2):
  • For non-professional drivers, operating:
    • Cars with up to 9 seats.
    • Trucks with a design payload of less than 3,500 kg.
    • Tractors towing a trailer with a design payload of less than 3,500 kg.
• Category B2:
  • For professional drivers, operating:
    • Cars with 4 to 9 seats, specialized cars with a design payload of less than 3.5 tons.
    • Vehicles specified for Category B1.

3.3. Category C Driver’s License

• For drivers operating cars with 4 to 9 seats, trucks with a design payload of 3,500 kg or more, and vehicles specified for Category B1, B2.

3.4. Category D Driver’s License

• For drivers operating passenger vehicles with 10 to 30 seats, including the driver’s seat, and vehicles specified for Category B1, B2, C.

3.5. Category E Driver’s License

• For drivers operating passenger vehicles with more than 30 seats and vehicles specified for Category B1, B2, C, D.

3.6. Category F Driver’s License

• For drivers who already hold a B2, C, D, or E driver’s license, operating vehicles with trailers with a design payload of more than 750 kg:
  • Category FB2: For drivers of B2 vehicles towing a trailer.
  • Category FC: For drivers of C vehicles towing a trailer.
  • Category FD: For drivers of D vehicles towing a trailer.
  • Category FE: For drivers of E vehicles towing a trailer.

Note: Holders of B1, B2, C, D, and E licenses may operate corresponding vehicles with an additional trailer with a design payload of up to 750 kg.

4. Driving Test Application Documents

According to Article 19 of Circular 12/2017, the required documents for a driving test application are as follows:

• A request form to study and take the driving test, as specified in Appendix 7 issued with Circular 12/2017.
• A valid passport for overseas Vietnamese or a copy of a passport valid for more than six months for foreigners.
• A temporary residence card, permanent residence card, diplomatic ID card, or official ID card for foreigners.
• A medical certificate for drivers issued by an authorized medical facility as per regulations.

Tips for Document Preparation:

Carefully review requirements: Visit the licensing authority’s website to identify the necessary requirements and forms.

Prepare copies: Always have multiple copies of important documents to avoid delays if additional documentation is needed.

Schedule a health check early: Book your health check in advance to ensure sufficient time.

Seek legal advice: Consulting with a legal expert can help you avoid unnecessary mistakes and save time during the driver’s license application process.

5. Application Process

Step 1: Prepare the documents

Prepare a complete set of documents as required in section 3.

Step 2: Register for the test

Apply and required documents to the Driving Training and Testing Center.

Pay the fees as prescribed by the Driving Training and Testing Center.

6. Driving Test

6.1 Overview of the Driving Test Process

Theory learning:

Learners will be trained on road traffic laws, driving techniques, and basic vehicle structure and repair.

Practical driving:

Candidates will be guided on how to operate a vehicle, from basic to advanced levels, including exercises in a controlled environment and on public roads. Practical training helps learners become familiar with driving maneuvers, handle situations, and comply with traffic regulations.

Driving test:

Theory test: Candidates answer questions related to traffic laws, driving techniques, and other content depending on the type of license.

Practical test in a controlled environment: Candidates drive through exercises such as figure-eight driving, obstacle crossing, winding roads, parking, etc.

Practical test on public roads: Candidates drive on real roads, handle traffic situations, and follow instructions from the examiner.

6.2 Tips for Passing the Driving Test

Thoroughly study theory: Master traffic laws and signs. Use study apps and participate in review sessions.

Practice regularly: Consistently practice the practical test exercises, especially those in the testing grounds and trial runs on public roads.

Prepare carefully: Check documents, and vehicle, and stay relaxed before the test day. Adjust the seat and mirrors before starting the test.

Driving skills during the test: Drive slowly, stay calm, and observe carefully. Follow the examiner’s instructions and trust in your abilities.

7. Costs and Processing Time Related to Driver’s License

7.1 Costs Related to Obtaining a Driver’s License

Driving training costs

• Theory and practical training fees: Include theory classes on traffic laws and practical driving sessions. Fees may vary depending on the training centre and the type of license (A1, B1, B2, C, etc.).
• Study material fees: Costs for purchasing books and materials for theory exam preparation.

Driving test fees

• Theory test fee: Fee to take the traffic law theory test.
• Practical test fee: Fee to participate in the practical driving test.
• Driver’s license issuance fee: Fee for issuing a driver’s license after passing the test.

Health check costs

• Health check fee: The cost of undergoing a medical examination at designated medical facilities.

7.2 Estimated Time to Receive the License

After passing the test, the time for the licensing authority to process and issue the driver’s license is typically 7 to 10 working days.

8. Renewal and Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License

8.1 How to renew a Vietnamese driver’s license

Method 1: Online

Step 1: Access the National Public Service Portal at https://dichvucong.gov.vn/p/home/dvc-trang-chu.html.

Step 2: Select “Online Public Services. “Type in the search box “driver’s license renewal.”

Step 3: Review the detailed procedure to know what documents are required.

Step 4: Choose the executing authority. Select the Province/City, choose the Department, and click “Agree.”

Step 5: The interface will redirect to the selected driver’s license renewal service portal, then click “Submit directly.”

Step 6: Complete the required information on the page and click register.

Step 7: After your application is confirmed, follow the scheduled appointment time, bring your ID card or passport (for foreigners) for verification, and bring all necessary documents to complete the license renewal process.

Method 2: Via Post Office

According to Article 38 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT, the procedure for renewing a driver’s license via postal service is as follows:

Step 1: Prepare the required documents as stipulated.

Step 2: Submit the documents to the nearest post office.

Step 3: The Department of Transport receives and processes the application.

According to Clause 8, Article 37 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT, amended by Circular 01/2021/TT-BGTVT, after receiving the documents from the post office, the Department of Transport processes the application within five working days from the date of receipt of the complete and correct documents. If the driver’s license is not renewed, a response with the reasons must be provided.

Step 4: Receive the result.

After the Department of Transport processes the application, wait to receive the new driver’s license from the postal service.

8.2 The process of converting a foreign driver’s license to a Vietnamese license

This process is regulated by Article 41 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT, amended by Clause 23, Article 1 of Circular 38/2019/TT-BGTVT.

1. Documents required:
   • Application form for converting the driver’s license (as per the specified format).
   • Notarized translation of the foreign driver’s license.
   • A copy of the passport, personal identification, residence card, or documents verifying permanent residence in Vietnam.
   • Also, prepare the original documents for verification.
2. Submitting the application:
   • Submit directly to the Directorate for Roads of Vietnam or the Department of Transport at the place of residence.
3. Processing procedure:
   • The driver must have their photo taken at the licensing authority.
   • The original documents will be managed by the driver; the licensing authority will store them for one year for foreigners not residing long-term.
4. Conversion fee:
   • 135,000 VND as per regulations.

9. Driving in Vietnam: Tips and Advice

9.1 Practical tips for safe driving in Vietnam:

• Adhere to speed limits: Always follow speed limits and adjust according to road and weather conditions.
• Pay attention to traffic signals: Obey traffic lights and road signs.
• Maintain a safe distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow enough reaction time if necessary.
• Use vehicle lights: Use headlights at night and in rain to increase visibility.
• Practice traffic etiquette: Respect other vehicles and avoid conflicts on the road.
• Regular vehicle checks: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road.

9.2 Common traffic rules and regulations:

• Drive on the right: Keep to the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
• No phone usage: Do not use a phone while driving unless with a hands-free device.
• Be mindful of pedestrians: Give way to pedestrians at crosswalks.
• Check alcohol levels: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

10. Conclusion

Safe driving in Vietnam requires adherence to traffic rules and thorough preparation. Practical tips help improve safety and minimize risks on the road. To ensure you fully understand the regulations and procedures related to obtaining a driver’s license in Vietnam, contact our legal experts for detailed information and support in completing the necessary procedures efficiently and legally.

• Harley Miller Law Firm “HMLF”
• Address: 14th floor, HM Town Building, 412 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ward 05, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Phone: +84 937215585
• Website: hmlf.vn
• Email: miller@hmlf.vn