Driving License in Vietnam for Expats
Yes, for IDP valid for 3 months. After that, you must convert to a Vietnam license. The official test is only in Vietnamese, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Vietnam Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- Cục CSGT — Cục Cảnh sát giao thông - Bộ Công an
- Official Test Language
- Vietnamese
- Grace Period
- IDP valid for 3 months
- Processing Time
- 1-2 weeks (if documents ready)
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Not for exchange
- Medical Exam
- Required
- Total Cost
- 600,000-1,500,000 VND (~$25-60 USD)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
Must convert license. No special exemptions.
US/UK Citizens
Must convert license. No special agreements.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Must convert license. Process same for all foreigners.
Students
Can use IDP for duration of stay. Conversion required for long-term.
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Valid visa or work permit
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Notarized Vietnamese translation
- ✓Medical certificate
- ✓Passport photos (4x6cm)
- ✓Application form
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- 135,000 VND (~$5.50 USD)
- Medical Exam
- 200,000-500,000 VND (~$8-20 USD)
- Translation
- 200,000-400,000 VND (~$8-16 USD)
- Total Estimated
- 600,000-1,500,000 VND (~$25-60 USD)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 5
No Agreement (Full Test Required): Countries without agreements require both theory and practical tests
Tips for Expats in Vietnam
- Vietnamese test has 60 "death questions" - instant fail if wrong
- Test is ONLY in Vietnamese - practice in English is essential
- Scooter license (A1) different from car license (B2)
- IDP only valid for 3 months - convert early
- Process surprisingly quick once documents ready
From a recent expat graduate
A real story from someone who got their licence as a foreigner
“I find the service invaluable. It helped me immensely and I am impressed by the format and content. First class!”I have now passed my driving theory test. The course and information was great and very helpful. The reason I had to take the test is because I am living in Chile which does not recognise the driver licence of my mother country.