Driving in Ho Chi Minh City
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Ho Chi Minh City
IDP Required
Same as all of Vietnam - IDP required along with your original license. Police checks are common in tourist areas.
Fine without IDP: 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND (€30-45)
Where to Get IDP: Must be obtained in your home country before traveling to Vietnam.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Ho Chi Minh City
Daily Rental Cost
120,000 - 250,000 VND/day ($5-10)IDP with motorcycle category required. Rental shops may not ask, but you're uninsured without it.
Insurance Warning
Without IDP, you're fully liable for any accident costs. Medical bills can be thousands of dollars.
Rental Tips
- District 1 has the heaviest traffic - practice elsewhere first
- Use Grab bike for short trips until you're confident
- Keep phone in a secure mount or bag - phone snatching is common
- Refuel at stations, not roadside sellers (diluted fuel risk)
Traffic Rules in Ho Chi Minh City
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Roundabouts are rare - most intersections are chaotic free-for-alls
- 2U-turns are common and accepted almost anywhere
- 3Buses have dedicated lanes that scooters often use illegally
- 4Red lights are sometimes treated as suggestions
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Riding too close to buses and trucks
- Using phone while driving (illegal and dangerous)
- Not checking mirrors before lane changes
- Speeding on seemingly empty roads at night
Horn Culture
Constant honking is communication. Two short honks = 'passing on your left'. Long honk = 'danger/warning'.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
800,000 - 2,000,000 VND ($32-80)
No Helmet
200,000 - 300,000 VND ($8-12)
No IDP
800,000 - 1,200,000 VND ($32-48)
Red Light
600,000 - 1,000,000 VND ($24-40)
Drink Driving
2,000,000 - 18,000,000 VND ($80-720)
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Bag snatching is common - wear backpack on front or use basket
- Avoid drinking and driving - police breathalyze tourists
- Stay alert at traffic lights - snatch thieves target stopped bikes
- Use well-lit main roads at night
Best Time to Drive
Sunday mornings are quietest. Avoid 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM rush hours.
Rainy Season Warning
Heavy afternoon storms May-November. Streets flood within minutes. Pull over and wait it out.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Bui Vien backpacker street at night (very crowded)
- Industrial zones in District 7 and Thu Duc
Parking
Average Cost
10,000 - 30,000 VND ($0.40 - $1.20)Scooter Parking
Plentiful in the city. Costs 5,000-10,000 VND in central areas.
Parking Tips
- Shopping malls have secure parking (usually free with purchase)
- Street parking has attendants - always get a ticket
- Never leave helmet on bike - it will be stolen
FAQ: Driving in Ho Chi Minh City
Is Ho Chi Minh City traffic worse than Hanoi?
HCMC has more vehicles but wider roads. Many find it slightly easier than Hanoi's narrow Old Quarter streets, though both require caution and patience.
Can I drive from Ho Chi Minh City to other cities?
Yes, but long-distance driving is risky for tourists. Roads between cities have fast trucks, poor lighting, and few services. Buses or trains are safer for intercity travel.
What happens if I have an accident without IDP?
You'll be fully liable for all costs. Your travel insurance won't cover medical bills or damage. Police may fine you additionally for driving without proper license.
Emergency Contacts
Police
113
Ambulance
115
Tourist Police
028 3822 9899
Roadside Assistance
Call your rental shop
Practice for Your Vietnam Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.