Driving License in Вијетнам for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Вијетнам with a foreign license?
Yes, for IDP valid for 3 months. After that, you must convert to a Вијетнам license. The official test is only in Vietnamese, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Вијетнам 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 |
| 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) |
| Processing Time | 1-2 weeks (if documents ready) |
Preparing for the Vietnamese driving test?
Practice with realistic questions on AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules before taking the official test.
🇻🇳 Practice Вијетнам TestEligibility 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.
License Exchange Agreements
Japan
South Korea
China
Laos
Cambodia
No Agreement (Full Test Required): Countries without agreements require both theory and practical tests
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) |
Tips for Expats in Вијетнам
- 💡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
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Vietnamese driving test in English?
What are "death questions" (câu hỏi điểm liệt)?
Do I need a license to rent a scooter in Vietnam?
How long does the Vietnamese license last?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Вијетнам driving test in English.
🇻🇳 Practice Вијетнам