Vietnam Driving License Guide: A Comprehensive Overview

After driving trucks for over 10 years, witnessing countless joys and sorrows on Vietnam’s roads, Mr. Ba – a seasoned truck driver in Hanoi – always dreamt of a better life. Following advice, he decided to “upgrade” his driver’s license, hoping to find new opportunities and a higher income.

Mr. Ba’s story resonates with many drivers on their journey to master the steering wheel. So, what types of driving licenses are available in Vietnam today? Let’s explore this topic in detail with Hanoi Truck.

Driving License Categories in Vietnam

1. Classification by Vehicle Type

Currently, the driving license system in Vietnam is divided into 10 categories, based on the size, load capacity, and purpose of the vehicle:

• Category A1: Two-wheeled motorcycles with a cylinder capacity from 50 cm3 to 175 cm3.
• Category A2: Two-wheeled motorcycles with a cylinder capacity over 175 cm3 or three-wheeled motorcycles with a cylinder capacity over 175 cm3.
• Category B1: Passenger cars with fewer than 9 seats (including the driver’s seat); trucks with a payload under 3,500 kg; small tractors.
• Category B2: Passenger vehicles with 10 to 30 seats (including the driver’s seat); trucks with a payload from 3,500 kg to under 10,000 kg; all types of tractors.
• Category C: Trucks with a payload of 10,000 kg or more; tractors pulling trailers, semi-trailers, and lowboys with a payload of 10,000 kg or more.
• Category D1: Passenger vehicles with 10 to 30 seats, towing a passenger semi-trailer; passenger vehicles with more than 30 seats and fewer than 45 seats (including the driver’s seat).
• Category D2: Passenger vehicles with more than 30 seats (including the driver’s seat).
• Category E: Vehicles towing trailers and semi-trailers (excluding vehicles in category FC).
• Category FB2: Specialized vehicles equipped with cranes, specialized vehicles equipped with drilling equipment.
• Category FC: Tractors pulling trailers and semi-trailers as specified in point c, clause 1, Article 60 of the Road Traffic Law.

2. Classification by Usage Needs

Driving licenses are also categorized based on usage needs:

• Personal Driving License: For individuals using vehicles for personal transportation, not for commercial purposes.
• Commercial Driving License: For individuals engaged in driving for commercial transportation purposes.

Latest Driving License Fee Schedule 2023

Note: This price list is for reference only. Fees may vary depending on the driving training center and registration time.

Important Notes for the Driving License Test

Essential Things to Remember

• Choose a reputable training center: Select a licensed driving training center with a structured curriculum and experienced instructors.
• Master the traffic laws: Students must seriously study and understand the traffic laws and practice safe driving skills before taking the driving test.
• Prepare all necessary documents: Before registering for the test, prepare all required documents as regulated.

Truck Feng Shui: Choosing the Right Color for Prosperity

Not only Mr. Ba, but many truck drivers are also interested in feng shui. Choosing a vehicle color that matches their destiny, hanging feng shui items… are believed to bring good luck and safety on every journey.

Mr. Nguyen Van A – a vehicle feng shui expert – emphasized: “Choosing a car color that matches one’s destiny and age is very important. It’s not just a personal preference but also affects the owner’s fortune and luck.”