Is an International Driving Permit Valid in Vietnam?

Recently, while visiting my usual coffee shop on Nguyen Van Cu Street, I ran into Mr. Ba, the owner of a trucking company specializing in transporting construction materials. He excitedly showed off his shiny new International Driving Permit (IDP), fresh from his trip to Germany.

“Can I use this international license to drive in Vietnam?” he asked. “I heard it’s quite powerful, allowing you to drive all over the world.”

Mr. Ba’s question is a common one for many holders of an international driving permit. So, what’s the truth? Let’s explore this with XETAIHANOI.EDU.VN!

What is an International Driving Permit? Is it Valid in Vietnam?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that allows you to drive in foreign countries. It’s a translation of your original driver’s license into multiple languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to verify your information.

However, an IDP is not a standalone driving license. It’s only valid when presented alongside your original driver’s license from your home country.

So, is an IDP valid in Vietnam?

The answer is NO. Currently, Vietnam is not a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so it does not recognize an IDP as a valid driver’s license.

Why You Shouldn’t Drive in Vietnam with an IDP

No matter how “impressive” your IDP might be, driving in Vietnam without a valid Vietnamese driver’s license will result in severe penalties. Specifically:

• Fines ranging from 4,000,000 VND to 6,000,000 VND for driving a car (including trucks) without a valid driver’s license.
• Vehicle impoundment for 7 days to 1 month.

Therefore, to avoid unnecessary trouble, you should convert your IDP to a Vietnamese driver’s license before driving in Vietnam.

Important Notes for Driving in Vietnam

• You need to convert your IDP to a Vietnamese driver’s license at the designated authorities.
• The conversion process is relatively simple and quick.
• You can find more detailed information on the website of the Vietnam Directorate for Roads or contact XE TẢI HÀ NỘI for free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions about IDPs in Vietnam

1. I’m a foreign tourist and want to drive in Vietnam for a short period. What documents do I need?

You need a valid IDP along with your original driver’s license from your home country. Your stay must not exceed the duration specified on your visa or visa-exempt entry documents.

2. I’m a Vietnamese citizen residing abroad with an IDP. Can I drive in Vietnam permanently?

You cannot use an IDP to drive in Vietnam permanently. You must convert it to a Vietnamese driver’s license to be legally permitted to drive.

Buy Quality Trucks – Visit XE TẢI HÀ NỘI

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• Hino Trucks: https://xetaihanoi.edu.vn/gia-xe-howo/
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At XE TẢI HÀ NỘI, you will receive:

• Dedicated and professional consultation.
• The most competitive prices on the market.
• Support for low-interest installment payments with quick and easy procedures.

Contact us immediately via hotline: 0987.654.321 or visit our website: xetaihanoi.edu.vn for more details.

Exchanging an International Driver's License

Truck Feng Shui – Choosing a Truck that Matches Your Destiny for Prosperity

Vietnamese people value Feng Shui, especially when purchasing a truck – a significant asset closely tied to work and business. Choosing a truck that aligns with one’s destiny and age is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the owner.

According to Feng Shui expert Le Van An, author of “Car Feng Shui,” choosing a car color based on one’s element is crucial. For example, people of the Metal element should choose white, yellow, or silver-gray cars; those of the Wood element should opt for green, black, or navy blue cars…

Besides, you should also pay attention to the license plate number. According to popular belief, a beautiful license plate contains lucky numbers like 6, 8, 9; and avoids unlucky numbers like 4, 7.

Truck on the Road

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has answered your question, “Is an International Driving Permit valid in Vietnam?” Be a wise road user and comply with traffic laws to ensure your safety and that of the community.

Don’t forget to visit XE TẢI HÀ NỘI at: No. 123, Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi or our branches in other districts such as: Cau Giay, Thanh Xuan, Ha Dong, Long Bien, Tay Ho… for the best service experience.

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