Decoding Vietnam’s License Plates: Meaning and All You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered about the sequence of numbers on a car license plate? Perhaps you’ve seen a “lucky” plate and questioned its significance, or maybe you’re simply curious about the meaning behind your own. This article will unravel the mysteries of Vietnam’s car license plates, exploring their meaning, how to read them, and their cultural connection to Feng Shui.

The Significance of Car License Plates

A car license plate is more than just a piece of metal; it’s the vehicle’s identification document, crucial for traffic management. For many, it also holds spiritual significance, believed to influence the owner’s fortune and destiny.

License Plates and Feng Shui

In Vietnamese folklore, each number carries a unique meaning. Choosing a “lucky” license plate, aligned with Feng Shui principles, is believed to attract good fortune and safety.

For instance, the numbers 39 (“minor god of wealth”) and 79 (“major god of wealth”) are often considered auspicious, promising prosperity. Conversely, numbers like 49 and 53 are generally associated with bad luck.

However, according to American Feng Shui expert Johnathan David, author of “Modern Feng Shui for a Successful Life”: “The meaning of numbers depends on various factors, including cultural and religious beliefs. No number inherently guarantees good or bad luck.”

A lucky Vietnamese license plate

How to Read a Vietnamese License Plate

Vietnamese car license plates are regulated by Appendix II of Circular No. 16/2018/TT-BCA. The structure consists of:

• Registration Code: A combination of letters and numbers indicating the province/city and district. For example, 29 represents Hanoi, while 51 represents Ho Chi Minh City.
• Serial Number: A 5-digit sequence, either randomly assigned or chosen by the owner.