Your Guide to Getting a Driver’s License in Vietnam

“Steady hands, a thousand miles of peace” – Nguyen Van A, a veteran driving instructor at Sao Viet Driving School, shared. Obtaining a driver’s license is not only about confidently taking the wheel but also demonstrating responsibility to yourself and the community.

However, the journey to acquiring a driver’s license can be daunting for many due to regulations, procedures, and the tests themselves. Understanding this, this article provides a detailed guide on the steps involved in obtaining a car driver’s license, from A to Z, helping you feel more confident on your journey to conquer this “universal permit.”

The Steps to Getting a Driver’s License: A Detailed Process

1. Choosing the Right License Class

The first and most crucial step is determining the class of driver’s license you wish to obtain. In Vietnam, the most common are classes B1 and B2.

• Class B1: For passenger cars with fewer than 9 seats, pickup trucks, vans with a payload under 3.5 tons, and specialized vehicles with an unladen weight not exceeding 3.5 tons.
• Class B2: For passenger cars with up to 9 seats, trucks with a payload of 3.5 tons or more, and specialized vehicles with an unladen weight of 3.5 tons or more.

Choose the license class that best suits your vehicle needs!

2. Preparing the Application Documents

The application documents for a driver’s license include:

• Application form for driving training and testing.
• Health certificate as required.
• Copy of your ID card/citizen identity card/passport.
• Two 3×4 passport photos (taken within the last 6 months).

You can submit your application directly to driving schools or online through their websites.

3. Participating in the Theory Training Course

After completing the registration process, you will be scheduled to participate in a theory training course. This course provides knowledge of traffic laws, safe driving techniques, and traffic culture.

4. Driving Practice

This is the most crucial part of the licensing process. You will learn and practice basic to advanced driving skills, including:

• Closed-course exercises: Starting, stopping, reversing, parking, …
• Road driving: Driving on actual roads and obeying traffic laws.

The minimum required driving practice time is:

• Class B1: 38 hours of practice
• Class B2: 52 hours of practice

You can visualize typical closed-course exercises through the illustration below:

A car driver is practicing driving skills on a designated practice area.

5. Driver’s License Examination

The driver’s license examination consists of two parts:

• Theory test: A multiple-choice test on a computer.
• Practical test: Performing exercises on a closed course and driving on public roads.

To pass the exam, you must meet the score requirements and not commit any serious violations during the test.

6. Receiving Your Driver’s License

After passing the exam, you will be issued a temporary driver’s license. Your official driver’s license will be sent to your registered address within one month.

Important Notes When Applying for a Driver’s License

• Choose a reputable driving school with experienced instructors.
• Listen attentively, remember, and practice the driving skills you learn thoroughly.
• Always stay calm and confident during the test.
• Refer to additional materials and driving instruction videos on the “Xe Tải Hà Nội” website (https://xetaihanoi.edu.vn/) to reinforce your knowledge and skills.

Frequently Asked Questions about Driver’s License Tests

1. How much does it cost to get a driver’s license?

The cost of obtaining a driver’s license can vary depending on the driving school and the license class you choose. You can inquire about fees directly on the school’s website or contact them for detailed advice.

2. How long does it take to get a driver’s license?

The time it takes to get a driver’s license depends on the learning progress and the testing schedule of each center. Typically, you can complete the course and test in about 2-3 months.

3. Where can I take the driver’s license test in Hanoi?

There are many reputable driving schools in Hanoi, such as Sao Viet Driving School and Truong An Driving School. You can choose a center near your residence for convenient travel.