Vietnam Car Headlight Fines: 2023 Update

Vietnam Car Headlight Fines: 2023 Update

09/02/2025
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Last month, Mr. Tuan – a long-time truck driver in Cau Giay, Hanoi – narrowly avoided a fine for forgetting to turn on his headlights while entering the Kim Lien Tunnel. Luckily, he noticed in time and turned them on, escaping a potential penalty. So, what are the fines for driving without headlights in Vietnam? Let’s find out with Xe Tai Ha Noi!

How Much is the Fine for Driving Without Headlights in Vietnam?

Following traffic regulations regarding car headlights is crucial for ensuring both personal safety and avoiding fines. So, how much is the fine for not turning on your headlights?

According to Decree 100/2019/ND-CP on administrative sanctions in the field of road and railway traffic:

  • For cars and trucks under 3.5 tons: The fine ranges from 800,000 to 1,000,000 VND for failing to turn on low-beam headlights when driving in tunnels, on curves, at intersections, or in weather conditions that limit visibility.
  • For trucks 3.5 tons and over, tractors, trailers, and semi-trailers: The fine ranges from 1,000,000 to 1,200,000 VND for failing to turn on low-beam headlights in the aforementioned situations.

In addition, drivers can also have their driver’s license suspended for 1 to 3 months if they cause an accident due to this violation.

A truck driver getting a traffic ticket for not turning on headlightsA truck driver getting a traffic ticket for not turning on headlights

Summary of Fines for Driving Without Headlights

Vehicle Type Fine Amount Driver’s License Suspension
Cars, trucks under 3.5 tons 800,000 – 1,000,000 VND 1 – 3 months (if causing an accident)
Trucks 3.5 tons and over, tractors, trailers, semi-trailers 1,000,000 – 1,200,000 VND 1 – 3 months (if causing an accident)

When Are You Required to Turn On Your Headlights?

According to the Road Traffic Law, drivers must turn on their low-beam headlights in the following cases:

  • From 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM: This period is considered nighttime, with limited visibility, requiring headlights for safety.
  • When driving in tunnels: The lighting in tunnels is dim, and headlights improve visibility and situational awareness.
  • When driving on curves or at intersections with limited visibility: Headlights help other vehicles see your car from a distance, preventing collisions.
  • During inclement weather: Fog, heavy rain, strong winds, etc., all reduce visibility, requiring headlights for safe driving.

A car driving in the rain with headlights turned onA car driving in the rain with headlights turned on

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I forgot to turn on my headlights when entering a tunnel. How much will I be fined?

The fine for not turning on headlights in a tunnel is 800,000 – 1,000,000 VND for cars and 1,000,000 – 1,200,000 VND for trucks 3.5 tons and over.

2. Can I use fog lights instead of low-beam headlights?

According to regulations, fog lights should only be used in foggy conditions with visibility under 50 meters. Using fog lights in normal conditions can blind oncoming drivers and result in a fine of 800,000 – 1,000,000 VND.

3. How can I avoid being fined for not turning on my headlights?

To avoid this fine, develop a habit of checking your headlights before driving and always comply with headlight regulations.

Buy Reliable Trucks at Xe Tai Ha Noi

Are you looking to buy a truck? Come to Xe Tai Ha Noi – the leading provider of quality and reliable trucks in Hanoi. We offer a wide range of trucks from renowned brands such as Hino, Isuzu, Hyundai, and Thaco at the most competitive prices in the market.

Contact Xe Tai Ha Noi:

  • Showroom: [Hanoi showroom address]
  • Hotline: [hotline phone number]

Conclusion

We hope this article has answered your question about fines for driving without headlights in Vietnam. Always obey traffic laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

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