Vietnam’s 2023 Drunk Driving Penalties for Cars

LONG

08/02/2025

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Driving under the influence of alcohol poses significant risks of traffic accidents. To raise public awareness and deter drunk driving, Vietnam has implemented stricter penalties for driving under the influence. This article provides detailed information about the latest car drunk driving penalties in Vietnam, helping you understand the legal regulations and your responsibilities as a driver.

Drunk Driving Penalties for Cars Under Decree 100/2019/NĐ-CP

Decree 100/2019/NĐ-CP, effective from January 1st, 2020, clearly stipulates the penalties for drunk driving for car drivers as follows:

1. For drivers of cars (including passenger cars – class B1, B2 and trucks, vehicles carrying 9 people or less):

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)	Fine (VND)	Additional Penalties
0 – 50 mg/100 ml or 0.25 mg/l	16,000,000 – 18,000,000	License suspension for 16-18 months
50 – 80 mg/100 ml or 0.25 – 0.4 mg/l	30,000,000 – 40,000,000	License suspension for 22-24 months
Above 80 mg/100 ml or above 0.4 mg/l	40,000,000 – 60,000,000	License suspension for 20-24 months

2. For drivers of trucks (over 3,500 kg), vehicles carrying more than 9 people (including the driver):

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)	Fine (VND)	Additional Penalties
0 – 50 mg/100 ml or 0.25 mg/l	17,000,000 – 20,000,000	License suspension for 16-18 months
50 – 80 mg/100 ml or 0.25 – 0.4 mg/l	32,000,000 – 40,000,000	License suspension for 22-24 months
Above 80 mg/100 ml or above 0.4 mg/l	40,000,000 – 80,000,000	License suspension for 20-24 months

In addition to fines, drivers who violate BAC limits are also subject to additional penalties such as:

Driver’s license suspension: The suspension period depends on the BAC level.
Vehicle impoundment: The violating vehicle will be impounded to serve the investigation and handling process.
Criminal prosecution: In cases of causing serious traffic accidents, the driver may be prosecuted for criminal liability.

Important Notes on Drunk Driving Regulations

Penalties apply to the driver, regardless of whether they are the owner of the vehicle.
The driver is responsible for proving that they did not violate BAC limits.
Refusal to take a BAC test is also penalized as a BAC violation.

Consequences of Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a leading cause of traffic accidents, resulting in loss of life and property. Specifically:

Impaired judgment: Alcohol directly affects the nervous system, making it difficult for the driver to concentrate, react slowly, and lose control of speed and safe distance.
Loss of vehicle control: The higher the BAC, the lower the ability to control the vehicle, leading to the risk of losing control and causing accidents.
Endangering oneself and the community: Traffic accidents caused by drunk driving not only endanger the driver but also affect the lives and health of other road users.

Advice from Experts

According to Mr. Nguyen Van A, a traffic expert at the Institute of Transport Science and Technology, “To ensure safety for themselves and the community, people need to raise their awareness of complying with the Road Traffic Law, absolutely not driving after drinking alcohol, even a small amount.”

Conclusion

Tightening regulations on drunk driving penalties for cars is a necessary measure to reduce traffic accidents and protect the lives and property of people. Be a responsible road user, say no to alcohol when driving!

Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Penalties for Cars

Can I be penalized for drunk driving even if I only drink one can of beer?

Yes, even a small amount of alcohol can affect your driving ability. The penalty is based on the BAC, not the amount of alcohol consumed.
What if I refuse to take a BAC test?

You have the right to refuse a BAC test. However, refusal will be penalized similarly to a BAC violation.
Can I be penalized for drunk driving if I am driving someone else’s car?

Yes. The penalty applies to the driver, regardless of whether they are the owner of the vehicle.
What can I do to avoid being penalized for drunk driving?

The best way to avoid being penalized is not to drink alcohol when driving. Use public transport, a taxi, or have someone else drive if you have been drinking.
Can drunk driving penalties change in the future?

Yes. Drunk driving regulations may be adjusted over time to suit the actual situation and the goal of reducing traffic accidents.

Want to learn more about other traffic regulations?

Learn about 2019 car drunk driving penalties before Decree 100/2019/NĐ-CP took effect.
Refer to car warning signs to ensure safe driving.
See more information about highway design textbooks for a better understanding of traffic infrastructure.

Contact Us

For assistance, please contact Phone Number: 0968239999, Email: [email protected] Or visit us at: TT36 – CN9 Road, Tu Liem Industrial Zone, Phuong Canh Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. We have a 24/7 customer service team.