Vietnam Driving License Regulations: What You Need to Know

Vietnam Driving License Regulations: What You Need to Know

03/03/2025
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“Hey driver, I heard the traffic laws have changed, and the driver’s license regulations have also changed a lot, haven’t they?” Uncle Tu, a long-time truck driver, had just pulled into a roadside cafe. Before he could even take a sip of tea, a fellow driver bombarded him with questions. Indeed, new regulations regarding driver’s licenses are a hot topic that many people are concerned about, from experienced drivers like Uncle Tu to newcomers just starting their careers.

Major Change: Phase-Out of Paper Driving Licenses

Do you remember the thrill of receiving your hard-earned paper driving license after months of diligent study and practice? Now, that feeling will be even more “premium” as paper driving licenses have officially “retired,” making way for modern PET plastic cards. According to Mr. Nguyen Van An, a specialist at the Hanoi Department of Transportation, this conversion not only helps preserve the license for a longer period but also enhances security and reduces the risk of counterfeiting.

However, this transition has also caused concern for many. For instance, Ms. Ba, a grocery store owner in Cau Giay District, Hanoi, is struggling to understand the exchange procedure, wondering, “Do I have to retake the theoretical or practical exams?” Understanding these concerns, the new car speed regulations also clearly state the cases exempt from testing when converting to a PET license.

The “Matrix” of Driver’s License Classes: B2, C, D, E, FC…

Hearing this, many people are probably “overwhelmed” because the current system of driver’s license classes in Vietnam is indeed like a “matrix.” There are B2, C, D, E, FC licenses, each allowing the operation of different types of vehicles. Mr. Minh, a long-time driving instructor in Hanoi, shared, “Many students come here confused between B1 and B2 licenses, unsure which one they should pursue.”

To clarify for our readers, we provide a detailed table of common driver’s license classes:

Class Permitted Vehicle Types Notes
B1 Passenger vehicles up to 9 seats, trucks with a payload under 3.5 tons
B2 Passenger vehicles up to 9 seats, trucks with a payload up to 3.5 tons Required Documents for B2 Driver’s License
C Trucks over 3.5 tons, allowed to tow trailers and semi-trailers
D Passenger vehicles with more than 9 seats
E Vehicles towing trailers and semi-trailers (excluding container tractors)
FC Passenger vehicles with up to 9 seats, for commercial passenger transportation

Spirituality and Driving Licenses: A Universal Concern

“Fast cars, loud explosions” – Vietnamese people value spirituality, especially in matters related to safety, such as driving. It’s not uncommon to see lucky charms hanging in vehicles or drivers offering incense for a safe journey.

Besides adhering to the new driver’s license regulations, wouldn’t it be more reassuring to always have a steady hand, focus while driving, and “respect the law” – that is the most effective “protective amulet” for all drivers.

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