Decoding Vietnamese License Plates: A Guide to Regional Codes

“A license plate is the face of its owner” is a common saying among Vietnamese truck drivers, and it’s true! Each sequence of numbers and letters on a license plate is not just an identification marker but also holds intriguing information about the vehicle’s origin, local culture, and perhaps even stories from the road. Today, let’s decipher the meaning of license plates across Vietnam with xetaihanoi.edu.vn!

Why Understanding Regional License Plates Matters

Have you ever been curious about the numbers and letters on a passing vehicle? Or perhaps spotted a familiar license plate in a faraway place? Understanding regional license plates offers more than just identification:

• Regional Identification: Easily pinpoint a vehicle’s origin, allowing for culturally sensitive interactions.
• Knowledge Expansion: Learn about the license plate allocation system and vehicle classifications.
• Information Retrieval: Assist in looking up vehicle and owner information when needed.
• Auspicious Plate Selection: Many believe that certain license plate numbers bring good luck and prosperity.

The “Good Car, Good Plate” Concept in Vietnamese Culture

The Vietnamese saying “Durability lies with the user” emphasizes the importance of proper care. However, when it comes to vehicles, having a “good car with a good plate” is also highly valued. A visually appealing, memorable, and feng shui-compliant license plate is considered a “protective talisman,” ensuring safety and smooth travels for the owner.

Truck driving on the road

Deconstructing Vietnamese License Plates

General License Plate Structure

Current Vietnamese license plates adhere to the National Technical Regulation QCVN 41:2019/BGTVT. The general structure includes:

• Province/City Code: The first two letters indicate the province or centrally-governed city where the vehicle is registered.
• Serial Number: A 4-5 digit number representing the vehicle’s registration sequence.
• Vehicle Class Code: The final letter (A, B, C, etc.) denotes the vehicle type.

License Plate Codes Across Vietnam

Below is a table of license plate codes for provinces and cities across Vietnam, updated as of 2023:

Note: This table provides a general overview. For detailed and accurate information, please refer to the Vietnam Register website.

Spirituality and Feng Shui in License Plate Selection

Many Vietnamese believe that choosing a feng shui-compliant license plate will bring good luck, prosperity, and safety on all journeys.

• Lucky Numbers: Numbers like 3, 6, 8, and 9 are often considered auspicious, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
• Elementally Compatible Numbers: Depending on an individual’s birth element, certain numbers may be more harmonious and beneficial.

Man inspecting a license plate

However, these are cultural beliefs and lack scientific evidence. Choosing a license plate should primarily be based on personal preference and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Regional License Plates

1. How can I accurately determine a vehicle’s origin based on its license plate?

Besides the license plate code, you can refer to the inspection sticker and vehicle registration documents for accurate origin information.

2. What role does a license plate play in buying or selling a used car?

An appealing and memorable license plate can be a positive factor, potentially increasing the vehicle’s resale value.

3. Can I choose my own license plate number?

Currently, you can register b