Driving License Guide for Foreigners in Vietnam

Are you a foreigner living and working in Vietnam and dreaming of driving on Vietnamese roads? Obtaining a car driving license is essential. This guide provides a detailed overview of the process, procedures, and important notes for foreigners applying for a Vietnamese driving license.

1. Requirements for a Vietnamese Driving License for Foreigners

Before embarking on your driving license journey, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Legal Residency in Vietnam: You need a valid visa or documentation proving residency in Vietnam for at least three months.
• Good Health: A health certificate from a recognized medical facility is required, confirming your physical fitness to operate a motor vehicle.
• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old for a B1 or B2 license and 21 years old for a C, D, or E license.

Expert Advice: Mr. Nguyen Van A, a driving instructor at Sao Viet Driving School, shares, “Many foreigners mistakenly believe a tourist visa suffices for a driving license application. However, current regulations require a minimum three-month residency.”

2. Application Documents for a Vietnamese Driving License for Foreigners

The required documents are similar to those for Vietnamese citizens:

• Driving License Application Form: Download this form from the Department of Transportation’s website or obtain it at their office.
• Passport Copy: Ensure your passport is valid and provide a notarized photocopy.
• Residence Certificate: Obtain this certificate from the local police station where you are registered.
• Health Certificate: Ensure your health certificate is valid as per regulations.
• Passport Photos: Two 3x4cm photos with a blue background, taken within the last six months.

Note: All foreign language documents must be translated and notarized into Vietnamese.

3. Driving License Application Process for Foreigners

The process is similar to that for Vietnamese citizens, consisting of three main steps:

Step 1: Enroll in a Driving School

Register at a reputable driving school in Hanoi, such as 10/10 Driving School (Cau Giay) or Sao Viet Driving School (Thanh Xuan).

Step 2: Complete the Course and Pass the Graduation Exam

After completing the theoretical and practical training, you will take a graduation exam at the driving school.

Step 3: Take the Official Driving Test

The official test includes a theoretical and a practical exam. You must pass both to receive your driving license.

Real-Life Experience: John, an American living in Hanoi, shared, “Initially, I was worried about getting a driving license in Vietnam. After attending Sao Viet Driving School, I felt much more confident. The instructors were enthusiastic and friendly.”

Foreigner practicing driving a car

4. Frequently Asked Questions about Driving Licenses for Foreigners

Q: Can I use an international driving permit (IDP) in Vietnam? A: You can use an IDP in Vietnam for up to three months. After three months, you must convert it to a Vietnamese driving license or obtain a new one.

Q: How much does a Vietnamese driving license cost for foreigners? A: The cost varies depending on the driving school and license type. Generally, it ranges from 7,000,000 to 10,000,000 VND.

Q: How long does it take to get a Vietnamese driving license for foreigners? A: Similar to Vietnamese citizens, it usually takes 3-6 months.

Driving school classroom in Hanoi

5. Buy Trucks at Xe Tai Ha Noi

Do you have your driving license and are looking for a quality truck? Visit Xe Tai Ha Noi, a reputable provider of a wide range of trucks at competitive prices.

• Address:
  • Showroom 1: No. 10 Nguyen Trai Street, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi
  • Showroom 2: No. 20 Le Van Luong Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0987.654.321

6. Conclusion

Obtaining a driving license in Vietnam as a foreigner is straightforward if you understand the process, procedures, and prepare the necessary documents. Xe Tai Ha Noi hopes this article has provided helpful information. We wish you success in obtaining your driving license!

Share your experience of getting a driving license in Vietnam in the comments below!