Vietnam Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Vietnam Driving Licence: Apply a driver’s licence in Vietnam allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle on public roads. Here is a comprehensive guide on applying for, renewing, replacing, and updating your Vietnamese driver’s licence.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying

To be eligible for a driver’s licence in Vietnam, you must:

  • Be minimum 18 years old for motorcycle and 20 years for car licence
  • Pass theory and practical driving tests
  • Provide documents like ID card, health certificate, residence proof
  • Pay applicable licence fees

Types of Driving Licences in Vietnam

Vietnam issues the following licence categories:

  • A1 – Motorbikes under 175 cc
  • A2 – Motorbikes over 175 cc
  • A3 – Automobiles up to 9 seats
  • A4 – Vehicles over 10 seats, trucks
  • B1, B2 – Professional driver licences

How to Apply for Vietnam Driving Licence

Here is the step-by-step process to obtain a new driver’s licence in Vietnam:

  • Study road signs, rules, theory from handbook
  • Get a medical checkup and certificate
  • Take computerized theory test at licence office
  • Pass test to obtain learner’s permit valid for 6 months
  • Practice driving under supervision
  • Book and take the road driving test
  • Pass test to get full plastic licence card

Renewing a Vietnam Driver’s Licence

To renew an expiring Vietnamese driver’s licence:

  • Apply within 30 days of licence expiry
  • Provide passport photos, old licence, medical certificate
  • Pay renewal fees
  • Get new 10-year licence after approval
  • Check all details like name, date of birth on new licence

Replacing Lost/Damaged Driver’s Licence

If you lose your driver’s licence or it gets destroyed, here is how to replace it in Vietnam:

  • Report loss/damage to police and get a certificate
  • Submit application for replacement at licence office
  • Provide police report, ID proof, passport size photos
  • Pay duplicate licence fees
  • Collect the replacement licence printed card

Updating Address on Vietnam Driver’s Licence

To change your address on the driver’s licence in Vietnam:

  • Get proof of new address like utility bill, lease deed
  • Fill address change form and submit to licence office
  • Provide proof of new address
  • Pay fees to update address
  • Get licence card showing updated address

Booking Appointment for Driving Tests

Follow these steps to book driving test slots in Vietnam:

  • Verify you meet eligibility criteria
  • Download application form online
  • Fill details like ID number, phone, email
  • Select preferred test dates and slots
  • Submit form and fees at licence office
  • Get test booking confirmation via email/text

Paying Traffic Violation Fines

As a driver in Vietnam, you must pay any traffic fines:

  • Fines for offenses like speeding, red light violation
  • Can be paid at police stations, banks, online
  • Non payment leads to penalties, licence suspension
  • Minor fines are 200,000-400,000 VND
  • Major fines are 400,000-600,000 VND

Other Vietnam Driver’s Licence Services

  • Licence renewal and replacement
  • Updating personal details on licence
  • Verification of licence details
  • Obtaining driving record abstract
  • Getting international driving permit

Frequently Asked Questions on Vietnam Driver’s Licences

Here are some common queries on getting a driver’s licence in Vietnam:

1. What is the minimum age for getting a driving licence in Vietnam?

The minimum age is 18 years for motorcycle and 20 years for car licences in Vietnam.

2. What documents do I need to apply for a learner’s permit?

You need a valid ID card, health certificate, photos and fee payment to apply for a learner’s permit.

3. How long is the learner’s permit valid for in Vietnam?

The learner’s permit is valid for 6 months. You must pass the road test within 6 months to obtain your full licence.

4. What are the fees for getting a new driver’s licence in Vietnam?

The fees are:
A1, A2 – 100,000 VND
A3 – 200,000 VND
A4 – 300,000 VND
B1, B2 – 500,000 VND

5. Can I use an international driving permit to drive in Vietnam?

Yes, an international driving permit along with your national licence is valid for up to 3 months of driving in Vietnam.

6. How do I verify if a Vietnam driver’s licence is valid and authentic?

You can verify licence details at the provincial police traffic management department using the licence number.

7. What is the penalty for driving without a licence in Vietnam?

Driving without a valid licence can lead to fines up to 16,000,000 VND and licence suspension for 4-6 months.

8. How do I change the address on my Vietnam driver’s licence?

Submit the address change application form along with proof to the licence office. Pay 20,000 VND fees to update and get a new licence.

9. Can I renew my Vietnamese driver’s licence online?

No, currently there is no online renewal facility. Licence renewal is done in person at the licensing authority.

10. How much are traffic fines in Vietnam?

Minor traffic fines range from 200,000 – 400,000 VND. Major fines are between 400,000 – 600,000 VND.