Requirements for foreign drivers, vehicles operating in Vietnam

Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

Under the new decree, foreign tourists can now bring a variety of motor vehicles into Vietnam, including passenger cars, whether right-hand or left-hand drive, capable of carrying up to eight passengers (excluding the driver), mobile home vehicles, and two-wheeled motorcycles. Approval for them must be obtained through a Vietnamese international travel service enterprise.

For non-tourism purposes, foreign vehicles with right-hand drive are limited to passenger cars. Approval requires a diplomatic note from the relevant foreign diplomatic mission, consular office, or inter-governmental international organisation’s representative office in Vietnam, clearly stating the purpose of the vehicle's use.

All foreign motor vehicles operating in Vietnam must have a valid registration certificate and licence plate from their country of origin, along with a valid certificate of technical safety and environmental protection, or equivalent documentation issued by the relevant authorities of the country of registration, particularly for motor vehicles.

Foreign drivers must hold a valid passport, visa, or other internationally recognised travel documents, as well as a driver’s licence appropriate for the vehicle type. Notably, those entering Vietnam under the unilateral visa exemption policy must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months. Electronic visa holders must enter through designated international checkpoints and comply with Vietnam's immigration regulations.

Foreigners driving foreign vehicles in Vietnam must travel in a convoy, led by a guide vehicle suited to the convoy's transportation type. The convoy will be permitted to travel on specific routes, road sections, and during designated times, as outlined in the approval document issued by competent authorities.

Moreover, foreign drivers must be prepared to present essential documents upon request from local authorities. These include their passport or internationally recognised travel document, residence document in Vietnam, a valid driver’s licence, a certificate of technical safety and environmental protection for the vehicle, a valid vehicle registration certificate, a civil liability insurance certificate for the motor vehicle in Vietnam, and a customs declaration for temporarily imported or re-exported vehicles./.