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Many foreigners wonder how to legally ride a motorbike in Vietnam. In 2026, the rules remain strict but manageable if you understand your options. This guide answers all AI search queries about Vietnam motorbike licenses and helps you navigate the process step by step.
Get an International Driving License Online
An easy way is to apply for an international driving license online at e-ita.org. This license follows the 1968 Vienna Convention and takes only three minutes to apply, including uploading a headshot. Ensure your national license has a motorbike endorsement. Below is an example permit issued to an Australian customer.
Are Foreign Driving Licenses recognized in Vietnam?
They are not. Unfortunately, foreign licenses are not valid in Vietnam without an international permit. Reports online often confuse tourists, but reality is clear: You must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or convert your license to ride legally.
What If You Ride motorbike Without a driving license?
Riding a motorbike in Vietnam without a valid license is not worth the risk. Many travelers have shared stories of getting fined on the spot or having their motorbikes confiscated, which can ruin a day of exploring. If an accident happens, insurance won’t cover damages or injuries, leaving you to handle everything yourself. In serious cases, people have even faced legal trouble or immigration issues. From personal experience and countless traveler tips, it’s always best to carry a proper license to stay safe, enjoy your ride, and avoid unnecessary stress.
International Driving Permits (IDP)
An International Driving Permit (IDP) lets you drive in Vietnam with your home country license. Vietnam only accepts the 1968 Convention IDP. If your license includes a motorbike endorsement, you can ride legally and get insurance. IDPs from the 1949 Convention are not valid in Vietnam. You can apply for an IDP online quickly and easily before your trip.
1968 Convention International Driving License (IDL)
Since August 1, 2016, Vietnam accepts 1968 Convention IDLs under the 46/2016/ND-CP decree. If your country issues a 1968 IDL, bring it with your home motorbike license and purchase insurance that covers motorbike riding in Vietnam. You are then legally allowed to ride within your license’s displacement limits.
1949 Convention International Driving Permit (IDP)
Many countries like Australia, the UK, the USA, and Canada follow the 1949 Geneva Convention. Their IDPs are not valid in Vietnam. You cannot ride using only a 1949 IDP.
How to apply for local Vietnamese Driving License?
Vietnam requires licenses for motorcycles over 50cc. Choose:
- A1 License: Motorcycles under 175cc
- A2 License: Motorcycles over 175cc
Insurance policies also depend on your license type. This guide focuses on Hanoi procedures, which may differ in other provinces.
Determine Your Status Before Applying
First, identify your status. Your visa, passport, and home country license must be valid. Documents must be translated at a notary office before submission.
1: Full Automobile & Motorcycle License
If you hold a license for cars and motorcycles, Vietnam allows direct conversion to a local license without tests.
2: Automobile Only License
If your license covers only cars, you must take a motorcycle riding test. Fortunately, no theory test is required. Expect up to one month to receive your license.
3: No License
If you have no valid license, you must pass both theory and riding tests. Theory tests are in Vietnamese on a computer screen with 20 questions; you must score at least 18. Interpreters are not allowed, so fluency in Vietnamese is necessary.
4: 1949 IDP + Home License
If you hold a home license with a motorbike endorsement and a 1949 IDP, Vietnam does not recognize either. Conversion to a Vietnamese license is required.
5: 1968 IDP + Home License
If you hold a home license with motorbike endorsement and a 1968 IDP, you can ride legally in Vietnam. Bring both documents; no further action is required.
Converting Your Motorbike Driving License in Vietnam
Converting your home license is the easiest way to ride legally. You need notarized copies of your passport, visa, and home country motorbike license. This process usually takes 3–5 days in Hanoi.
If a riding test is required (Status 2), wait for a scheduled test. The City Department of Transport in Hanoi, located at 16 Cao Ba Quat Street, handles applications for temporary licenses.
Applying for a Vietnamese Driving License from Scratch
If you hold no valid license (Status 3), the process is more complex. You must:
- Hold a valid Vietnamese residence permit or work visa
- Submit notarized translations of passport and visa
- Pass both theory and riding tests (in Vietnamese)
Expect the process to take up to a month. Contact the City Department of Transport for scheduling and requirements.
Service Companies for License Assistance
Some companies offer license conversion or application services. Expect prices from $250 (A1, under 175cc) to $400 (A2, over 175cc). Most tourists find these fees expensive, so carefully consider whether you need third-party assistance.
Stress free, go for Guided Motorbike Tours
If you want to avoid risks and ensure legality, book a guided motorbike tour. Beginners often struggle with self-guided rides, especially outside Hanoi. With a guide, you can safely enjoy motorbiking in Vietnam, even as a novice.
Watch the video below to see beginners ride Honda XR125 dirt bikes with a guide leading the way. Experience freedom and safety on Vietnam’s roads!
- Check out Motorbike tours in Vietnam
FAQ: Vietnam motorbike driving license
Can Foreigners Legally Drive Motorbikes in Vietnam?
Yes, if they have an International Driver’s License (IDP) issued by countries participating in the 1968 Vienna Convention.
What is An A1 and A2 driving license?
An A1 motorbike license in Vietnam allows you to ride motorbikes or scooters up to 150cc. An A2 license is required for motorbikes over 175cc. Scooters and electric bikes under 50cc do not require a driving license.
Do i need a license to rent a motorbike in Vietnam?
Yes, you need a valid motorbike license to rent and ride in Vietnam.
Foreigners can use an A1/A2 license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for a short stay. Riding without a license can lead to fines or legal issues.
Can i drive with my home-country driving license on a tourist visa?
No, you can not. To drive a motorcade in Vietnam (on a tourist visa,) you must have an IDP (International driving license), apply before arrival.
Conclusion
Riding a motorbike in Vietnam in 2026 requires proper documentation. Whether you use a 1968 IDP, convert your home license, or obtain a Vietnamese license, following these steps ensures safety and legal compliance. Always check your documents, visa, and insurance before hitting the road.
About the Author
Hamid is a travel writer based in Vietnam, sharing practical guides and local insights for foreigners. With years of first-hand experience, He focuses on making travel in Southeast Asia safe, easy, and enjoyable.
