Essential documents for expats driving in Vietnam

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Introduction

Having legal documents for expats to drive in Vietnam is crucial to avoid juristic issues and ensure a smooth experience on the roads. According to the provisions of the Vietnam Road Traffic Law, any expat or Vietnamese driving a vehicle registered in Vietnam on the territory of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam must carry all of the following documents:

1. A Valid Vietnamese Driving License

1.1. A Vietnamese driving license for expats is required to drive in Vietnam

In Vietnam, a valid Vietnamese driving license is mandatory for expatriates who intend to operate a motor vehicle within the country. While international or foreign driving licenses may not get accepted, obtaining a Vietnamese license ensures compliance with local regulations and uninterrupted driving privileges due to the following reasons:

Legal Requirement: Driving without a valid license in Vietnam is illegal and can lead to fines, penalties, or even legal issues.
Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies require a valid Vietnamese license for coverage. If you’re involved in an accident and don’t have a local license, your insurance might be invalidated.
Convenience: Having a Vietnamese license makes renting easier and allows you to drive legally throughout the country.
Local Traffic Rules: Obtaining a license involves learning and understanding Vietnamese traffic rules, making you a safer driver on the roads.

1.2. How to get a Vietnamese driver’s license for expats?

There are two main ways to get a Vietnamese driving license:

The first way: Convert driving license to Vietnamese:

a) Eligibility:
– You have a valid driving license from your home country.
– You have A Temporary Resident Card (TRC) in Vietnam which is valid for at least three months.

b) Process:
– Gather required documents:

Foreign driving license notarized translation
Passport and Temporary Resident Card (TRC)
Health certificate
Application form

– Get your foreign license translated and notarized.
– Submit the documents to the Department of Transport in your province or city.
– Pay the required fees.
– Receive your Vietnamese driving license.

The second way: Take a Vietnamese Theoretical test and a Practical test:

a) Eligibility:
– You don’t have a foreign driving license or your license is not eligible for conversion

b) Process:
– Enroll in a driving school and complete the required training.
– Take and pass the theoretical and practical driving tests.
– Receive your Vietnamese driving license.

By fully meeting the driving license requirements for expats in Vietnam, you ensure that you are driving legally and safely, complying with expatriate driving regulations in Vietnam and enjoying the convenience of personal transportation.

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1.3. You can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Vietnam

In Vietnam, only the 1968 version of the IDP is accepted. This is because Vietnam is a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, which established the standards for IDPs.

Valid IDPs: If your home country is also a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention, and you have obtained an IDP in the 1968 format, it will be accepted for driving in Vietnam.
Invalid IDPs: If your home country is not a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention, or if your IDP is in the 1949 format, it will not be recognized as valid in Vietnam.

Some countries that issue IDPs in the 1968 format include: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Austria, Ireland.

Because traffic laws and driving styles in each country are different, and the validity of a motorbike driving license in Vietnam is lifetime, meanwhile, an IDP from another country is valid for a maximum of three years or until the expiration of your original driving license, whichever comes first. This is according to Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT issued by the Ministry of Transport

If you do not pay attention to the expiration of your IDP, you may violate traffic laws in Vietnam, be fined and leave a bad record in Vietnam.

2. Passport and Visa (or documents proving legal residence in Vietnam)

For expats driving in Vietnam, it’s essential to carry documents that prove their identity and legal status in the country. While a passport and visa are the most common documents for this purpose, there are other documents that can serve as proof of legal residence for those living in Vietnam for an extended period.

Notice: Ensure that all documents you carry are valid and have not expired.

Here’s a breakdown of the documents that can be used to prove legal residence while driving in Vietnam:

Passport and Valid Visa: This is the standard combination for most foreigners visiting or staying in Vietnam temporarily.
Temporary Residence Card (TRC): For those who have obtained a TRC, this card serves as proof of legal residence.
Permanent Residence Card (PRC): If you have been granted permanent residency in Vietnam, the PRC is your official proof of legal status and can be used instead of a visa.
Exemption Certificate: In some cases, certain foreigners might be exempt from visa requirements. If you have an exemption certificate, it can be used as proof of legal residence.

By carrying the appropriate documents, you can drive confidently in Vietnam, knowing that you have proof of your legal status in the country.

3. Vehicle Registration Documents:

Possession of valid vehicle registration documents while driving in Vietnam is a legal imperative, fulfilling several critical functions:

Notice: Ensure that all documents you carry are valid and have not expired.

Ownership and Registration Verification: Vehicle registration certificate unequivocally establishes the legal ownership and registration status of the vehicle. This is crucial in preventing theft and unauthorized use, safeguarding both individual owners and public safety.
Vehicle Identification: Detailed information within the registration documents, including the make, model, year, engine and chassis numbers, serve as a unique identifier for the vehicle. This is indispensable in cases of accidents, traffic violations, or any incidents requiring accurate vehicle identification.
Insurance Compliance: In some instances, the registration documents may be linked to the vehicle’s insurance records, facilitating rapid verification of mandatory insurance coverage in case of accidents or claims.

Only original registration documents are considered valid for inspection purposes. Safeguarding these documents against loss or damage is paramount. In the event of a change in vehicle ownership, updating the registration documents is a legal obligation.

4. Third-Party Liability Insurance

Third-Party Liability (TPL) Insurance in Vietnam is mandatory for all motor vehicle owners. It protects them from financial liability for damages or injuries caused to others (third parties) in an accident.

TPL insurance covers bodily injury or death and property damage of third parties. It’s mandatory to ensure victims receive compensation, promote responsible vehicle ownership, and comply with the law.

You can buy TPL insurance from various providers in Vietnam, including MSIG, Liberty Insurance, Bao Viet, and others. When choosing a policy, consider coverage limits, price, the insurer’s reputation, and additional benefits.

By having TPL insurance, you drive with peace of mind, knowing you’re financially protected in case of an accident.

Translation and Notarization: If your documents are not in Vietnamese, you may need to get them translated and notarized by a recognized authority.
Police Checks: Be prepared for potential police checks and present your documents confidently.
Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese traffic rules and regulations to avoid fines and penalties.

By ensuring you have all the necessary documents and adhering to traffic laws, you can enjoy a safe and legal driving experience in Vietnam.

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