Driving in Vietnam? Make sure you're legal
The International Guide
You’ve booked your beast at 4WD Vietnam, your gear is packed, and the Northeast loop is calling your name. But there’s one last thing: staying legal behind the wheel.
Let’s be honest: driving in Vietnam can feel like Mario Kart in survival mode. However, there are strict rules in place. Whether you’re coming from Paris, Sydney, New York, or Tel Aviv, here is everything you need to know to drive legally.
The convention match : 1968 vs. 1949
This is the most critical and technical point. Vietnam has ratified the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Translation: To be 100% legal, you must possess an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued according to the 1968 convention. The problem is that international permits such as IAA, AAA, etc. are NOT recognized. Only the 1968 PIP is valid. If your country has not signed this convention (USA, Canada, Japan, Australia…), you cannot drive legally as a tourist
In other words, if you are American or Australian, check which document your administration issues to you. For Europeans, most modern ICPs follow the 1968 standard.
We summarize for you:
| Option | What it involves | Who can do it |
|---|---|---|
| International Permit (1968) | Your national license + a 1968 IDP | Tourists (< 3 months) |
| Vietnamese License | Conversion or passing an exam | Residents (> 3 months) |
For those who frown: PIP 1968… Whazzat? This is the International Driving Permit according to the 1968 Vienna Convention.
This is not a translation, nor a permit in its own right.
It is an official multilingual booklet that validates your national license abroad. It is valid for a maximum of 3 years, but only if accompanied by your original license. No matter your nationality, the International Permit is not a stand-alone document. You must imperatively present the two documents in case of control (your original national license and the international license).
Let’s summarize everything for you by region:
| Origin | National License valid alone? | IDP Required? | Important Note |
| Europe (EU/Swiss) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (1968 Model) | Very easy to obtain before departure. |
| Australia / NZ | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Ensure it is the “1968 Vienna” model. |
| USA / Canada | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Warning: US IDPs are often “1949 Geneva.” |
| Israel | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Israeli licenses are modern, but IDP is mandatory. |
| ASEAN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Specific agreements between SE Asian countries. |
Which category for your adventure?
- Category B1/B2: For our customers who prefer the comfort and power of a 4×4.
- Category A2: For large-capacity motorcycles (> 175cc), essential for the Trail
- Category A1: For motorcycles and scooters from 50cc to 175cc.
Did you know? Below 50cc, no permit is required. But between us, crossing the northern mountains in 50cc is a bit like wanting to climb Everest in flip-flops: it’s brave, but you won’t go very far!5.
Why bother with paperwork?
Let’s be honest, many travelers drive without a valid license. But that’s not really the best idea.
Some may argue that the vast majority of rental agencies never (or very rarely) ask for a license, which is unfortunately true, but you are responsible. When it comes to off-roading, there’s no such thing as zero risk. Having a valid license isn’t just a matter of avoiding a fine (~$200 and having your vehicle impounded for 10–15 days). And despite what you may hear, checks are frequent on tourist routes.
Insurance is another critical issue. Even if the police sometimes turn a blind eye, don’t take chances with insurance. In the event of an accident, if you don’t have a valid license in Vietnam, your travel insurance (Chapka, ACS, etc.) will refuse to cover medical expenses. And the bill can quickly add up. Not to mention the possibility of legal action.
Our 4x4s are always insured, but you, you must be legally entitled to drive in order to be covered. Therefore, compulsory civil liability insurance for all vehicles is non-negotiable.
For a deeper dive, check out the full dossier by our parent company, Mr Linh’s Adventures :
International Driving Permit for Vietnam.
Ready to hit the road? Discover our fleet and head out with peace of mind!