Foreigners Seeking a Vietnamese Driver’s License: What You Must Meet

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a foreigner legally residing, working, or studying in Vietnam.

• Must meet age, health, and educational standards—for example, at least 18 years old for motorbike licenses (A1, A2), and higher minimums for larger vehicle classes.

• Must be proficient in Vietnamese, as theoretical exams are conducted solely in Vietnamese.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following directly to a driving school:

• Completed application form for learning and testing.

• Passport copy valid for at least 6 months, plus visa or residence permit (temporary or permanent).

• Medical certificate from a licensed medical facility.

• Passport-sized photos (e.g., 3×4).

If You Already Hold a Foreign License

Two paths are available:

1. License Conversion
   If your foreign driver’s license is valid and appropriate, you may convert it to a Vietnamese license without retaking tests.

2. Taking the Test in Vietnam
   If you do not hold a valid foreign license, you must register, study, and pass both theoretical and practical exams conducted in Vietnamese, just like Vietnamese citizens.

Additional Important Notes

• International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued abroad under the 1968 Convention may be valid in Vietnam, depending on your nationality. Not all countries’ IDPs are accepted.

• International licenses issued by private organizations (such as IAA) are not recognized and considered invalid.

Summary Table

Foreign nationals must fulfill legal residency, health, and language requirements, submit complete documentation, and may either convert an existing valid license or undergo full testing. International licenses are only conditionally valid—so checking details in advance is essential.