Exchange Driving License in Vietnam: Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Introduction
If you are a foreigner living, working, or staying long-term in Vietnam, you may exchange your foreign driving license for a valid Vietnamese one. This process is officially recognized by the Ministry of Public Security and allows you to drive legally without having to take the local driving exam.
✅ Exchange your valid national license to a Vietnamese one without retaking driving tests.

1. Who Can Exchange a Driving License in Vietnam?
👤 Foreign Nationals:
- Holding a national driver license (not only IDP)
- Having a passport and valid residence card/visa in Vietnam
👤 Vietnamese Citizens Returning from Abroad:
- Possess a valid foreign license
- Can prove their residency abroad during license issuance
⚠️ International Driving Permit (IDP) alone cannot be exchanged.
2. Required Documents
Document |
Foreigners |
Overseas Vietnamese |
Original foreign driving license |
✔ |
✔ |
Vietnamese translation (notarized) |
✔ |
✔ |
Passport |
✔ |
✔ |
Residence card/visa in Vietnam |
✔ |
✔ |
ID card/CCCD (if Vietnamese) |
❌ |
✔ |
Medical certificate (for car licenses) |
✔ |
✔ |
Legalization (if required) |
Maybe |
Maybe |
💡 Legalization depends on country of origin. Some may require embassy confirmation.
3. How to Exchange a Foreign License in Vietnam
Step 1: Free Document Check
- Send scans/photos of documents to Zalo: +84 944 526 862
Step 2: Translation & Notarization
- Translate your foreign license to Vietnamese
- Have it notarized for official use
Step 3: Legalization (if needed)
- Through your consulate or Vietnam’s Department of External Relations
Step 4: Submit Application
- At the Department of Transport or designated office of the Ministry of Public Security
- Sign form, take photo, submit documents
Step 5: Receive Vietnamese License
- Processing time: 7–10 working days
- Pick up in person or get it delivered
4. Validity and License Type After Exchange
- Foreigners: License valid until visa/residence card expiration
- Vietnamese citizens: Up to 10 years validity (category B2)
- Most common issued: B2 – manual and automatic cars, eligible for business driving
5. Key Points to Remember
- Only national licenses are accepted (not just IDP)
- License must be clear, undamaged, valid
- Each province may vary slightly in paperwork – always verify in advance
6. Contact for Support
📞 Hotline/Zalo: +84 944 526 862
📍 Address: No. 4 Quang Trung, Nguyen Trai, Ha Dong, Hanoi
✉️ Email: contact@doibanglaixe.com.vn
✅ We handle translations, notarization, legalization, application submission – full support with no hidden fees
Exchange your driving license in Vietnam quickly and legally – let us help simplify the entire process!