How to Get a Vietnamese Driving License: Complete Guide 2025

Introduction

Whether you’re a foreigner living in Vietnam or a Vietnamese citizen looking to start driving, obtaining a Vietnamese driving license is essential for legal and safe mobility. This comprehensive 2025 guide will walk you through all options available, including taking a full driving course or converting a foreign license.

✅ Driving in Vietnam without a valid license is illegal and may result in fines or confiscation of your vehicle.

1. Who Needs a Vietnamese Driving License?

👤 Foreigners:

• Living or working in Vietnam long-term
• Hold a temporary or permanent residence permit
• Want to legally operate motorbikes or cars in Vietnam

👤 Vietnamese Citizens:

• From 18 years old for cars (B1/B2 license)
• From 16 years old for motorbikes under 175cc (A1 license)
• 18+ for motorbikes over 175cc (A2 license)

2. Two Ways to Get a Vietnamese License

Option 1: Take a Full Driving Course in Vietnam

This is for individuals who do not have a foreign license.

🛵 For Motorbike License (A1/A2):

• A1 (under 175cc): Theory + practical test
• A2 (over 175cc): Requires medical certificate and more rigorous testing

🚗 For Car License (B1/B2):

• Enroll in a certified driving school
• Complete theory and road practice (about 3–6 months)
• Pass the written and practical exams

Required Documents:

• ID card (for Vietnamese) or passport + visa (for foreigners)
• 6 passport-sized photos (3×4 cm)
• Health certificate
• Application form (provided by the school)

Option 2: Convert Your Foreign Driving License

If you already have a valid driver license from another country.

Steps:

1. Translate and notarize your license
2. Legalize if necessary (depending on your country)
3. Submit application to the Ministry of Public Security
4. Receive a Vietnamese license (usually within 7–10 working days)

💡 Only valid national licenses can be converted. IDP (International Driving Permit) cannot be used for conversion.

3. Where to Apply for Driving License or Conversion

• Department of Transport (Sở Giao Thông Vận Tải)
• Offices under the Ministry of Public Security in your residing province

You must appear in person for photographing and signing documents.

4. License Categories in Vietnam

5. How Long Is a Vietnamese License Valid?

• Motorbike licenses (A1, A2): No expiration
• Car licenses (B1, B2): 10 years (for Vietnamese citizens)
• Converted licenses for foreigners: Valid until the expiration of their residence permit

6. Contact Us for License Support

📞 Hotline/Zalo: +84 944 526 862
📍 Office: No. 4 Quang Trung, Nguyen Trai, Ha Dong, Hanoi
✉️ Email: contact@doibanglaixe.com.vn

✅ We offer full services: driving courses, foreign license conversion, document translation, medical exams, and appointment booking.

Getting a Vietnamese driving license is easier than you think — whether you’re starting from scratch or converting an existing license, we’re here to guide you!