Traveling by motorbike is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Vietnam. However, to ride legally and safely, it’s essential for foreigners to understand the local licensing requirements. This guide provides comprehensive information on obtaining a motorbike driving license in Vietnam.
Do Foreigners Need a License in Vietnam?
Yes. To legally ride a motorbike over 50cc, foreigners must have one of the following:
✅ A Vietnamese motorbike driving license, or
✅ A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, combined with a valid home-country motorbike license.
Note: IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention (e.g. USA, Australia) are not accepted. In that case, you must convert or retest in Vietnam.
Three Legal Ways to Ride in Vietnam
1. Use a 1968 IDP + Valid Motorcycle License
If you’re from a country that follows the 1968 Vienna Convention (like most of Europe), and your IDP includes motorcycles, you’re allowed to ride legally.
�� You must carry:
- Your original IDP
- Your original home license (with motorcycle class)
This option works best for short-term travelers or tourists.
2. Convert Your Home License to a Vietnamese License
If your home license includes motorcycles but isn’t supported by a 1968 IDP, you can convert it to a Vietnamese license.
Required documents:
- Passport with valid visa (3+ months)
- Temporary or permanent residence card
- Original driver’s license from your home country
- Notarized Vietnamese translation of your license
- Passport-size photos
�� Apply at the local Department of Transport (DoT) in the city where you are living.
�� No driving test required if you’re only converting.
3. Get a Vietnamese License from scratch
If you don’t already have a motorcycle license, you’ll need to go through the full licensing process in Vietnam.
There are two license types:
- A1 License – Motorbikes under 175cc (e.g., scooters, semi-automatics)
- A2 License – Motorbikes over 175cc (e.g., manual touring bikes)
You’ll need to:
- Pass a theory test (in Vietnamese only; interpreters not allowed)
- Pass a practical riding test at a certified center
- Submit a health certificate, valid visa, and ID
���� At tefljob.net, we help expats prepare for both exams
Why Riding Without a License Is a Bad Idea
Even though many tourists ride scooters without proper licenses, this is illegal and carries serious risks:
❌ Fines or bike confiscation during police checks
❌ No insurance coverage if you’re in an accident
❌ Criminal liability if others are injured
��️ Getting licensed keeps you safe, legal, and fully insured.
How tefljob.net can help
At tefljob.net, we support foreigners who live and travel in Vietnam by offering:
✔ License conversion & full test support
✔ Help with documents, translations & appointments
✔ Coaching for A1 & A2 practical test
✔ Job placement for ESL teachers
✔ Accommodation & visa assistance
We’ve helped hundreds of expats get licensed the right way — so you can ride with peace of mind.
Final Tips Before You Ride
- Learn basic Vietnamese traffic laws and signs
- Always wear a helmet (it’s the law)
If you’re staying long-term, consider getting your A1 license for convenience
- Know your nearest DoT office and driving center
- Keep a physical copy of your license with you at all times
Need Help Getting Your License?
Whether you’re teaching English, traveling, or living in Vietnam, tefljob.net is ready to help in need
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