Do foreign driver's licenses work in Vietnam and can you ride a scooter without a license?
Based on 2 discussions with 2 participants · Last activity: 19 days ago
TL;DR
Foreign licenses are valid in Vietnam only when accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP). Riding without a license or with fake documents is extremely risky — traffic police photograph both the driver and documents, and document forgery can result in criminal charges.
What the community said
Fake Vietnamese licenses are a serious risk. Authorities know how to spot forgeries and photograph the driver alongside the open document. If a fake is detected, it can lead to criminal charges — Vietnam takes document fraud very seriously.
19 days ago Criminal liability for document forgery
A foreign driver's license with motorcycle category (A) is valid in Vietnam, but only together with an International Driving Permit (IDP). Traffic police check both documents and photograph the driver with them. A national license alone is not sufficient.
19 days ago Required: national license (cat. A) + IDP
Riding a scooter or motorbike in Vietnam without any license is illegal. Police conduct regular checks, and riding without documents results in fines. An IDP must be obtained before entering the country.
19 days ago IDP must be obtained before arrival in Vietnam