To legally convert your current license to a Vietnamese one, you must have a Vietnamese visa that is valid for at least 3 more months. Short-term tourists on 30/45/90 day visas cannot convert a foreign license. Prior to July 1, 2026 a TRC was required to convert, this no longer the case. Any long term visa is allowed to convert
Under the conversion process you will not gain the ability to ride a motorcycle unless you currently have a motorcycle endorsement. Only your existing rights will convert
If you lack a current motorcycle endorsement then strategy will be to obtain the desired motorcycle license and then convert it using the process below!
Required Documents for Conversion:
- Application Form: Filled out form specifically for foreign nationals.
- Notarized Translation: Your current driver’s license translated into Vietnamese by an authorized notary.
- Passport: Photocopy of the ID page and current valid visa/TRC.
- Photos: 3-4 passport-sized color photos.
- Original License & Passport: Bring these for in-person verification.
Where to Apply:
- Hanoi: Department of Transport (16 Cao Ba Quat Street).
- Ho Chi Minh City: Department of Transport (63 Ly Tu Trong Street).
n Vietnam, converting a foreign driving license only grants you a temporary permit valid for the duration of your visa or residence card. To obtain a lifetime Vietnamese A1 license, you must successfully pass a practical driving exam. By presenting your Indonesian license, you may be able to skip the theory test.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather Required Documents:
- A valid passport and your current long term visa or Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
- Your home country driving license.
- A medical certificate from a designated hospital/clinic stating you are fit to drive.
- 6 passport-sized photos (3×4 cm) with a blue background.
- Translate Your License: Have your home country driver’s license translated and notarized into Vietnamese by a licensed translation center.
- Submit Your Application: Take your documents to the local Department of Transport (e.g., at 99 Trần Quốc Thảo in Ho Chi Minh City or their counterpart in Hanoi). You can also use a local driving school or visa agency to handle the paperwork for you.
Obtaining or renewing a Vietnamese license if over age 70 license brings additional requirements
- A valid passport and your current visa or Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
- Your recently expired Vietnamese driving license.
- A medical certificate from a designated hospital/clinic stating you are fit to drive..
- A Defensive Driving Certificate
Get Licensed and Ride in Vietnam the RA
