Can Foreigners Ride a Motorbike in Vietnam? (Updated 2025 Guide)
Exploring Vietnam by motorbike is an unforgettable experience—but if you’re a foreign traveler, you’ve likely wondered:
Can foreigners ride a motorbike in Vietnam legally?
The short answer: Not without the right license.
This guide breaks down what’s legal, what’s not, and how to stay safe (and fine-free) on the road.
Understanding the Law: Who Can Ride a Motorbike in Vietnam?
Why Licensing Matters for Foreigners
Although thousands of tourists ride motorbikes in Vietnam every day, most are unaware of the legal requirements.
Here’s the truth:
If you ride without a valid license in Vietnam, you’re breaking the law.
And if you’re stopped by the police or involved in an accident, you could face fines, invalidated insurance, or even legal issues.
Valid Ways Foreigners Can Legally Ride in Vietnam
Option 1: International Driving Permit (IDP) + Home License
You’re allowed to ride legally if you have:
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An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention
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Your valid home country motorbike license
This combination is fully recognized by Vietnamese authorities.
Note: IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention are not accepted in Vietnam.
Check if Your Country Signed the 1968 Convention
You can see the full list of 1968 signatory countries here.
Option 2: Vietnamese Motorbike License
If you don’t have a valid IDP, you’ll need a Vietnamese motorbike license, but this is only available to:
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Residents
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Expats with a work permit or long-term visa (valid over 3 months)
Tourist visas are not eligible for applying for a Vietnamese license.
Invalid License Scenarios (You Can’t Ride)
What Doesn’t Work in Vietnam?
If you fall into any of the following categories, you’re not allowed to ride legally:
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You only have your home country license
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You have an IDP under the 1949 Convention
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You have no license at all
Important: Riding without a valid license means you’ll have no insurance coverage if an accident happens.
Risks of Riding Without a Valid License
What Can Happen?
Riding a motorbike in Vietnam without a legal license can lead to:
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On-the-spot fines from police (common in tourist areas)
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Bike confiscation
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No insurance payout in the event of an accident
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Legal issues or immigration complications for serious offenses
What If You’re on a Tourist Visa Without a Valid IDP?
If you’re on a short-term trip and don’t have a 1968 IDP, you can’t ride legally—even if bike rental shops don’t ask for a license.
The Safe Alternative: Join a Guided Motorbike Tour
If you’re just visiting Vietnam, the best—and safest—way to ride is by booking a guided motorbike tour.
With Rew Rew Easy Riders, you’ll enjoy:
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Licensed, experienced local drivers
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Custom tours from 1 to 14+ days
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No license hassles, just amazing scenery and authentic experiences
Want to explore the countryside worry-free?
Check out our Easy Rider Tours from Dalat to Nha Trang for a legal and unforgettable journey.
Conclusion: Can Foreigners Ride a Motorbike in Vietnam?
Yes—but only with the right license.
Foreigners can legally ride a motorbike in Vietnam if they have a 1968 IDP and a valid home license, or if they’ve converted their license under a long-term visa.
If you’re traveling on a tourist visa, the smartest option is to book a guided tour and ride safely with local experts.
