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How to Obtain Your Car Driver's License in Vietnam as a Foreigner

September 19, 2024

In this blog, we'll guide you through a simple step-by-step approach to obtaining a car driving license in Vietnam. Whether you're an expat or a long-term resident, follow these clear instructions to make the process smooth and hassle-free. 

 

Conditions:

1. Temporary Resident Card (TRC)

2. Valid Car Driver's License from your home country

If you follow this instruction carefully, it should be possible to obtain your driving license in 4 steps, separated over 4 days. 

 

Driver license process

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Translate Your Car Driver's License

  1. Find a certified translation service to translate your driving license. Residents of countries (including The Netherlands) can go this People Committee of District 3 (99-99A Trần Quốc Thảo street, ward 7, District 3, HCMC) or District 1 (45-47 Lê Duẩn street, Bến Nghé ward, District 1, HCMC).
  2. Submit your driving license for translation at the notary desk (Phòng Công chứng). This typically takes 2-3 days. 
  3. Collect your translated driving license. The cost is minimal, under 100.000 VND.

Step 2: Complete a Medical Check

  1. Go for a medical check to Giao Thong Van Tai Hospital, 136 Cach Mang Thang Tam street, ward 12, District 10, HCMC
  2. Take a portrait picture with you 
  3. The best is to go at the end of the day (around 3:45 p.m.) to avoid queues. They are open until 4.30 p.m.
  4. The medical check includes a urine test; you will receive your results directly after you take the test

Step 3: Visit the Driving License Office (63 Ly Tu Trong street, Ben Nghe ward, District 1, HCMC)

  1. Bring the following documents:
    • Medical check result
    • Translated driving license
    • Three copies of your TRC (both sides), passport bio page (both sides) and the latest stamp into Vietnam on a short-term visa (even if you have a TRC) 
    • Download and fill out this necessary form
  2. At the driving license center:
    • Start at counter number one and present all your documents.
    • Ensure all documents are trimmed to size to avoid delays.
    • Make the payment of 135,000 VND.
  3. Wait for your turn to have your picture taken. The waiting time can be long. 
  4. Finalize your submission and receive a form indicating that you can pick up your new driving license in ten days.

Step 4: Pick up your driving license at the driver's license office. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a car driving license in Vietnam can be accomplished in four straightforward steps, spread over four days. By following these instructions and ensuring you have the necessary documentation, you’ll be well on your way to driving legally in Vietnam.

For those interested in acquiring a motorbike driving license (A1), which applies to motorbikes under 175 cm³, it’s important to note that you must first obtain a Vietnamese car driving license. After that, you’ll need to take an additional practical driving test specific to motorbikes. People can register for the practical motorbike driving test at any local driving center or you can ask for this information at the Driving License Office for the legal driving center.

We encourage our readers to share any additional information or insights on this topic. Your contributions can help others navigate the process more smoothly. Please send your thoughts and experiences to communications@dbav.org.vn. Safe driving!