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Vietnam Motorbike
Vietnam

Complete guide to riding a motorbike in Vietnam - licenses, parking, refueling, and rental tips.

Last updated: December 19, 2025
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Driver's License

1968 IDP (Vienna Convention)

Vietnam is a signatory, this is the official requirement

Accepted

1949 IDP (Geneva Convention)

Vietnam did NOT sign this convention

Countries like USA, Australia issue this type - not valid here

Not Accepted

ASEAN Country License

Legally interchangeable within ASEAN

Some police may not recognize this

Accepted

Other Foreign License Only

Without IDP - not valid for driving

Not Accepted

Reality Check

Many tourists ride without proper licenses. However, if you have an accident, your travel insurance will likely be void without a valid license. Police checkpoints do happen, especially in tourist areas.

Parking

Pay the Parking Fee

Never skip the parking fee (usually 2,000-5,000 VND). Paid parking lots have security and your bike is protected. Free street parking is risky.

Keep Your Ticket

You’ll receive a numbered ticket that matches a tag on your bike. Keep this ticket safe - you need it to collect your motorbike.

Bike Might Be Moved

If you park in front of someone’s shop, staff may move your bike to make space. Don’t panic - just look around nearby or ask the shop owner.

Refueling Tip

Just Hand Over the Money

Often you can’t explain how much fuel you want - just hand them the cash and they’ll take care of it.

Maintenance & Repairs

Short-term Rentals

If you’re renting for a few days or weeks, you typically won’t need to worry about maintenance. The rental shop handles oil changes, tire checks, etc. Just report any issues to them.

Finding Trustworthy Mechanics

To avoid getting scammed on repairs:

  • Ask your rental shop - they often have partner mechanics
  • Ask locals or expats - Facebook groups are helpful
  • Check Google Maps reviews - look for shops with foreigner reviews
  • Get multiple quotes - if something seems expensive, walk away
  • Stay and watch - don’t leave your bike and come back later

Rental Prices

Typical Daily Rental Rates

In-city only (automatic scooter)
Must return to same location
100-150k/day
One-way / intercity
Can drop off in different city
150-200k/day
Semi-automatic / Manual
Honda Win, XR150, etc.
200-400k/day
Monthly rental
Best value for long stays
1.5-3M/month
Deposit

Typically 2-10 million VND in cash, or sometimes passport (not recommended). Some shops accept credit card hold.

NEVER leave your passport as deposit. A copy is acceptable, but losing your passport creates massive problems.

While Riding

Use Your Horn

Honking in Vietnam is to communicate that you’re overtaking or to alert others - it’s not aggression.