Known as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vietnam is a long, narrow country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China, Laos, Cambodia and the South China Sea. It's known for its rich history, diverse landscapes (e.g., the Red River Delta and Mekong Delta), coastal plains, historical cities, and vibrant culture. Hanoi; its capital, resides on the banks of the Red River in northern Vietnam. It is one of the oldest capitals in Southeast Asia, and the cultural and political centre of Vietnam, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. The city blends ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern development, with key landmarks such as: Hoan Kiem Lake, The Old Quarter (famous for its narrow streets and street food), Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Temple of Literature.
UTC+7.
Floods, tropical cyclones, landslides, and droughts.
Vietnam has a point system for drivers where points are taken off when an violation is made, and foreign drivers are not excluded from this. If all 12 points of a driver's licence are deducted, it becomes invalid and suspended, making the driver to retake the driving exam to reinstate it.
For traffic offences;
Violations that caused serious injury, death or certain severe consequences, there can be criminal liability, not just administrative fines. Fines for common violations include:
Fines are often issued on the spot, sometimes after documentation, where evidence (photos, witness, video) may be used. Laws require tourists to behave civilised, to respect cultural norms, and to obey signs and regulations of tourist sites. Penalties for disrespectful behaviour can escalate. These are administrative, not criminal (unless very serious offense).
UK nationals can visit Vietnam visa‑free for up to 45 days, where an e-visa can be applied for visits up to 90 days and multiple entries.
Vehicles in Vietnam drive on the right-hand side of the road. The minimum driving age is 18, but the minimum renting age is 21, where drivers must have held their licence for at least one year, and a 'young driver fee' may be charged by some rental companies to drivers under 25. UK drivers need a 1968 Convention International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Vietnam, in addition to their UK driving licence.
On major roads and highways, conditions are fairly good. However, rural roads may be narrow, poorly maintained, have potholes, or suffer flooding in rainy seasons, and lighting outside cities can be poor (causing reduced visibility), which can cause night driving to be risky, especially with animals and pedestrians entering the road. There are many signs controlling where overtaking is allowed or prohibited. If overtaking is done in a prohibited zone, fines can be substantial. Many drivers often don’t strictly follow rules, which makes their movements unpredictable, and not every road sign is well kept and fully visible. Be attentive, and use defensive driving when needed.
RON 95-IV and RON 95-III are the common petrol in fuel stations, with diesel (DO 0.001S-V (low sulphur) and DO 0.05S) being available as well. Fuel stations are common in cities and along national roads, but scarcer in remote mountainous or island areas. Stations are usually full-service where you tell what fuel you want and how much. Cash is accepted, but cards are rarely accepted (especially at smaller stations). Pay the attendant after fuelling, and always check the meter before and during fuelling to avoid scams.
Very strict. Often zero tolerance with severe penalties.
Mandatory in cars for driver and front-seat passengers; law requires belts in rear seats if fitted.
Children under 10 years old or shorter than 135cm must not sit in front with driver (unless only one row), and must use appropriate safety devices.