Self-Drive in Vietnam as a Tourist: IDP Rules 2026

Many visitors only find out their IDP is not accepted in Vietnam at the rental counter, and by then the self-drive plan has to change in a hurry.

Many visitors ask whether they can drive themselves in Vietnam. This guide summarises what common guides report about international driving permits and suggests easy checks before you travel. It is general information, not legal advice.

Photo: Tan Son Nhat airport area at night by Laurdhz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

What guides report

Several licensing and travel guides state that Vietnam recognises international driving permits issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, carried together with your original national licence and passport, and that the vehicle category (B for cars) is covered. Permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, as used in countries such as the US, Canada and Australia, are reported as not recognised.

Residents

Foreigners living, working or studying in Vietnam with a residence document can convert a valid national licence into a Vietnamese one; an IDP itself cannot be converted. Rules were updated by Circular 108/2026/TT-BCA, effective 1 July 2026.

Easy checks

• Check which convention your IDP follows before you fly.
• Confirm with the rental company and local traffic police if unsure, since guidance varies between sources.
• If the documents do not line up, a car with a driver is a comfortable, insured option. See car rental with driver.

Tip from Car Rental Vietnam: Photograph the IDP page showing the convention and send it to the rental company before you fly; they can confirm early instead of leaving it until pickup.

Frequently asked questions

Which IDP is reported accepted?

1968 Vienna Convention permits, per several guides.

Can an IDP be converted?

No, only a valid national licence can for residents.

What if unsure?

Confirm with the rental company or choose a driver.

Please check the official text for your own case.

Checks before you plan to self-drive

Check what licence your country issues and what the rental company accepts before you book. Carry your passport, licence and any permit with you.

If the answer is unclear, book a car with driver as a backup.

See 2025 traffic law and self-drive or driver.

Quick answers

Is every IDP accepted? No; check your country.

Can I switch to a driver? Yes, ask the team.

If your licence is not valid in Vietnam

If your licence does not meet the rules described above, a car with an English-speaking driver is a simple alternative: you keep the same flexibility of route and stops, with no need to drive. Quotes are per vehicle, vehicles are insured, and child seats are available on request.

Related: car rental with driver, child car seat rules, design your own route.

If you are planning a nearby route, 10 Tourist Destinations for Lunar New Year 2026 has more details to help you prepare.