For foreigners planning to drive in Vietnam, understanding the legal requirements for driving licenses is essential. Two types of international driving documents that often cause confusion are the IAA (International Automobile Association) license and the IDP (International Driving Permit). While they may look similar and are both marketed for use abroad, only one of them is legally valid in Vietnam.
1. Definition
1.1. What is an IAA License?
The IAA license, issued by the International Automobile Association (a private company, not a government agency), is marketed as an “international driving license.” However, it is not recognized by the Vietnamese government—or by most countries worldwide—because it is not issued under the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic (1949 or 1968). It is essentially a translation of your national driver’s license, but with no legal standing unless issued by a competent authority.
1.2. What is an IDP License?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal document recognized under the UN Conventions on Road Traffic (1949 and 1968). It serves as a translation of your valid national driver’s license and is issued by an official authority or authorized organization in your home country (such as the Department of Motor Vehicles or an automobile association).
2. Which one is valid in Vietnam?
When it comes to driving legally in Vietnam, only the IDP (International Driving Permit) is recognized by the Vietnamese government. Specifically, Vietnam accepts IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, which the country officially joined in 2014. This means that if you are a foreigner from a country that is a party to the 1968 Convention, and you hold an IDP issued in accordance with this treaty, you are legally allowed to drive in Vietnam as long as you also carry your valid national driving license.
On the other hand, the IAA license is not valid in Vietnam. Despite being widely available online and often advertised as a legitimate international driving license, it holds no legal value in Vietnam or in any country that adheres to the UN road traffic conventions. Since the IAA is a private organization with no governmental authority, its licenses are considered unauthorized and unofficial translations of a driving license – not legal permits to operate a vehicle.
3. How to Drive Legally in Vietnam as a Foreigner
If you are a foreign national and intend to drive in Vietnam, here are your options to do so legally:
3.1. Use a 1968 IDP (International Driving Permit):
If your country is a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention, apply for an IDP in your home country. Bring both your IDP and your valid national driver’s license with you in Vietnam.
3.2. Convert your foreign driver’s license:
If you’re staying in Vietnam long-term (e.g., for work or study), you may be eligible to convert your foreign driver’s license into a Vietnamese one. This process is handled by the Directorate for Roads of Vietnam (DRVN) and typically requires the following:
- A notarized and translated copy of your foreign driver’s license
- A residency permit or long-term visa
- Passport-sized photos
- Application forms and applicable fees
3.3. Obtain a Vietnamese driver’s license:
If you do not qualify for an IDP or a license conversion, you can apply to take the Vietnamese driving
In summary, driving legally in Vietnam requires proper documentation that complies with international and local laws. While the IAA license may be marketed as an “international driving license,” it has no legal value in Vietnam and should not be relied upon. Instead, foreign nationals should ensure they hold a valid 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by an authorized body in their home country, or explore legal pathways such as converting their license or obtaining a Vietnamese driving license. Following the correct procedures not only ensures compliance with Vietnamese traffic laws but also protects you from legal and financial risks while driving in the country.
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