Vietnam is implementing significant changes to its driving regulations and vehicle emission standards starting in 2025, joining a growing number of countries modernizing their transportation infrastructure through digital solutions. The country will introduce a 12-point driver’s license system on January 1, 2025, designed to track and penalize traffic violations through point deductions using a centralized database system similar to digital ID initiatives being implemented in South Korea.
The new system will deduct points based on the severity of traffic violations and track them in real-time through a centralized database. The digital tracking system marks a significant advancement in Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure, following the global trend toward digital identity verification in driving credentials. Drivers who maintain points without infractions for 12 consecutive months will have their licenses restored to the full 12 points. Those who lose all points must wait six months before retaking a traffic safety knowledge test to restore their license.
The Ministry of Public Security’s Circular 65/2024 outlines the process for conducting knowledge tests, which will be administered by traffic police. Notably, point counts will carry over when licenses are renewed or upgraded, rather than automatically resetting to 12 points. The system follows established international practices for driver monitoring and road safety enforcement.
Vietnam has also established a comprehensive roadmap for vehicle emission standards. The Euro 5 emission standard will continue to apply to newly imported, manufactured, and assembled automobiles from January 2025. For two-wheeled vehicles, Euro 2 standards will remain in effect for mopeds until June 2027, while Euro 3 standards will apply to motorcycles until June 2026.
The country will implement stricter Euro 4 standards for two-wheeled mopeds and motorcycles starting July 2027 and July 2026, respectively. Additionally, a Net Zero emission standard will take effect from January 2026 for four-wheeled passenger and goods vehicles, as well as three-wheeled motorcycles and mopeds, demonstrating Vietnam’s commitment to reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality.
For foreign visitors driving in Vietnam, regulations require either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a temporary Vietnamese license. The IDP must be obtained before arrival and serves as a multilingual translation of the home country’s license. Alternatively, visitors can apply for a temporary Vietnamese license, valid for up to three months, by passing written and practical driving tests and presenting a valid home country license. The system mirrors digital license verification systems being adopted in other regions, though Vietnam has not yet announced plans for mobile driver’s licenses.
Sources: VietnamNet, Thu Vien Phap Luat, Phong Nha Explorer
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