Conditions for Foreigners to Drive Motorcycles in Vietnam:

Motorcycle License Categories in Vietnam:

A1 License
For motorcycles from 50cc to under 125cc.
This is the most common license for city driving and small bikes.

A License (New Category)
For motorcycles over 125cc.
This new classification replaces the older A2 license.
Riders of powerful bikes now need an A license, not A2.

Conditions for Foreigners to Ride Motorcycles in Vietnam (as of 2025):

Conditions for Foreigners to Ride Motorcycles in Vietnam (as of 2025):
International Driving Permit (IDP):
Must be issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention.
Must include motorcycle categories (A1 or A) depending on the bike size.
1949 Geneva Convention IDPs are not accepted.

National Driving License:
Must be presented together with the IDP.
License class must match the bike:

A1 for 50–125cc
A for over 125cc

License Conversion (for long-term stay):
Foreigners living in Vietnam long-term can convert their national license to a Vietnamese one.
Requires notarized Vietnamese translation and a valid visa or residence permit.

Minimum Age:
At least 18 years old to ride any motorcycle.

Third-Party Insurance in Vietnam – What It Covers:

In Vietnam, third-party motorcycle insurance (called bảo hiểm trách nhiệm dân sự bắt buộc) is mandatory and covers:
Injury or death to the other person involved in an accident you cause.
Damage to the other vehicle or property you crash into.
Important: It does not cover your own injuries, medical expenses, or damage to your motorcycle.

If You’re a Foreigner Riding a Motorcycle in Vietnam:
If you have third-party insurance:
Yes, it helps you cover liability if you crash into someone else.
It helps you avoid paying large compensation to the other party out-of-pocket.
However, you are not protected yourself.

If you’re injured or your motorcycle is damaged:
Third-party insurance does NOT cover your own medical costs or bike repair.
For that, you need additional coverage, such as:
Personal accident insurance
Comprehensive motorcycle insurance

Recommendation:

If you’re riding regularly in Vietnam (especially as a foreigner), it’s highly recommended to get comprehensive insurance that includes:
Third-party liability (required by law)
Personal injury protection
Coverage for damage to your own motorcycle