Is an International Driver’s License accepted in Vietnam?

Yes and no.
There are two main types of international driving permits (IDPs):

             
(Recognized)                                                                         (Unrecognized)

The 1968 Vienna Convention IDP
The 1949 Geneva Convention IDP
Currently, Vietnam only recognizes the 1968 Vienna IDP. Any other form — including the 1949 Geneva IDP or your regular home country driver’s license — is not valid for driving in Vietnam.

So what if I don’t have the 1968 Vienna IDP? Can I still join a motorbike tour in Vietnam? Absolutely. If you come from a country that didn’t sign the 1968 Vienna Convention, you can still ride in Vietnam — you’ll just need to pay a small fine if you’re ever stopped by the police. In reality, fines are rare and usually only occur in specific areas like Ha Giang, where traffic enforcement tends to be stricter.

Important note: You may come across websites that claim to offer “valid” international licenses for Vietnam — be careful. Most of these are scams. The only internationally recognized license in Vietnam is the 1968 Vienna IDP. If you can’t obtain it, don’t waste money on fake alternatives — just budget for a possible fine instead.

Final thoughts: A license is ultimately just proof that you’re physically fit and capable of riding safely. What really matters is that you know how to ride, wear proper protective gear, and ride responsibly. If you don’t have the right license, it’s not the end of the world — just ride smart and be ready to pay a small fine if needed.