What the Vietnamese driver's license test covers

The Vietnamese driver's license test has two parts: a written exam on traffic rules and road signs, and a practical driving test. The written exam is given in Vietnamese, though some provinces offer it in English or French depending on the testing center. You answer multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, vehicle safety, and how to respond to road situations. The practical test involves driving a set course while an examiner watches for safe handling, proper use of signals, and correct responses to obstacles or other vehicles.

The written test typically contains 35 to 40 questions, and you must answer at least 80 percent correctly to pass. The practical test lasts 15 to 20 minutes and covers basic maneuvers like starting, stopping, turning, parking, and reversing. Both tests are administered by your local Department of Transport (Sở Giao thông Vận tải), which is the government body that issues licenses in Vietnam.

Key Takeaways

  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs in multiple-choice format, with a passing score of 80 percent or higher.
  • The practical test requires you to demonstrate safe driving on a closed course, including parking, reversing, and turning.
  • You must complete a training course at an approved driving school before you can sit for either test.
  • Test dates and availability vary by province, so contact your local Department of Transport to find out when the next session is scheduled.
  • Bring your identity card, medical certificate, and proof of training completion to the testing center on the day of your exam.

Training requirements before you can test

Vietnam requires all first-time license holders to complete a training course at an approved driving school before taking the test. The course length depends on the license class you are pursuing. For a Class C license (standard car), the course is typically 20 to 24 hours of instruction spread over several days. For larger vehicles or motorcycles, the hours vary — Class A (motorcycle) may be 10 to 15 hours, while Class D (truck) can be 30 hours or more.

You can find approved driving schools through your local Department of Transport or by asking at the testing center. The school will provide classroom instruction on traffic laws, road signs, and vehicle maintenance, plus hands-on driving practice. Once you complete the course, the school issues a training certificate (Giấy chứng chỉ đào tạo), which you must bring to the testing center. Without this certificate, you will not be allowed to sit for the test.

How to register for the written and practical tests

After you finish your training course, you register directly at your local Department of Transport office. Bring your training certificate, identity card (CMND or passport), medical examination certificate (Giấy chứng chỉ khám sức khỏe), and a completed process form. The medical certificate confirms you are physically fit to drive and is issued by a licensed clinic or hospital — your driving school can usually direct you to one.

The registration fee varies by province and license class, but typically ranges from 500,000 to 1,500,000 Vietnamese Dong. The Department of Transport will assign you a test date, usually within two to four weeks of registration. You will receive a notice with the date, time, and location. Some provinces allow you to register online through their Department of Transport website, while others require you to register in person.

Preparing for the written exam

The written test focuses on Vietnamese traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Study materials are available from your driving school, and many schools provide practice tests that mirror the real exam format. The questions cover topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle emergencies, and vehicle maintenance basics.

Since the test is in Vietnamese, if you are not a native speaker, ask your driving school whether they offer instruction in English or another language. Some testing centers in larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can administer the test in English, but you must request this when you register. Practice tests are often available in both Vietnamese and English through your school or online resources.

On test day, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring your identity card and the notice of your test date. You will sit at a computer or receive a paper exam, answer the questions, and receive your score when ready. If you pass, you move on to the practical test, usually scheduled for the same day or within a few days. If you do not pass, you can retake the written test after a waiting period, which varies by province but is typically one to two weeks.

What to expect during the practical driving test

The practical test takes place on a closed driving course at the testing center. An examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you perform a series of maneuvers. You will be asked to start the vehicle, drive forward and backward, make turns, park (both parallel and perpendicular), and respond to simulated obstacles or traffic situations. The examiner is looking for smooth control, proper use of mirrors and signals, correct gear changes, and safe decision-making.

Common mistakes that cause failure include hitting cones or barriers, stalling the engine, failing to signal, not checking mirrors, and improper parking. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. You receive your result on the same day. If you pass both the written and practical tests, you can pick up your license within a few days, though some provinces mail it to you.

If you do not pass on your first attempt

If you fail the written test, you can retake it after a waiting period. The waiting period is typically one to two weeks, depending on your province. You do not need to repeat the training course, but you do need to pay the registration fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after additional study or practice driving.

If you fail the practical test, the same applies — you can retake it after a waiting period without repeating the full training course. However, many people choose to do a few more hours of practice driving with their school before the second attempt. Ask your driving school about refresher lessons, which are usually inexpensive and can help you identify what went wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the test in English instead of Vietnamese?

Some testing centers in major cities offer the written test in English, but you must request this when you register. Not all provinces support this, so contact your local Department of Transport to confirm. The practical test does not require language — the examiner will give instructions through gestures and basic commands.

How long is the training course?

For a Class C license (standard car), training is typically 20 to 24 hours. Motorcycle (Class A) is usually 10 to 15 hours, and truck (Class D) is 30 hours or more. Your driving school will tell you the exact hours required for your license class when you enroll.

What happens if I fail the practical test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks. You do not need to repeat the training course. Many people do a few more practice hours with their school before the second attempt to work on the skills the examiner noted.

Do I need a medical certificate to take the test?

Yes. You must bring a medical examination certificate (Giấy chứng chỉ khám sức khỏe) issued by a licensed clinic or hospital when you register. This confirms you are physically fit to drive. Your driving school can usually direct you to a clinic that provides this certificate.

How much does it cost to get a Vietnamese driver's license?

The total cost includes the driving school course (typically 3 to 8 million Dong), the medical certificate (200,000 to 500,000 Dong), and the registration and test fees (500,000 to 1,500,000 Dong). Exact costs vary by province and license class. Ask your driving school for a full breakdown before you enroll.