What Is an International Driving Permit? Complete Guide Under the Vietnam 1968 Convention

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Learn everything about the International Driving Permit (IDP) under the Vietnam 1968 Convention: eligibility, validity period, license categories, list of recognizing countries, and essential driving tips abroad.

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✅ What Is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official translation of your domestic driver’s license, allowing you to legally drive in countries that are parties to the Vietnam 1968 Convention on Road Traffic.

It is a multi-language document, similar in size to a passport, containing your photo and personal information.

🛑 Note: The IDP must be presented along with your valid domestic driver’s license to be legally recognized.

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📜 IDP According to the Vietnam 1968 Convention

According to Article 41 and Annex 7 of the 1968 Road Traffic Convention, drivers must meet the following criteria:

• Possess a valid national driving license.
• Pass a theoretical and practical driving test as regulated by their home country.
• The IDP must be issued by the country of residence.
• Learner’s permits are not accepted under this convention.
• The IDP is valid for up to 10 years or until your national license expires—whichever comes first.

🎯 Drivers under 18 years old (or under 21 for license categories C, D) may be denied recognition in other countries.

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🚗 IDP License Categories According to the 1968 Convention

License Class	Description
A	Motorcycles
A1	Motorcycles up to 125cc and ≤ 11kW
B	Cars ≤ 3,500kg and ≤ 8 seats (excluding driver)
B1	Three- and four-wheeled vehicles
C	Vehicles > 3,500kg (trucks)
C1	Vehicles from 3,500 to 7,500kg
D	Passenger vehicles > 8 seats
D1	Passenger vehicles from 9 to 16 seats
BE	B-class vehicles with trailers > 750kg
CE	C-class vehicles with trailers > 750kg
C1E	C1-class vehicles with trailers ≤ 12,000kg total
DE	D-class vehicles with trailers > 750kg
D1E	D1-class vehicles with non-passenger trailers ≤ 12,000kg

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🌎 Who Should Apply for an International Driving Permit?

You should apply for an IDP if you:

• Plan to travel abroad for tourism or work.
• Intend to rent and drive a car in a foreign country.
• May need to present a valid license to foreign authorities.

💡 While some countries may accept your domestic license for short stays, having an IDP ensures legal protection and peace of mind.

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📍 Countries That Recognize the IDP Under the Vietnam 1968 Convention

More than 70 countries recognize the IDP issued under the 1968 Convention, including:

• France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands
• Japan, South Korea, Thailand
• Russia, South Africa, Hungary
• UAE, India, Brazil, and more

👉 Always check whether your destination country is a party to the 1968 Convention before driving.

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📌 Important Notes When Using an IDP

• The IDP does not replace your domestic license—you must carry both.
• The IDP cannot be used in the country where it was issued.
• It is not valid in countries that have not signed or recognized the 1968 Convention.

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✅ Final Thoughts

An International Driving Permit is your legal and safe gateway to explore the world by car. Understanding the rules under the Vietnam 1968 Convention will help you avoid trouble, save time, and enjoy a smooth journey abroad.

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📌 Need to apply for an International Driving Permit in Vietnam?
👉 Contact authorized agencies or trusted service centers to get your IDP quickly and legally.

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