Vietnam's roads just got a whole lot stricter! Starting January 1, 2025, the new Decree 168/2024 got rolled out across the country, bringing with it ten new laws. A wave of which included updated traffic rules, steeper fines, and stricter enforcement.
With these new laws it won’t matter if you're a local zipping through the streets by car or a traveler looking to explore Vietnam by motorbike, these changes will impact you!
So buckle up as we take an informative ride through what these new traffic laws mean and how you can stay on the right side of the law!
Why the New Traffic Laws Matter
Vietnam's government is cracking down on reckless driving with the goal of improving road safety and reducing accidents. The updated traffic regulations are designed to:
Encourage compliance with road rules.
Deter dangerous driving behaviors.
Ensure both locals and tourists are well-informed and safe.
With stricter fines and harsher penalties, it's time to brush up on your road etiquette and avoid turning your dream trip into a costly nightmare.
Related article: Motorbiking in Vietnam: Safety Tips and Best Practices for 2024.
Key Changes in Traffic Violations for 2025
The new decree introduces tougher penalties for some of the most common traffic violations such as driving on the sidewalk, wearing earphones while driving, and wrongly turning right on a red light.
Alongside these violations here are the biggest takeaways you should be aware of:
1. Running Red Lights
Think you can make that last-second dash through a yellow light? Think again. The fine for running a red light is now between 18-20 million VND, so it's best to play it safe and stop when you're supposed to!
2. Speeding
Got a need for speed? Better watch your speedometer. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 35 km/h could set you back 12-14 million VND, and that’s not the kind of souvenir you want from your trip.
3. Drinking and Driving
Vietnam takes driving under the influence very seriously, and the fines reflect that.
Depending on your blood alcohol level, you could be fined anywhere between 18-20 million VND for cars and 6-10 million VND for motorbikes. Play it safe and grab a taxi!
4. Driving in the Wrong Direction
Vietnam's chaotic traffic might tempt you to take shortcuts, but driving the wrong way on one-way streets could cost you 18-20 million VND, while doing so on highways will hit you with a 30-40 million VND fine.
5. Using Phones While Driving
Instagramming your way through the streets? Not a great idea! Fines for using phones or electronic devices while driving now range between 4-6 million VND.
6. Parking in the Wrong Spot
Improperly parked vehicles can cause major congestion, and fines have increased to 12-14 million VND for cars that stop or park in restricted areas, especially on highways.
Additionally, opening a car door, or leaving it open while parked in an unsafe manner will result in a fine of around 22 million VND.
What Do These New Traffic Laws Mean for Travelers?
If you're planning to explore Vietnam by motorbike or car, these new laws mean you'll need to:
Stay Alert: Know the rules before you hit the road.
Budget for Fines: Accidents happen, but now they come with a hefty price tag.
Consider Alternative Transport: Public transportation and ride-hailing apps might save you a lot of trouble.
The new laws apply equally to both locals and foreigners, so there's no special treatment if you're caught breaking the rules.
Is there a New Law on Crossing the Road in Vietnam?
From January 1, 2025, crossing the street in Vietnam got a bit more... hands-on.
According to the new Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety 2024, pedestrians now have to signal with their hands when crossing the road if there are no traffic lights or pedestrian crossings around. Think of it as giving traffic a polite wave before you step off the curb!
Here's what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law (and the road):
Stick to sidewalks, roadsides, or designated pedestrian paths. If none are available, walk close to the right side of the road in your direction.
Always cross at marked pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, bridges, or underpasses. If those aren't an option, give traffic a good look, make sure it's safe, and raise your hand to let drivers know you're coming through.
No climbing over dividers or hitching a ride on passing vehicles (yes, really), and if you're carrying large items, make sure you're not blocking others.
Special considerations apply for children, seniors, and those with disabilities:
Kids under 7 need an adult to help them cross.
People using wheelchairs should stick to pedestrian-friendly areas.
The visually impaired should have a guide or use a visible signal.
Anyone unable to make decisions for themselves must have a companion.
And remember, lending a hand (literally) to someone in need of crossing is part of the community spirit!
Traffic Tips for a Smooth Ride
Avoid falling into the traffic trap by following these key tips:
Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with local road signs and traffic customs.
Wear a Helmet: It's required by law, and skipping it could mean fines and a ruined holiday.
Use Licensed Rentals: Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and has proper documentation.
Carry Small Change: Traffic police may impose on-the-spot fines, and having small denominations makes payments easier.
Stay in Your Lane: Lane discipline is crucial, especially in busy cities like Hanoi.
Always Carry your International License (IDP): Getting caught without a license as a foreigner could now set you back up to 3 million VND, where it was previously around 1-2 million VND.
How to Stay Updated on the New Traffic Laws
With traffic laws changing frequently, staying informed is key. Here are a few ways you can keep yourself up to date:
Government Websites: Visit official sites like "Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Chính Phủ" for the latest regulations.
Travel Forums: Check travel blogs for firsthand experiences from other travelers.
Ask Locals: Your hostel receptionist or a local tour guide can often provide helpful advice on navigating local traffic.
Are the New Traffic Laws Working?
Since the government rolled out Decree 168 in January, Vietnam's traffic scene has seen some serious changes—for the better!
In just two weeks, traffic police tackled over 174,600 cases of violations, confiscated thousands of licenses, and impounded nearly 50,000 motorbikes.
But the good news?
The crackdown on reckless driving and traffic violations has resulted in 34% fewer accidents compared to previous years. Fatalities are also down by 11%, and injuries have decreased significantly too. Talk about putting the brakes on chaos!
Traffic culture is evolving too. More people are following the rules even when the police aren't around—shocking, right?
Officials are hopeful that with continued enforcement, Vietnam's roads will become safer and smoother, especially during peak travel times like the Tet holiday.
Our Thoughts on the New Traffic Laws 2025
While Vietnam's new traffic laws might sound daunting, they're ultimately designed to make the roads safer for everyone.
So ride safe, obey the laws, and maybe give a friendly wave while crossing the road! oh and don’t forget to stop by and see us at Bong Hostel!
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