Motorbikes
A Vietnamese motorcycle license is what makes riding legal. Many shops still rent bikes to visitors without one. A crash in that situation is your problem, and insurance may not answer.
Verified 19 Oct 2026.
The practical choice
Hire a car and driver, or ride as a passenger with a licensed driver, on the Ha Giang Loop and the Hai Van pass. Those roads are the ones people picture when they imagine riding Vietnam.
If you hold the correct license, wear a helmet, ride in daylight, and do not drink. An international driving permit is not a substitute you should assume will be accepted. Check the current rule before you rent.