Traffic Violation Fines in Vietnam: Key Updates and Increased Penalties for 2025

Navigating Vietnam's updated traffic rules is now more critical than ever. As of January 2025, Decree 168/2024 introduces increased fines for common violations, aiming to enhance road safety and reduce incidents. Key offenses, like running red lights or exceeding speed limits, now carry stricter penalties to better enforce compliance. These changes are vital for anyone driving in Vietnam to avoid costly mistakes and remain informed. Understanding these updates ensures safer, more responsible travel.

Introduction to Decree 168/2024/ND-CP

Vietnam is taking a stronger stance on traffic safety with the implementation of Decree 168/2024/ND-CP. Set to take effect on January 1, 2025, this decree introduces revamped penalties for road violations. Designed to curb reckless driving and improve adherence to road rules, it applies equally to local residents and foreign nationals.

Driving isn’t just about getting from one place to another; it's a shared responsibility. Decree 168 recognizes this by addressing common traffic issues and adjusting fines to reflect their severity. Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to Vietnam, this decree affects everyone on the road. What does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.

Objectives of the Decree

The decree has a clear aim: reduce traffic accidents and improve safety standards. It achieves this by making the consequences of rule-breaking more immediate and impactful. For years, Vietnam has struggled with enforcement of certain traffic laws, and this new approach tackles the problem head-on.

Key goals include:

• Ensuring compliance with traffic signals and driving conditions.
• Discouraging dangerous habits like speeding and ignoring right-of-way rules.
• Encouraging vehicle owners to maintain their cars and motorbikes properly.

By increasing penalties for offenses like running red lights or reckless overtaking, the decree underscores its priority on safety over convenience.

Impacts on Local and Foreign Drivers

The decree doesn’t differentiate between local drivers and foreigners—it’s a blanket rule for everyone on the road. This levels the playing field and ensures uniform adherence to traffic laws. Here’s how it might affect you:

• Local Drivers: The heightened emphasis on fines aims to discourage habits such as ignoring signage or maintaining vehicles poorly. Common violations may now lead to budget-breaking fines, encouraging more cautious driving.
• Foreign Nationals: For expats or visitors, the decree highlights the importance of understanding local traffic laws. Unlike in some countries where minor infractions are treated lightly, these changes make it costly to underestimate Vietnam’s road rules. Taking time to familiarize yourself with the updated regulations is now more critical than ever.

The decree also introduces stricter measures for license point systems, meaning careless mistakes could eventually lead to suspension of driving privileges. This adds another layer of accountability.

Enhanced Penalties for Common Violations

Decree 168 significantly increases fines for a variety of offenses, ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious violations. For instance:

• Running red lights can now lead to fines between 10,000,000 VND to 14,000,000 VND for severe violations that cause accidents.
• Speeding over 35 km/h beyond the limit may result in penalties reaching up to 12,000,000 VND.
• Failing to yield to pedestrians or cyclists at crossings is no longer taken lightly, with fines climbing to 6,000,000 VND.

Such changes send a strong signal to drivers, urging them to pay attention and follow the rules diligently.

Fines for Common Traffic Violations by Motor Vehicles (Cars)

Navigating Vietnam's roads requires more than just proper technique—it demands adherence to ever-evolving traffic regulations. For 2025, Decree 168 introduces stricter fines aimed at curbing unsafe behaviors and promoting road safety. If you’re behind the wheel, understanding the penalties for various violations is a must to avoid costly errors.

Failing to comply with traffic light signals

Fine: 18–20 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving in the wrong direction on one-way roads or roads with "No Entry" signs

Fine: 18–20 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Failing to slow down or yield when entering from side roads or intersections

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Failing to yield to pedestrians or wheelchair users at pedestrian crossings

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Opening vehicle doors unsafely, causing traffic accidents

Fine: 20–22 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Transporting items insecurely on vehicles (e.g., cylinders, equipment)

Fine: 18–22 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Ignoring traffic controller’s instructions

Fine: 18–20 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Obstructing or refusing to comply with officials’ inspections

Fine: 35–37 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Reckless driving or using feet to steer

Fine: 40–50 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving under alcohol influence (blood alcohol level: 50–80 mg/100 ml)

Fine: 18–20 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Exceeding the speed limit by over 35 km/h

Fine: 12–14 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving with unclear, altered, or unauthorized license plates

Fine: 20–26 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Using phones or electronic devices while driving

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving four-wheeled vehicles on highways

Fine: 12–14 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Stopping or parking vehicles improperly on highways

Fine: 12–14 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving in the wrong direction on highways

Fine: 30–40 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Reversing vehicles on highways

Fine: 30–40 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

U-turning on highways

Fine: 30–40 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Understanding the consequences of these violations is crucial. Whether navigating busy streets or long stretches of highway, staying informed keeps your journey safe and your wallet intact.

Fines for Common Traffic Violations by Motorbikes

Motorbikes remain the most popular mode of transport in Vietnam, making it essential for riders to follow updated traffic laws. The new fines introduced under Decree 168/2024 emphasize road safety and accountability. Knowing these penalties can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure safer journeys.

Failing to comply with traffic light signals

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving with blood alcohol content exceeding 50–80 mg/100 ml or breath alcohol content exceeding 0.25–0.4 mg/l

Fine: 6–8 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving with blood alcohol content exceeding 80 mg/100 ml or breath alcohol content exceeding 0.4 mg/l

Fine: 8–10 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 km/h

Fine: 6–8 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving motorcycles on highways

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Driving in the wrong direction on one-way roads

Fine: 4–6 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Reckless driving or weaving through traffic

Fine: 8–10 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

Causing an accident and failing to stop, preserve the scene, assist victims, or report to the nearest authority

Fine: 8–10 million VND (Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)

By following these updated rules, motorbike riders can contribute to safer roads while avoiding hefty fines. Traffic laws exist to protect everyone, so staying informed and riding responsibly is key.

Key Recommendations for Drivers in Vietnam

Driving in Vietnam comes with its own set of challenges, from navigating busy streets to staying compliant with evolving laws. Understanding the rules and taking proactive steps can save you from hefty fines and ensure safer roads for everyone.

How to Stay Updated on Traffic Laws

Traffic laws in Vietnam are updated regularly, with significant changes like Decree 168/2024 taking effect in 2025. Staying informed is essential whether you’re a local or a visitor. Here are some practical tips:

• Use Official Websites: Government sites like “Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Chính Phủ” or legal platforms like "Thư Viện Pháp Luật" frequently post updates about new regulations.
• Download Traffic Law Apps: Apps such as "Vietnam Road Laws" or "Luat Giao Thong Viet Nam" offer updated fines, road rules, and driving tips. Many offer English support for foreign drivers.
• Set Up Alerts: Use Google Alerts or subscribe to local news channels to get notifications about legal changes.
• Join Local Driving Groups: Communities on Facebook or platforms like Zalo often share insights and reminders about changes in real-time.
• Engage with Driving Schools: Many driving schools provide refresher courses and updates on new traffic policies.

Keeping these practices in place ensures you’re always informed and can drive with confidence.

Tips for Foreign Drivers

If you're new to Vietnam or visiting, driving can be intimidating. Familiarizing yourself with local customs and rules is critical. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

1. Get the Right License: Ensure you have an international driving permit (IDP) or a locally valid license. Driving without one can result in fines and impounded vehicles.
2. Avoid Rush Hours: Streets get chaotic during rush hours, typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM. Plan your trips accordingly.
3. Understand Road Hierarchies: Motorbikes dominate Vietnam’s roads, followed by larger vehicles. Learn to navigate around them carefully.
4. Respect Local Practices: Honking is common and often used to signal turns or overtakes. It’s not considered rude.
5. Memorize Traffic Signs: While many signs are standard, some use Vietnamese-only instructions. Familiarize yourself with common ones like "Cấm" (No entry) or "Dừng" (Stop).
6. Be Cautious at Intersections: Many drivers don’t stop fully at red lights or stop signs. Proceed defensively and stay alert.

Adapting to these tips will make your experience safer and smoother on Vietnam’s roads.

Preventing Common Mistakes

Even seasoned drivers occasionally make errors, especially in a foreign country. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you from unnecessary fines:

• Park Properly: Parking violations are a leading cause of penalties. Avoid parking in restricted zones, sidewalks, or outside marked lines. Always look for signs or double-check with locals.
• Yield and Give Way: Failing to yield to pedestrians or at roundabouts can result in fines. Always slow down and give right of way.
• Use Turn Signals: Skipping signals when changing lanes or turning is common but heavily fined. Make signaling a habit.
• Pay Attention to Speed Limits: Speeding is strictly monitored, especially on highways. Watch for signs and stick to posted limits.
• Respect One-Way Streets: Many urban areas have confusing one-way streets. Ignoring signs can lead to fines or accidents.

Consider creating a checklist for yourself before you hit the road to ensure you’ve covered all the basics.

Staying compliant is about more than avoiding fines; it’s about contributing to a culture of safety and respect on the road. With these recommendations, you can navigate Vietnam’s roads confidently and responsibly.

Adapting to traffic regulations is more than avoiding penalties; it’s a responsibility shared by everyone. With the updated fines under Decree 168/2024 taking effect in 2025, both local and foreign drivers in Vietnam are urged to stay informed and prepared. These updates reflect the government's intent to address unsafe behaviors and improve road safety nationwide. Whether navigating the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or driving through quieter rural areas, following these rules ensures not just compliance but also safer journeys for all. Encouraging safer driving habits is an effort that benefits every commuter on Vietnam's roads.