Self-Driving in Cao Bang: What You Need to Prepare
Self-driving in Cao Bang gives you the freedom to explore mountain roads, traditional villages, and beautiful landscapes at your own pace. Before renting a motorbike, check your driving documents, choose a bike that matches your experience, and prepare for mountain riding.
1. Which Driving Documents Do You Need?
International driving permits are valid in Vietnam, in accordance with the 1968 Vienna Convention to which Vietnam is a party.
Foreign visitors using an International Driving Permit in Vietnam must carry:
- A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention by an authorised issuing body.
- Their original, valid national driving licence, covering the vehicle they intend to drive.
You must carry both documents while driving. An IDP does not replace your national licence, and a car-only licence does not authorise you to ride a motorcycle.
Certain foreign licences may be recognised under separate international agreements. Check whether this applies to your licence before travelling.
Do not assume an “International Driving License” purchased online is valid in Vietnam. Check the issuing authority, applicable convention, and permitted vehicle categories.
91 Countries That Are Parties to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic:
| Country | Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albania | Andorra | Armenia | Austria |
| Azerbaijan | Bahamas | Bahrain | Belarus |
| Belgium | Benin | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Brazil |
| Bulgaria | Cabo Verde | Central African Republic | Côte d’Ivoire |
| Croatia | Cuba | Czech Republic | Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Denmark | Egypt | El Salvador | Estonia |
| Ethiopia | Finland | France | Georgia |
| Germany | Greece | Guyana | Honduras |
| Hungary | Iran | Iraq | Israel |
| Italy | Kazakhstan | Kenya | Kuwait |
| Kyrgyzstan | Latvia | Liberia | Liechtenstein |
| Lithuania | Luxembourg | Maldives | Monaco |
| Mongolia | Montenegro | Morocco | Myanmar |
| Netherlands | Niger | Nigeria | North Macedonia |
| Norway | Oman | Pakistan | Peru |
| Philippines | Poland | Portugal | Qatar |
| Moldova | Romania | Russia | San Marino |
| Saudi Arabia | Senegal | Serbia | Seychelles |
| Slovakia | Slovenia | South Africa | Palestine |
| Sweden | Switzerland | Tajikistan | Thailand |
| Tunisia | Türkiye | Turkmenistan | Uganda |
| Ukraine | United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom | Uruguay |
| Uzbekistan | Vietnam | Zimbabwe |
Source: United Nations Treaty Collection — 91 parties, updated 10 October 2026.
2. Choosing a Motorbike for Cao Bang
Choose a motorbike you already know how to ride confidently.
| Motorbike | Type | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Air Blade 125cc or 150cc | Automatic scooter | Riders experienced with automatic scooters |
| Honda Future 125cc | Semi-automatic motorcycle; foot-operated gears without a hand clutch | Riders comfortable changing gears |
| Honda XR150L 150cc | Manual motorcycle with a hand clutch | Riders experienced with manual motorcycles and mountain roads |
Does Your Licence Cover a 125cc or 150cc Motorbike?
Under Vietnam’s current licensing categories:
- Newly issued A1 licences: cover two-wheeled motorcycles up to 125cc.
- Category A licences: cover motorcycles over 125cc, as well as those covered by A1.
Vietnamese A1 licences issued before 2025 have separate transitional rules. If you use a foreign licence and IDP, check their motorcycle entitlement, engine-capacity limits, and any automatic-only restrictions.
A rental company agreeing to hand over a motorbike does not confirm that you are legally entitled to ride it.
3. What to Check Before Setting Off
Before collecting your motorbike:
- Check the vehicle registration and valid compulsory insurance.
- Test the brakes, lights, and horn; inspect the tyres and mirrors.
- Choose a properly fitting helmet and fasten the strap.
- Bring a raincoat, closed-toe shoes, drinking water, and offline maps.
- Save the rental provider’s contact number.
Cao Bang’s mountain roads include steep slopes and sharp bends. Ride slowly, leave enough space, avoid unfamiliar roads after dark, and take breaks when tired. Do not drive after drinking alcohol.
4. No Suitable Licence? Choose an Easy Rider or Private Car
You can still enjoy Cao Bang if you do not have the required driving documents or feel uncomfortable riding mountain roads.
Easy Rider — a motorbike with a driver: ride as a passenger with an experienced driver while enjoying the scenery and fresh mountain air.
Private car with a driver: a comfortable option for couples, families, or friends who prefer protection from the weather and more space for luggage.
As a passenger, you do not need a driving licence for the vehicle. Choose a reputable provider and agree on the itinerary before departure.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorbike with a car-only driving licence?
No. Your licence must authorise you to ride the motorcycle you intend to use.
Is an IDP enough without my national driving licence?
No. When using an IDP under the 1968 Vienna Convention, you must also carry your valid national licence with the appropriate vehicle entitlement.
What if I have never ridden a motorbike before?
Choose an Easy Rider or a private car with a driver. Cao Bang’s mountain roads are unsuitable for learning to ride for the first time.
Need Help Planning Your Journey?
Unsure whether to choose a rental motorbike, an Easy Rider, or a private car with a driver?
PIA Homestay can help with information about vehicle options, local routes, and transport arrangements suited to your needs.
Contact on WhatsApp: +84 973 473 988