tuan-motorbike-logo

🛵 How to Rent a Motorbike in Vietnam (Safely & Legally) – 2025 Guide

Vietnam is one of the best countries in the world for exploring on two wheels. Whether you're weaving through the Old Quarter of Hanoi or riding the Hai Van Pass, nothing beats the freedom of a motorbike. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to understand how to rent a bike safely and legally in Vietnam. Here’s everything you need to know — from licenses to insurance to avoiding common scams.

Tien Le's avatar
Written by
Tien Le
Image

✅ 1. What You Need to Rent a Motorbike in Vietnam

To rent a motorbike in Vietnam as a foreigner, you’ll typically need:

  • A passport (original or copy)
  • A valid driver’s license from your home country
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) – with A category for motorcycles

⚠️ Important: Not all IDPs are accepted. Vietnam recognizes IDPs under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Some licenses (like U.S. state ones without IDP) are technically not valid.

If you don’t have an IDP, many local shops will still rent you a bike — but you won’t be legally covered in case of accidents or police checks.

Image

📝 2. Types of Motorbikes for Rent

Vietnam offers a wide range of motorbikes. Choose one that fits your skill and comfort level:

ImageImage

📍 3. Where to Rent a Motorbike in Vietnam

Here are your options:

✅ Local rental shops

  • Best value and flexible options
  • Some offer one-way rental (e.g., Hanoi → Hoi An)

✅ Online rental platforms

  • Book in advance, check reviews
  • Higher prices but more reliability

✅ Hostels & hotels

  • Convenient, but often older bikes or higher fees

💡 Pro tip: Look for businesses with good Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews. Avoid shops that keep your passport as a deposit — always ask for alternatives (cash deposit, copy of ID).

🧾 4. Legal & Safety Requirements

✅ Always wear a helmet

This is legally required in Vietnam. You can be fined if caught without one — and worse, risk your life.

✅ Check the bike before riding:

  • Brakes, lights, horn, tires
  • Ask for a short test ride

✅ Don’t ride drunk or without a license

If you’re in an accident and don’t have the proper license, your travel insurance may not cover you — even if it's not your fault.

Image

💸 5. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Bike?

  • Standard scooter (110cc): $6–$15/day
  • Manual motorbike (125cc): $10–$30/day
  • Touring bikes / big bikes: $20–$40+/day
  • Long-term rentals (1 week or more) often come with discounts.

Look out for:

  • Included extras: Helmet, raincoat, phone holder
  • Hidden fees: Late returns, scratches, cleaning

❌ 6. Common Rental Scams (And How to Avoid Them)

  1. Damage scam: They blame you for pre-existing damage → Take photos & video before riding
  2. Poor-quality bikes: Shops rent out unsafe bikes → Check Google reviews, don’t rush
  3. Passport holding: Some shops keep your passport → Avoid this; offer a deposit instead
Image

📦 7. Extras You Should Ask For

  • Phone mount (essential for Google Maps)
  • Rain poncho (especially in rainy season: May–Oct)
  • Bungee cords or racks (if carrying a backpack)

🧠 Final Tips Before You Ride

  • Get a Vietnamese SIM card with 4G
  • Download offline Google Maps or Maps.me
  • Use a VPN when booking online
  • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: "đổ xăng" (get gas), "xe hư" (bike broken), "bao nhiêu tiền?" (how much?)

📞 Ready to Ride?

If you're looking for a safe, legal, and friendly motorbike rental in Vietnam with 24/7 support, new bikes, and one-way options, check out:

👉 Tuan Motorbike Rental Hanoi – Trusted by travelers since 2017 📍 Branches in Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An.

Image

Share this article