Introduction

Everyone riding a motorbike in Vietnam needs two things: a domestic motorbike license and a 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP). Italy is a slightly unusual case — unlike most of its EU neighbours, Italy actually issues both the 1949 and 1968 conventions, so it’s worth knowing which one to ask for before you travel.

The 1949 and 1968 International Driving Permit

There are two IDP conventions in use internationally, and Vietnam only recognises the 1968 (Vienna Convention) version. Most EU countries only issue the 1968 version by default, but Italy is one of the few that offers both — the 1949 (Geneva) version is valid for 1 year, while the 1968 version is valid for up to 3 years. Which one you get can depend on how you apply, so make sure you specifically ask for the 1968 Vienna Convention permit when you apply.

You apply at the provincial office of the Motorizzazione Civile, or through an intermediary — a driving school, a practice agency, or the ACI (Automobile Club d’Italia) — who can handle the paperwork for you. Official fees come to around €42 (motor authority rights, stamp tax and stamp duty combined), plus photos, and typically another €50–100 if you use an agency to handle it. You’ll need your original Italian license, a photocopy, passport-style photos, and the Model TT 746 form. Processing usually takes 15–20 working days, so it’s worth applying 4–8 weeks before you travel.

Domestic License & Italy’s A1/A2/A Classes

Italy follows the EU motorcycle license structure, based on power output rather than a simple cc split:

•         A1 — up to 125cc and 11kW, minimum age 16
•         A2 — up to 35kW, minimum age 18
•         A — unrestricted, minimum age 24 (or 20 if you’ve held an A2 for at least 2 years and pass a practical test on a 600cc+/50kW bike)

Vietnam’s system is simpler — just A1 (50–125cc) and full A (anything over 125cc) — so there’s no direct match for the A2 category. In practice this isn’t an issue: if you hold an A2 or full A license and your 1968 IDP carries the A stamp, you’re covered for any bike size in Vietnam. Only an A1 license restricts you to Vietnam’s 125cc A1 class.

When you apply for your IDP, double check that the stamp matches your actual license category (A1, or A for A2/A holders) — this is what determines what you’re covered to ride here.

Where You’re Likely to Be Checked

The Ha Giang Loop is where document checks actually happen, and police there specifically know the difference between a 1949 and a 1968 IDP. Elsewhere in Vietnam, checks are far less common. Riding without valid documents typically results in a fine of 2–3 million VND (roughly $80–120 USD), though we’ve heard of fines as high as 7 million VND.

Travel Insurance

Even with the right paperwork for Vietnam, it’s worth checking directly with your travel insurance provider on exactly what they require — requirements vary and don’t always match Vietnam’s legal minimum.

Summary: What Italians Need

•         An Italian motorbike license matching your engine size (A2 or full A for anything over 125cc)
•         A 1968 (Vienna Convention) IDP with the matching A1 or A stamp — specifically ask for this version, not the 1949 one
•         Confirmation from your travel insurer on what they require

Need a Motorbike for Your Vietnam Trip?

Not sure exactly what your license covers, or what you’ll need to rent with us? Get in touch — WhatsApp, email, or through our website — and we’ll help you sort it out before you arrive. Style Motorbikes — your adventure starts here.