Car Rental in Vietnam for Canadian Travelers

Planning your journey through Vietnam via car rental? Here's everything Canadian travelers need to know.

Can I drive in Vietnam with my Canadian driver's license?
What insurance coverage should I consider when renting a car in Vietnam?
What are the approximate costs of car rentals in Vietnam?
Are round trips mandatory, or can I do one-way car rentals?
How do Vietnam's driving rules and road conditions differ from Canada's?

This guide covers all you need to confidently navigate Vietnam's roads, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. A quick-reference table is included to summarize the essential details for your convenience.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Nicaragua?

Yes, Canadian travelers can legally drive in Nicaragua with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Please note that an International Driving Permit(IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. For drivers aged 23-24, a young driver fee of US$ 35.00 per day applies.

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Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore various car rental options suitable for travelers from Canada visiting Vietnam.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You seek international reliability
You need comprehensive insurance options
You prefer English-speaking customer support
You plan to travel extensively across different cities

Choose Local Brands If:

You want more cost-effective solutions
You plan to stay primarily within urban areas
You are interested in unique, local vehicle options
You are comfortable with localized customer service

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Canada and Vietnam
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with different driving conditions
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Canadian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and extensive travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
coastal routes, rural areas
Vacation
SUV/Van with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
beach destinations, family trips

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

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No hidden fees
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Exploring Vibrant Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a wide array of captivating destinations, from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil scenery of Ha Long Bay. Travelers can explore these iconic locations through various car rental options, providing flexibility and comfort for their journey.

Car Rental Insurance Options for Travelers from CA to VN

When renting a car in Vietnam, it is crucial to have the appropriate insurance to ensure peace of mind and compliance with local regulations. Understanding the available coverage options can help you make an informed decision.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental vehicle in case of an accident or collision.
CAD $20-35/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage in the event the rental car is stolen.
CAD $10-15/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
Covers damages or injury caused to third parties and their property.
Often included in rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of accidents.
CAD $7-12/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Vietnam. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $5,382.35

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$500.00 - $5,382.35

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Vietnam

Travelers from Canada visiting Vietnam can follow these tips to save on car rental expenses while ensuring a smooth and affordable travel experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Secure your rental car well in advance to lock in lower rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Save up to 25%
Compare Rental Agencies
Utilize platforms like QEEQ or Rentalcars.com to compare prices and offers from multiple providers.
Save up to 20%
Avoid Hidden Fees
Read the rental agreement carefully to understand additional charges such as insurance, mileage limits, and taxes.
Save $50-100
Fuel Policy Optimization
Opt for rental cars with a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid high refueling charges.
Save $20-40

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
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One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Vietnam.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of additional charges that might not be included upfront.
- Airport location surcharges
- Additional driver fees
- Excess mileage charges
- Fees for returning the car to a different location
- Insurance add-ons
Insurance Options
Check the types of insurance offered and their necessity.
- Third-party liability coverage
- Collision damage waiver (CDW)
- Personal accident insurance
- Assess existing insurance coverage from credit cards or travel policies
- Avoid unnecessary duplicate insurance
Fuel Policies
Understand how fuel charges are managed to avoid unexpected costs.
- Full-to-full policy is generally preferred
- Confirm fuel level at pickup
- Prepaid fuel options may be more expensive
- Seek nearby fuel stations before returning the car
Vehicle Inspection
Inspect the car thoroughly before driving off to avoid disputes.
- Check and document any existing damage
- Verify the functionality of lights, brakes, and electronics
- Take photos of the car’s condition
- Ensure the interior is clean and damage-free
Contract Terms
Carefully review the rental agreement to understand all terms.
- Mileage restrictions and allowable areas
- Specific return policies and timelines
- Penalties for early or late returns
- Cancellation and modification fees
Pickup and Return Times
Choose optimal times for car pickup and return to avoid inconvenience.
- Plan pickups during daylight hours for thorough inspection
- Allow for delays in urban traffic conditions
- Early returns might not be refunded
- Late returns could incur additional charges

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between Canadian and Vietnamese Traffic Rules

Canadian and Vietnamese traffic rules differ significantly in road behavior, vehicle priority, and enforcement, with some shared principles like seatbelt usage and mobile phone restrictions.

Driving Side
VN
Drive on the right side of the road
CA
Drive on the right side of the road
Traffic Cameras
VN
Common in urban areas to monitor and enforce traffic
CA
Used in most urban centers
Alcohol Limits
VN
Strict enforcement, typically 0.05% BAC
CA
Legal limit is 0.08% BAC in most provinces
Motorbike Usage
VN
Motorbikes widely used and prioritized
CA
Less common and not prioritized
Traffic Lights
VN
Adherence varies, especially by region
CA
Strict adherence to traffic signals
Pedestrian Crossings
VN
Pedestrians often do not have automatic right-of-way
CA
Pedestrians typically have right-of-way
Parking Rules
VN
Parking in designated areas only
CA
Regulated parking with clear signage
Remember
- • Always carry your international driving permit (IDP) along with your Canadian license when driving in Vietnam.
- • Watch out for motorbikes; they dominate the roads and have varying adherence to rules.
- • Seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and passengers in both countries.
- • Traffic enforcement in Vietnam may include random checks, so ensure all documents are up-to-date.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Canada renting a car in Vietnam

Can I drive in Vietnam with my Canadian provincial driver’s license?

No, your Canadian provincial driver’s license is not directly recognized in Vietnam. Driving with it alone is considered unlicensed driving and can lead to serious legal consequences and insurance invalidation.

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP), and do I need one to drive in Vietnam?

Yes, you need an IDP to drive in Vietnam. An IDP is a multilingual translation of your home license and must be carried alongside your Canadian license. However, only IDPs based on the 1968 Vienna Convention are legally valid in Vietnam.

Is a CAA-issued IDP from Canada valid in Vietnam?

Technically, no. Canada issues IDPs under the 1949 Geneva Convention, while Vietnam recognizes only the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. Legally, your CAA IDP is not fully valid, though some rental agencies may accept it at their own risk.

What does it mean if my CAA IDP isn’t legally valid?

If your IDP isn’t valid, rental companies might still rent you a car, but you risk fines, having no insurance coverage, and being held fully liable in accidents. Police may also penalize you for unlicensed driving.

How can a Canadian tourist legally drive in Vietnam?

The only fully legal way is to obtain a Vietnamese driver’s license, which requires a visa valid for over three months and a complex conversion process. Most tourists rely on their Canadian license plus an IDP, accepting the legal gray area and associated risks.

Is the insurance provided by rental companies enough, or should I buy extra?

Rental companies usually offer basic collision damage waiver and third-party liability. It’s strongly recommended to purchase full insurance or reduce deductibles and to check if your travel insurance covers self-driving abroad—most don’t.

What is the minimum age to drive in Vietnam?

The legal minimum age is 18. Most international rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 or 23, and may charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

What happens if I drive without all required documents (passport, original license, IDP)?

You’ll be considered unlicensed, subject to heavy fines, possible vehicle impoundment, and no insurance coverage in case of an accident.

How do Vietnamese traffic laws differ from Canada’s?

Key differences include unclear right-of-way, roundabout rules where first-in has priority, and a strict zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving (no alcohol allowed).

What insurance exclusions should I watch out for?

Exclusions usually cover tires, glass, undercarriage damage, off-road driving, accidents while breaking laws (like speeding or drunk driving), and complications from the IDP legal issue.

Where should I book my rental car in Vietnam? Any recommended platforms?

Use QEEQ, an international car rental comparison and booking platform. It offers an English interface, transparent pricing, and lets you compare both international and local providers for convenience and clarity.

What is the booking process like on QEEQ?

You search your pick-up/drop-off locations, dates, compare cars and prices, choose your vehicle and insurance, fill in your details, pay online by card, and receive a booking confirmation to print or save.

What documents do I need to present when picking up a rental car?

Bring your passport with visa, your Canadian driver’s license, your IDP, the credit card used for booking (for deposit), and your rental confirmation.

How much is the typical rental deposit?

Deposits range from $500 to $1,500 USD or more, pre-authorized on your credit card and released after safe return of the car. Ensure your card has enough limit.

What type of car should I rent for driving in Vietnam?

Compact cars or small SUVs are best, as streets and parking spaces are narrow. Large cars are cumbersome in Vietnamese cities and rural roads.

What is usually included in the rental price—and what isn’t?

Included: rental fee, basic insurance, often unlimited mileage. Not included: fuel, tolls, parking, extra driver, GPS, child seats, one-way fees, and taxes.

How important is it to check the car for damage before driving off?

Very important! Photograph all scratches and dents, have the rental staff note them on the inspection sheet, and keep a copy yourself to avoid false damage claims later.

What is the fuel policy for rentals in Vietnam?

Most use a full-to-full policy: pick up with a full tank, return it full. Keep your last fuel receipt or be charged extra for refueling at inflated rates.

Can I pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes, this is called a one-way rental, but expect a significant extra fee. QEEQ allows you to filter and check these costs during booking.

Are automatic cars easy to rent in Vietnam?

Yes, automatics are common in major cities and from international agencies, but manuals may predominate at small local companies or in remote areas. Specify 'automatic' when booking.

What is Vietnamese traffic really like?

Think of a river of thousands of motorbikes constantly weaving through traffic. Cars move slowly amidst this flow. Extreme patience, anticipation, and focus are essential.

Why do Vietnamese drivers honk so much? Is it aggressive?

No, honking isn’t aggressive—it’s a form of communication, like saying 'I’m here' or 'I’m passing.' Use your horn to signal presence, not anger.

How do city and rural roads differ?

City roads are congested, dominated by motorbikes, with scarce parking. Rural or mountain roads can shift from smooth pavement to rough dirt, with narrow lanes, sharp bends, and roaming animals.

Is there a concept of right-of-way in Vietnam?

Legally yes, but in practice, 'might makes right'—bigger vehicles have priority, and you should always drive defensively, expecting no one to yield.

Is it safe to drive at night in Vietnam?

Strongly discouraged, especially outside cities. Rural roads lack lighting, vehicles may have dim or no lights, and animals or pedestrians are hard to see.

What are Vietnamese expressways like?

Modern expressways connect major cities, have toll booths (mostly cash), and are the best option for long trips. Still, expect occasional wrong-way scooters or pedestrians.

Is parking easy in Vietnamese cities?

No, legal street parking is rare and often occupied by motorbikes. Use paid parking lots or hotel/shopping center garages. Illegally parked cars risk fines or wheel locks.

How do I navigate roundabouts in Vietnam?

Forget Western roundabout etiquette. Usually, entering vehicles are more aggressive. Slow down, observe, honk to signal, and merge carefully and decisively.

What are the typical speed limits?

Generally, 50-60 km/h in towns, 80-90 km/h on highways, and up to 120 km/h on expressways. Signs may be unclear, so follow local traffic speed.

What road hazards should I watch out for besides motorbikes?

Beware of sudden flooding, landslides in rainy season, trucks taking up your lane on curves, and pedestrians or bikes darting out unexpectedly.

What should I do if I get into a traffic accident?

Stay calm, move to safety, turn on hazards, call your rental company’s emergency line, don’t settle privately (especially if injuries are involved), call police (113), take photos, and don’t admit fault.

What should I do if stopped by police?

Be polite, keep hands visible, show your passport, license, IDP, and car papers. Use a translation app if needed. If asked for an on-the-spot fine, remain calm and cooperative.

What if my rental car breaks down on the road?

Call the rental company’s emergency number for roadside assistance. Don’t attempt repairs or use unauthorized garages, as this may violate your rental agreement.

How can I avoid rental car scams?

Most common scam: being charged for pre-existing damage. Prevent this by thoroughly photographing the car at pick-up. Always book through reputable platforms like QEEQ and avoid suspiciously cheap street-side agencies.

How strict are Vietnam’s drunk driving laws?

Extremely strict—zero tolerance. Any alcohol in your system will result in heavy fines, license suspension, or even jail. Never drink and drive.

Is refueling easy, and what type of fuel should I use?

Fuel stations are widespread. Most rentals use gasoline ('Xăng'), typically RON 95 or RON 92. Confirm the required fuel type with your rental agent.

How are road tolls paid in Vietnam?

Most tolls require cash in local currency (VND). Keep small bills handy. Some new expressways use electronic payment, but rentals may not have the necessary device.

What if I get lost while driving?

Use Google Maps or Waze; both are accurate in Vietnam. Download offline maps in advance. If lost, pull over safely and ask locals for help—use translation apps or gestures.

What should I keep in the car?

Bottled water, snacks, a phone charger, phone mount, first-aid kit, flashlight, and enough Vietnamese dong in small denominations.

Should I worry about car theft or break-ins?

Car theft is rare in tourist areas, but don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Always use guarded parking lots when possible.

Is hiring a car with a driver better than self-driving?

For most Canadian visitors, yes. A local driver spares you legal risks and traffic stress, doubles as a guide and translator, and greatly enhances safety and comfort.

Is hiring a car with a driver much more expensive than self-driving?

Daily rates (about $50-100 USD, including car, driver, and fuel) are higher than car-only rentals, but factoring in potential fines, repairs, and stress, hiring a driver is often better value.

Is Grab (like Uber) reliable in Vietnam?

Yes, Grab is very popular in major cities for both cars and bikes. It’s safe, fares are fixed and cashless, and it’s the top option for city travel.

Can I rent and self-drive a motorbike?

Unless you have extensive motorbike experience in Canada, it’s not recommended. Vietnamese traffic is hazardous for newcomers. You also need the proper license and IDP category for insurance to be valid.

How are Vietnam’s train and long-distance bus services?

Excellent for city-to-city travel. The north-south train offers scenic rides and sleeper options. Sleeper buses are affordable and connect most destinations, letting you relax and enjoy the views.

What about domestic flights in Vietnam?

For long distances (e.g., Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang), domestic flights are fast and cheap, operated by VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines.

What routes are best for self-driving in Vietnam?

If you insist on driving, scenic and less busy routes like the coastal road from Da Nang/Hoi An to Hue via Hai Van Pass, or Ha Giang’s motorbike loop (for very advanced riders) are top picks.

What’s the one-sentence takeaway for driving in Vietnam?

Let go of your rule-based expectations, flow like water, and always assume other drivers may do the most unpredictable thing at any moment.

Is there a compromise for those wanting some driving freedom?

Consider renting a car for a short time in simple areas like Phu Quoc or Con Dao islands, or mix self-driving on select scenic stretches with guided transport for the rest.

Should I rent a car and self-drive in Vietnam as a typical Canadian tourist?

Think twice—95% of visitors are better off not driving. Legal risks, traffic chaos, and safety issues outweigh the 'freedom.' Hire a local driver or use public transport to best enjoy Vietnam.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Vietnam for Canadian Travelers

Planning your journey through Vietnam via car rental? Here's everything Canadian travelers need to know.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Nicaragua?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Exploring Vibrant Destinations in Vietnam

Car Rental Insurance Options for Travelers from CA to VN

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Vietnam

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between Canadian and Vietnamese Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations