Driving a motorcycle in Vietnam

In Vietnam, some of the roads are well maintained and busy, while others are small, single-lane roads. Here are some types of roads that connect cities.

A1 National Road (Quoc Lo A1 - QLA1): This is the main highway connecting the southern, central and northern regions. In general, this route should be avoided for traveling. However, to save time entering and leaving cities, the national road can be useful and is the fastest way to get from A to B.

National Road (Quoc lo - QL): The national roads are generally in good condition and always paved.

Highway (Cao toc - CT): Motorcycles are prohibited. The exception to the rule is the CT08 in Hanoi, where they allow motorcycles.

Country Road (Duong tinh - DT): These are usually in reasonable condition. However, some DT roads are very difficult.

Very small road (Tinh lo - TL): Normally, these roads that connect the villages are single track.

Expect to drive occasionally on medium to poor roads, as well as heavy traffic. Vietnamese drivers are a bit calmer than other Southeast Asian countries. Most trucks honk then pay attention to other bikers. If you are not sure they can see you, warn them using your horn. This applies particularly to winding mountain roads, as there are several blind corners. Make sure that the traffic in the opposite direction can hear you!

Driving in Saigon and Hanoi can seem intimidating, but the speed of traffic is low and security is generally assured. If you need to cross the traffic in the opposite direction, do it slowly and resolutely.

Be aware of the weather. In a torrential rain, a good road can quickly become slippery and dangerous. So please consider this when you decide to travel in bad weather.

101 - Forbidden Highway

102 - Forbidden to drive in the opposite direction

104 - Motorcycles prohibited

123 - Forbidden to turn left

124a - Forbidden to turn

130 - Forbidden to stop and park

131a - Forbidden to park

201a - Dangerous turning point

203b - Narrow road on the left

219 - Dangerous slope

221 - Bumpy road

222 - Smooth route

242 - Road where accidents often occur

301a - Go straight

301d - Vehicles can only turn right

306 - Minimum speed

309 - Honk

407b - One way street

405b - Impasse on the left

408 - Parking place

427 - Repair Station

433 - Tourist place

436 - Traffic police station

437 - Highway

438 - End of the highway