What License Do I Need to Ride the Ha Giang Loop in 2025?

So, you’re thinking of self-riding the Ha Giang Loop in 2025? Winding mountain passes, misty valleys, narrow cliffside roads, and wholesome interactions with curious locals—yeah, we get the appeal. 

But before you start, let’s hit the brakes for a second: do you have the right license to ride the Ha Giang Loop legally?

Because, while riding without a license was once a common (if technically illegal) possibility, 2025 has changed the game. 

Stricter police checkpoints, steeper fines, and tighter insurance conditions mean the risks of going rogue are higher than in previous years.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what license you need to ride the Ha Giang Loop in 2025, why those requirements matter (spoiler: it’s not just about dodging police), and what your options are if you don’t have one. 

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to prepare so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying the journey!

Can You Ride the Ha Giang Loop Without a License in 2025?

Let’s cut to the chase: in the past, loads of travelers were riding the Loop without a license and getting away with it. 

A cheeky grin at a checkpoint, a quick “no English,” the handing over of a KitKat Chunky and they’d be waved through. Or they’d never get stopped at all.

However, as of 2025, new regulations have made it impossible to ride the Ha Giang Loop without a license—and get away with it!

P.S. Just so we’re clear—Bong Hostel didn’t make the rules. You’d think that goes without saying, but our team (including our lovely Easy Riders) often ends up catching the heat when guests get frustrated. 

We’re not here to control your choices—we’re just here to help you steer clear of steep fines and trip-ruining surprises. So if we say “no,” it’s not to spoil your fun—it’s to keep your adventure on track.

While we didn’t make the rules, we sure can tell you all about them here: New Traffic Laws in Vietnam 2025: What Travelers Need to Know.

What Happens If You Ride Without a License in 2025?

Why Some Travelers Take the Risk

But people still ride without a license… right? 

Of course! Ha Giang is still full of wide-eyed tourists who take one look at those mountain views and say, “YOLO, who needs a license, anyway?”

Maybe your mate did it last year and said it was “totally fine.” Maybe that Aussie guy (no shade) you met on the bus to Ha Giang is planning to wing it. 

And sure, plenty of people still take the risk every single day. But here’s the thing: 2025 isn’t 2024 and the risk is getting riskier.

The Repercussions in 2025 

Police presence along the Loop is stronger than ever as Vietnamese authorities crack down on unlicensed riders.

Fines that used to hover around 500,000–1,000,000 VND (€20–€40) have been jacked up to a minimum of 3 million VND (€120). 

And that’s each time they stop you. If they stop you more than once over the course of your 4 days 3 nights loop (and they can!) that’s a serious chunk of money! 

Worse still, police can now confiscate your motorbike (and your passport!) on the spot. To get it back you have to pay an additional 5 million VND, on top of the fine!

Imagine being stuck halfway up Ma Pi Leng Pass with no ride, no plan, and no way to get your bike back without paying extra fees and navigating a mountain of paperwork? 

Not exactly the carefree adventure you signed up for!

Police Checkpoints in 2025: No, You Won’t Sneak Through

There’s a persistent rumor that you can “just avoid the checkpoints” if you time things right. Trust us—we hear it constantly at Bong Hostel. And sure, in theory, you might get lucky and slip through one or two.

But here’s the kicker: they’re everywhere now. From Quan Ba to Dong Van, checkpoints are posted at key pinch-points along the loop, especially near Ma Pi Leng and Meo Vac. 

These aren’t just occasional patrols—they’re full-on, motorbike-stopping, paper-checking operations stationed every 50 km or so. Do you really want to spend your whole Ha Giang Loop tour on edge, anticipating the next checkpoint?

And even if you slip through, or someone with a license drives you across the checkpoint—I’ve literally seen the police chase guests three kilometers down the road after getting suspicious.

So if you're thinking, “But my friend rode the Loop last year and didn’t get stopped,” here’s your friendly reminder: the game has changed, and the odds are not in your favor.

Why Riding the Loop with the Right License Matters 

Safety on Challenging Terrain

The Ha Giang Loop isn’t just a scenic drive—it presents technical challenges that can overwhelm riders who lack training:

• Sharp hairpin turns require precise throttle and brake control.

• Steep ascents and descents test clutch skills on manual transmissions.

• Narrow cliffside roads demand steady balance and focus.

• Sudden weather changes can turn pavement slippery in minutes.

A proper motorcycle license indicates you have demonstrated basic competency under controlled conditions. It’s not just a stamp; it’s evidence that you know how to handle the bike in unexpected situations. 

When you’re navigating a blind turn at 1,500 meters elevation, those skills can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a serious accident. And that is why Vietnamese authorities are cracking down!

Related article: Is the Ha Giang Loop Dangerous for First-Time Riders? 

Insurance Coverage

Almost no travel insurance policy will cover motorbike accidents involving unlicensed riders. That means if you crash—whether you’re injured, damage the bike, or both—you pay for hospital bills, rescue operations, and repair costs from your own pocket. 

In 2023, one traveler without a proper license suffered a broken leg, and his insurance company refused coverage. The medical and evacuation bills exceeded €3,000, effectively doubling his total trip budget overnight.

Having the correct International Driving Permit (IDP) ensures you remain eligible for these protections. Should you need urgent care or a medical evacuation, your insurer will step in rather than leaving you with a massive bill.

Related article: What is the Best Insurance for the Ha Giang Loop?

Don't snooze on your research---you could get a big fine!

What License Do You Need to Ride the Ha Giang Loop in 2025?

To ride the Ha Giang Loop legally in 2025, here’s what you’ll need.

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1968 Vienna Convention.

• The IDP must have the A1 Stamp (that’s for motorbikes).

• The IDP needs to be paired with your National License—valid and current.

National Motorcycle License

First and foremost, that old myth that you can ride a 125cc scooter if you have a car license? Doesn’t work in Vietnam. You must hold a valid motorcycle license from your home country. In most places, this means:

• For two-wheeled vehicles up to 125cc, a category A1 license.

• For motorcycles over 125cc, a full category A license.

Important tip: Make sure your license is current, not expired, and that it specifically includes motorcycles.

International Driving Permit (1968 Vienna Convention)

Vietnam only recognizes IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. The older 1949 Geneva Convention permits are not accepted here. It's like signing into your Disney+ account with your Netflix details.

Your IDP must explicitly include the A1 stamp, which is the motorcycle category (often labeled as Category A). To obtain this stamp:

1. Verify eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid national motorcycle license.

2. Gather documents: Original license, passport copy, passport-style photos, completed application form.

3. Pay the fee: Typically between $15 and $30 USD, depending on the issuing authority.

4. Submit either online through your country’s automobile association (e.g., AA or RAC in the UK, AAA in the US, CAA in Canada) or in person at a designated office (I got mine from the post office in the UK).

5. Allow processing time: Even “same-day” promises can stretch to a week or more during busy seasons. Apply at least two weeks before your departure date.

Your IDP remains valid from 1 to 3 years from the date of issue, as long as your national license remains current.

Attempting to Get an IDP in Vietnam: Why It’s Not Simple

Foreign embassies in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City do not issue legal IDPs to tourists. A handful of private expat services claim they can process one on your behalf, but these are often unreliable or outright fraudulent. 

If you arrive in Vietnam without the proper IDP, your safest bet is to arrange an Easy Rider service or private car tour rather than try to secure official documents locally.

International Driving Permit (1968 Convention) complete with A1 stamp

Beyond the License: Planning the Perfect Loop

When is the Best Time to Ride the Ha Giang Loop

• Best season: October to November for dry roads and blooming buckwheat flowers; March to April for mild weather and clear skies.

• Monsoon: June to September can bring heavy rains, landslides, and impassable sections. Only attempt if you’re highly experienced and well equipped.

Read more here: Rain or Shine: Your Guide to Ha Giang Loop Weather.

Renting the Right Bike: Models, Rates, and Rental Tips

Once your licensing is squared away, choosing a reliable rental bike becomes your next priority. Rental shops in Ha Giang prioritize customers with valid licenses and IDPs. Expect to pay daily rates of:

• Yamaha 110cc: 150,000–200,000 VND/day (around €6–€8)

• Honda Winner 150cc: 300,000–350,000 VND/day (around €11–€13)

• Honda XR150cc: 500,000–600,000 VND/day (around €18–€22)

What to Check Before You Ride Off

1. Brakes: Squeeze both front and rear to confirm responsiveness.

2. Tyres: Inspect tread depth and look for cracks or bulges.

3. Lights and Signals: Test headlights, brake lights, and indicators.

4. Clutch and Throttle: Ensure smooth engagement and return.

5. Overall Condition: Look for oil leaks, loose bolts, or rusted chains.

A reputable shop will record any pre-existing scratches or dents in the rental agreement. If a shop resists documenting the bike’s flaws, look elsewhere. You don’t want to be blamed for damage you didn’t cause.

Pssst! Even if damages are recorded, always take pictures of the bike beforehand so you have evidence of any pre-existing damages.

Accommodation Options

From homestays with local families to budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Ha Giang City, Yon Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac—you can tailor your lodging to match your comfort needs and budget. 

Top tip: Booking ahead in peak season is wise.

Local Culture and Ethics

• Ask before photographing families or rituals.

• Support local businesses: buy fruit, crafts, or snacks from village stalls.

• Respect religious sites: remove hats and shoes where required.

Related article: North Vietnam Travel Tips: 30 Essential Tips for Travelers in 2025.

Expert Riding Tips for a Smooth Ha Giang Loop

• Gear Up Completely: Full-face helmet, padded jacket, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots. Local shops sell lightweight rain gear—bring it even if the forecast is clear.

• Fuel Strategy: Fill up whenever you see a station. Pumps can be over forty kilometers apart. Running out on a mountain pass is neither convenient nor safe.

• Pace Yourself: The Loop is meant to be savored. Average speeds of 30–40 km/h are common. Aiming to cover too much ground in one day increases fatigue and accident risk.

• Mind Local Traffic: Buffalo and goats roam free. Truckers use the same narrow roads. Always yield to uphill traffic and signal early.

• Weather Watch: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Fog, rain, and even hail can appear without warning. In wet conditions, reduce speed by at least 20% and avoid sudden braking.

Related article: 10+ Tips to Help You Stay Safe on the Ha Giang Loop.

How to Do the Ha Giang Loop Without an IDP

So you’ve made it to Vietnam, only to realize you don’t have the right license or an International Driving Permit (IDP)? Don’t stress—and definitely don’t give up on doing the Ha Giang Loop.

At Bong Hostel, we’ve helped hundreds of travelers ride the Ha Giang Loop without ever touching the handlebars—safely, legally, and with just as much adventure.

Ride the Loop with an Easy Rider

Our Easy Rider option pairs you with a licensed, experienced local driver who takes care of the riding, so you can:

• Skip the license and paperwork entirely.

• Sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about fines or police checkpoints.

• Learn about local culture, food, and history from someone who actually grew up in the region.

• Snap photos from the back of the bike while winding through Ma Pi Leng Pass—safely!

Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, you can:

• Join one of our small group tours (a great way to meet fellow adventurers), or

• Book a private tour for a more personal pace and itinerary.

Related article: Surprise Your Partner with a Private Ha Giang Loop Tour.

Opt for a Private Car Tour

If you prefer four wheels, private car tours can still show you all the Loop’s highlights:

• Air-conditioned comfort for long distances.

• Space for luggage and up to four passengers.

• Flexibility in itinerary but at higher cost (3,000,000–5,000,000 VND per day).

All our tours include:

• Safety gear, briefing, and full route planning.

• All meals and dorm-style homestay accommodation.

• Local insights from an English-speaking guide.

• Epic stories from our friendly Easy Riders.

Riding the Ha Giang Loop: Bong Hostel’s 4-Day Itinerary 

The classic Ha Giang Loop itinerary spans three to four days, depending on how leisurely you ride and how many stops you make. The legendary route curated by Bong Hostel is as follows:

Day 1: Ha Giang → Yen Minh (90km)

Kick things off with breakfast and a briefing at Bong Ha Giang Hostel before hitting the road.

Highlights:

• Bac Sum Pass – Your first taste of the Loop’s winding roads.

• Quan Ba Heaven Gate & Fairy Bosom Hills – Stunning limestone formations and sweeping valley views.

• Lung Tam Village – A peaceful stop to learn about traditional Hmong textile weaving.

Evening:

• Check in at a local homestay in Yen Minh.

• Share a hearty family-style dinner with other riders.

• Wind down with karaoke, card games, and plenty of Happy Water (local corn wine).

Day 2: Yen Minh → Meo Vac (110km)

After breakfast, the loop heads deeper into the mountains.

Highlights:

• Tham Ma Pass – A dramatic snake-like road with hairpin turns.

• Dong Van Ancient Town – Wander through an old Hmong market town.

• Ma Pi Leng Pass – The crown jewel of the Loop, offering dizzying views over the Nho Que River.

• Sky Walk – For those who dare, this optional cliffside path isn’t for the faint of heart.

• Tu San Canyon Viewpoint – Snap a panoramic photo of the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia.

Evening:

• Stay overnight in Meo Vac.

• Family dinner, games, and more “cheers” with fellow travelers.

Discover more: Evenings on the Ha Giang Loop: How Bong Hostel Creates the Best Memories.

No license? No problem! Let Bong Hostel's Easy Riders look after you!

Day 3: Meo Vac → Du Gia (100km)

Today’s route takes you off the beaten track into one of the Loop’s most serene villages.

Highlights:

• Nho Que River Boat Tour – Drift between sheer limestone cliffs in an unforgettable boat ride.

• Mau Due – A remote town where you’ll stop for lunch.

• Du Gia – A peaceful village surrounded by rice fields and rolling hills.

Evening:

• Check into CN Homestay in Du Gia.

• Family dinner, local karaoke, and a relaxed rural vibe.

Day 4: Du Gia → Ha Giang (100km)

Wrap up your journey with a splash and a scenic return.

Highlights:

• Du Gia Waterfall – Go for a swim or cliff jump if you're feeling brave.

• Tam Son Town – Lunch with a view on your way back.

• Little Ma Pi Leng Canyon – One last chance to soak up the scenery.

Evening:

• Arrive back at Bong Ha Giang Hostel by 5:30 PM.

• Buses available straight from Bong Hostel to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Cat Ba, or Ha Long.

Each day is packed with jaw-dropping landscapes, friendly locals, and memories you’ll be swapping stories about for years. 

Final Thoughts on Riding the Ha Giang Loop in 2025

Riding the Ha Giang Loop remains one of Asia’s most unforgettable motorcycle journeys—but only if you ride responsibly. 

In 2025, Vietnamese authorities have made it clear: no valid motorcycle license plus International Driving Permit (1968 Vienna Convention, Category A) means no legal riding. 

Attempting the Loop without a license exposes you to steep fines, zero insurance coverage, and serious safety risks.

Fortunately, securing the right documents is straightforward if you plan ahead. Obtain your national motorcycle license, apply for the correct IDP, and arrive in Vietnam ready to tackle those switchbacks. 

And if paperwork proves impossible, Bong Hostel has got your back! 

Learn more and book: Ha Giang Loop Easy Rider Tour | Bong Hostel.