Vietnam Tightens Traffic Violation Fines Starting 2025
With road safety taking center stage, Vietnam has announced significant increases to traffic violation fines starting January 1, 2025, under the new Decree 168/2024/ND-CP. This overhaul follows the previous regulations under Decree 100/2019/ND-CP and aims to combat reckless driving and improve adherence to traffic laws.
According to the new decree, many traffic violations will carry hefty fines, some exceeding three times the previous amounts. For example, failing to comply with traffic signal instructions will face penalties ranging from 18 to 20 million VND, compared to the previous range of just 4 to 6 million VND. Similarly, instances such as driving the wrong way on one-way streets will now incur fines equivalent to 18 to 20 million VND, up from just 4 to 6 million VND.
Among the notable changes is the increase for not yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks, which will result in fines of 4 to 6 million VND compared to the former 300,000 to 400,000 VND. Even infractions like carrying unfastened cargo will incur fines between 18 and 22 million VND, whereas they were previously set at only 600,000 to 800,000 VND.
The government has stated the primary motivation for these increases is to significantly improve road safety and reduce the number of traffic accidents, prompting citizens to adhere more strictly to driving regulations. Official sources have reported statistics indicating high rates of traffic violations and accidents as major concerns to be addressed by the new decree.
The penalty structure extends to those operating motorcycles and scooters as well. For example, riding without the proper safety measures or contravening designated vehicle rules will now lead to fines reaching up to 10 million VND, whereas earlier fines did not exceed 4 to 5 million VND.
A significant aspect of the reform is the introduction of the point deduction system for driving licenses. According to the regulations, each driver will begin with 12 points. Points will be deducted for offenses, and drivers who lose all points will not be allowed to drive until they undergo re-evaluation, aiming for heightened accountability on the roads.
"With these regulations, we envision safer roads where drivers comply with traffic laws, learning from past mistakes to cultivate responsible driving habits," commented a representative from the Traffic Police Department.
Among the high-priority violations being targeted are those involving alcohol and drug use. The fine for operating under the influence can now reach up to 40 million VND. For serious offenses, involving fatal accidents where the driver fails to assist victims, fines can range from 16 to 40 million VND.
Traffic authorities believe the increased penalties will deter future violations. “Our goal is not only to punish but to educate drivers about the importance of road safety and the consequences of their actions,” shared another official.
Road safety advocates have largely welcomed these changes, emphasizing the need for stricter measures to combat Vietnam’s rising traffic fatalities. The country has seen alarming rates of accidents and fatalities over the years, with the World Health Organization listing traffic accidents as one of the leading causes of death among young people, which complicates the public health scenario.
Experts have pointed out the importance of not just enforcing these fines, but also ensuring proper public awareness campaigns accompany the regulation changes. "Educative initiatives alongside punitive measures will help instill respect for traffic laws among drivers across Vietnam," stated Nguyen Quang Hai, a road safety expert.
On the ground, reactions from drivers have varied. Some have expressed concern about the dramatic increase in fines, stating it may lead to resentment among law-abiding citizens. "While I agree we need discipline on the roads, these fines seem excessive and may be difficult for many people to manage," said Tran Thi Cam, a frequent motorist.
Conversely, others welcome the new measures. “I believe it’s time we take our traffic rules seriously. After all, the road is a shared space,” said Phuc Nguyen, another motorist. “If it takes financially painful fines to change behaviors, then so be it.”
Looking forward, Vietnam seems set on transforming its road safety narrative, really putting the pedal to the metal with these new regulations. Whether these drastically increased fines will generate the desired change remains to be seen; nonetheless, it marks a significant shift toward safer streets.
For those with questions about the new fines and regulations, authorities encourage contacting the traffic police's hotline for assistance. To facilitate this, the Ministry of Transport is also enhancing the clarity and accessibility of its communication channels, ensuring citizens can stay informed.