Discover Vietnam’s 2026 changes to vehicle registration stickers and license plates, road fees for electric cars, and QR‑enabled ETC. Read now!
Key Changes to Road‑Tax Stickers
Starting January 2026, the paper sticker that used to sit on the driver’s side window will disappear. The decree (No. 364/2025) removes the road‑tax sticker from the windshield and adjusts the monthly fees for different vehicle types.
- Passenger cars with up to 8 seats (excluding the driver) – VND 130,000 per month.
- Commercial passenger‑vehicle services – VND 180,000 per month.
- All other vehicle categories keep the previous rates.
From now on, only a single sticker is needed on the windshield, simplifying the visual clutter.
New License‑Plate Colours for Green Vehicles
Since early 2025, registration plates have been colour‑coded based on the powertrain:
- Green background – Pure‑electric cars and other low‑emission, environmentally‑friendly models.
- Orange background – Conventional internal‑combustion‑engine vehicles.
- Pink background – Specific to motorcycles.
Failing to display the correct colour plate can result in a fine of VND 4‑6 million and a possible suspension of the driver’s licence for 1‑3 months.
QR‑Enabled ETC and the Road to Low‑Emission Zones (LEZ)
Hanoi’s city plan proposes a digital‑first approach: green vehicles will carry QR codes that link to an electronic toll‑collection (ETC) account. This system will allow authorities to:
- Identify clean‑energy cars instantly on camera.
- Adjust toll rates, bridge fees, or parking allocations based on vehicle emissions.
- Prepare for future low‑emission zones where only green‑coloured plates and QR‑linked ETC accounts can enter.
In the coming years, plug‑in hybrids (PHEV), hybrids (HEV) and even hydrogen‑fuel cars may receive their own distinctive plate backgrounds, further separating them from gasoline models.
What Happens If You Miss the Sticker?
Driving without the required registration sticker is considered a violation. Apart from the hefty fine, the vehicle will be barred from operating in restricted areas such as LEZs until the correct documentation is displayed.
Understanding these colour codes and QR‑based systems will not only keep you compliant but also unlock benefits like reduced fees, priority parking, and smoother travel through Vietnam’s emerging smart‑city corridors.
Quick Checklist for New Car Owners
- Verify that your vehicle has the single windshield sticker (if applicable).
- Check the licence‑plate colour matches your powertrain.
- Register your QR‑linked ETC account as soon as possible.
- Keep the registration documents handy to avoid fines.
Staying ahead of these changes ensures you enjoy a hassle‑free driving experience and take full advantage of Vietnam’s push toward greener, smarter mobility.