Learn how Vietnam’s new Decree 168 replaces Decree 100, raising fines for traffic violations up to tens of millions VND. Stay compliant and avoid heavy penalties.
The Vietnamese government has just issued Decree 81/2026, which takes effect on May 15, 2026. Among its many provisions, Article 48 officially repeals Decree 100/2019 – the former rulebook for road‑traffic administrative violations. While Decree 100 is now void, drivers are still subject to strict sanctions under the newer Decree 168/2024, which came into force at the start of 2025.
Heavy Fines for Drink‑Driving Remain Unchanged
Both Decree 100 and Decree 168 impose the same severe penalties for operating a vehicle with a blood‑alcohol concentration (BAC) above 80 mg per 100 ml of blood (or 0.4 mg per litre of breath). Offenders face a fine ranging from 30 million to 40 million VND and a license suspension of 22–24 months. The continuity of these harsh measures underscores the government’s zero‑tolerance policy toward drunken driving.
Red‑Light Violations Jump to 20 Million VND
Under Decree 100, running a red light attracted a fine of 4–6 million VND. With the new decree, the penalty escalates dramatically to 18–20 million VND plus a deduction of 4 points from the driver’s licence. Accumulate 12 points and you lose the right to drive vehicles in that licence category.
Widespread installation of AI‑enabled traffic cameras means red‑light violations are now easily detected, increasing the likelihood of hefty fines.
Vehicle Door Safety: Fines Ten‑Fold Higher
Opening a vehicle door unsafely used to cost 400,000–600,000 VND under Decree 100. Decree 168 raises the base fine to 4–6 million VND** per incident**. If the unsafe opening causes an accident, the fine jumps to **20–22 million VND**. Drivers are urged to keep doors closed while the vehicle is in motion and to open doors only on the passenger side when rear‑seat passengers need to exit.
Speeding Over 35 km/h: Steeper Penalties
Speeding more than 35 km/h above the posted limit was previously fined 10–12 million VND. The updated decree now sets the range at 12–14 million VND** plus a 2‑point licence deduction**. If the excessive speed results in an accident, the fine rises to **20–22 million VND**.
Drivers, especially those operating pickup trucks, should obey speed‑limit signs specific to heavy‑vehicle lanes, which often cap speeds at 60 km/h regardless of vehicle load.
License‑Plate Infractions: Up to 26 Million VND
Improperly affixed or obscured licence plates now attract a fine of 20–26 million VND and a 6‑point licence deduction. The police recognize that temporary obstructions—mud, rain, dust—are excusable if promptly cleaned when the vehicle is safely stopped. Deliberate tampering, such as covering plates with tape or paint, will be penalised at the maximum rate.
Key Takeaways for Drivers
- Do not drink and drive – penalties remain among the highest in the region.
- Obey traffic signals; AI cameras make detection almost inevitable.
- Keep doors closed while moving; unsafe opening can now cost over 20 million VND.
- Respect speed limits, especially on roads designated for trucks and pickups.
- Maintain a clean, correctly positioned licence plate at all times.
By adhering to these rules, motorists can protect their wallets, their licences, and – most importantly – the safety of all road users.