Learn the new Vietnamese vehicle inspection fees: 50% surcharge for same‑day retests and 100% for next‑day or different stations. Keep your car compliant—read more now!
The Ministry of Construction in Vietnam issued Circular 40/2025, effective 20 January 2025, to fine‑tune the fee structure for vehicle registration inspections. The changes affect both first‑time checks and any follow‑up inspections after a failed test.
New Inspection Fee Rules Effective 20 Jan 2025
Under the new circular, every inspection centre must adhere to a set price ceiling for the basic inspection service. The quoted price cannot exceed the maximum level defined by the Ministry, although the ceiling does **not** cover value‑added tax (VAT), certification fees, travel costs, equipment handling, overtime labour, or other ancillary charges.
Surcharge for Failed Inspections
If a motor vehicle or a specialised motorcycle does not meet the required standards during its mandatory registration inspection (commonly referred to as “dropping” the test), the owner must first have the vehicle repaired at a maintenance workshop before attempting a re‑inspection.
- Same‑day re‑inspection at the same centre: a surcharge equal to 50 % of the original inspection fee is applied.
- Re‑inspection the next day or at a different centre: the surcharge rises to 100 % of the original inspection fee.
These surcharges are calculated on the base inspection cost, not on the additional ancillary fees mentioned above.
Price Caps and What’s Not Included
The circular also clarifies the components that are **excluded** from the advertised maximum price:
- VAT and other statutory taxes;
- Fees for issuing the official inspection certificate;
- Costs related to vehicle transport, parking, or equipment set‑up;
- Overtime labour or work performed on official holidays;
- Any third‑party service charges requested by the vehicle owner.
Why It Matters for Vehicle Owners
By setting clear surcharge levels and a transparent price ceiling, the government aims to make the inspection system more predictable and to encourage owners to keep their vehicles in good condition. Failing an inspection now carries a tangible financial penalty, which can be avoided with regular maintenance and timely repairs.
Tips to Avoid Extra Costs
- Schedule routine servicing and address minor issues before the annual inspection.
- Check the expiration date of your current registration and plan the inspection early to avoid last‑minute rescheduling.
- Keep all maintenance receipts – some centres may offer discounts for documented upkeep.
- When possible, arrange for the re‑inspection at the same centre on the same day to benefit from the lower 50 % surcharge.
Staying on top of vehicle health not only saves money but also ensures safer roads for everyone.