Are you wondering if it is safe to ride a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh? This is a question that many international visitors ask when faced with the dense flow of motorbikes. But don’t worry! This article will provide you with all the necessary information to make your trip with a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh safe and enjoyable. Let’s find out with Rental Motorbike!
Is it safe for foreigners to ride motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City?

Riding a motorbike is one of the best ways to explore the vibrant beauty of Ho Chi Minh City. However, many visitors still ask the question: “Is it safe to ride a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh?” The answer depends on the level of preparation, knowledge of traffic and attitude when participating in the streets of Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its heavy traffic density, especially motorbikes. With millions of vehicles circulating every day, the bustling streets can be overwhelming for newcomers. However, this is also what creates the attractive characteristics of Saigon. In fact, if you drive carefully and have a basic understanding of local traffic, participating in traffic is not as dangerous as imagined.
“Unexpected” risks when riding a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City

Although the experience of motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City brings a sense of freedom, flexibility and adventure, it cannot be denied that riding a motorbike in a bustling city like Saigon also comes with many risks and challenges. Especially for foreigners who are not familiar with Vietnamese traffic, riding by themselves can become a real “culture shock”.
- Heavy honking: This is the way Vietnamese riders “ask for the right of way” or signal their presence, but it can overwhelm you if you are not used to it.
- Rush hour traffic jams: A “specialty” of Saigon. Narrow roads, crowded vehicles, moving very slowly in the early morning and late afternoon.
- Extremely close distance between vehicles: Heavy traffic makes vehicles only a few centimeters apart, requiring good balancing skills.
- Driving license and insurance: Many travelers do not have a valid driving license, which means travel insurance will not cover them if they have an accident.
- Imperfect infrastructure: Potholes, manhole covers and flooded roads are common, especially after heavy rain.
A guide to safe motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City
Riding a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City is a popular choice, offering flexibility and freedom to explore the city. However, to ensure safety and legality, you need to prepare carefully before riding. Here are 3 important steps that any traveler should know.

Step 1: Ensure Legality
Before renting a motorbike, make sure you have a valid driving license in Vietnam. This is the foundation to help you avoid legal and financial troubles when choosing a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Vietnam only recognizes IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Many countries such as the US, Australia, UK, etc. can apply for a suitable IDP, but you need to check carefully before using it.
- Converting a rider’s license: If you have a long-term temporary residence card, you can convert your foreign rider’s license to a Vietnamese one through a simple procedure with a few basic documents.
- Risks of not having a rider’s license: In addition to the risk of being fined or having your vehicle impounded, you will not be covered by travel insurance if an accident occurs.
>> SEE MORE: Is Vietnam traffic dangerous for tourists? Locals’ insights
Step 2: Rent a motorbike properly
After ensuring legality, the next step is to choose a suitable and safe vehicle:
- Where to rent: Prioritize reputable stores with clear rental contracts and basic insurance. Avoid renting from individuals or without a clear address.
- Which vehicle to choose: Scooters like Honda Vision or Air Blade are popular choices for foreigners because they are easy to control and suitable for the streets of Saigon.
- Check carefully before receiving the vehicle: Don’t forget to check the brakes, lights, horn, turn signals, mirrors, tires and take pictures of any scratches to avoid future disputes.
Step 3: Fully equipped
Personal safety is a factor that cannot be overlooked, especially when you ride in the crowded traffic of Ho Chi Minh City:
- Helmets: Standard helmets are required. You should choose the type with a windshield or a 3/4 helmet to better protect your head and face.
- Necessary equipment: Long-sleeved jackets, sunglasses, masks and raincoats should always be ready. They not only help you feel more comfortable but also avoid risks when it’s sunny, dusty or raining suddenly.
Rental Motorbike – A reliable motorbike rental address for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City

When looking for motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh, Rental Motorbike is always on the top list of suggestions for international tourists. We are sure to provide not only professional service but also friendly and dedicated support.
Why choose Rental Motorbike Vietnam:
- All vehicles at Rental Motorbike are thoroughly checked before delivery. The vehicles run smoothly, are new in form and have a full range of models from scooters to manual transmissions, suitable for all travel needs in Saigon.
- Just book in advance and the vehicle will be delivered to your hotel or airport. Customers will be carefully advised about their rider’s license, valid documents as well as important notes when riding a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh.
- For first-time renters, the team at Rental Motorbike Vietnam will support instructions on how to use the vehicle and point out the roads that are prone to accidents to help you travel more safely.
- Friendly staff, good English communication, ready to support customers anytime, anywhere.
- Rental Motorbike received hundreds of positive reviews on Google Maps and Tripadvisor from the international customer community who have experienced the service.

In short, riding a motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh is not as scary as many people think. Your adventure will not be complete without a reliable companion. Therefore, Rental Motorbike is always ready to provide the best vehicles and thoughtful support services. If you have any questions about motorbike for foreigners in Ho Chi Minh, do not hesitate to contact us immediately for advice and book a motorbike as soon as possible!
Contact Info
Address:
Location 1: 263/1/42, Le Duc Tho Street, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City
Location 2: 57, Bat Su Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
Hotline/Whats app: 0911228968
Website: https://rentalmotorbikevn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rentalmotorbikeviet
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rentalmotorbikeviet/
Email: dzungmotorbike@gmail.com