Whether joining cycling tours or exploring the ancient beauty of Hue on your own, understanding local traffic laws is essential for a safe, hassle-free journey. Starting from January 1, 2025, Vietnam applies the new Road Traffic Order and Safety Act, alongside Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP for stricter penalties. As a leading cycling tour operator in Hue, Hue Smile Travel provides this comprehensive guide to ensure you stay informed and compliant while enjoying your ride.
New Regulations Effective from January 1, 2025
(According to Articles 31 & 33 of the Road Traffic Order and Safety Act 2024)
1. Right-Hand Traffic & Overtaking
- Keep to the Right: In Vietnam, cyclists must always ride on the right-hand side of the road in the direction of travel.
- Overtaking: Overtaking must be performed on the left side. Overtaking on the right is strictly prohibited except in specifically permitted cases.
2. Passenger & Helmet Rules
- Passenger Limits: Operators are permitted to carry only one passenger. An exception is made for carrying one additional child under the age of 07 (maximum of two passengers).
- Helmet Regulations: Both operators and passengers of electric bicycles must wear certified safety helmets with properly fastened chin straps.
3. Lane Discipline & Night Riding
- Single File: Cyclists must ride in a single file and stay within designated non-motorized lanes where available.
- Night Lighting: Between 18:00 (6:00 PM) and 06:00 (6:00 AM), bicycles must be equipped with functional front and rear lights or signaling devices.
4. Prohibited Acts for Operators
- Riding abreast in a horizontal line.
- Using umbrellas, mobile phones, or audio devices (excluding hearing aids).
- Using the vehicle to tow/push other vehicles or objects; carrying bulky items.
- Riding hands-free or operating on a single wheel.
Penalty Framework
Legal Provisions (Article 9, Decree 168/2024/ND-CP)
Article 9. Penalties for operators of bicycles, electric bicycles, and other non-motorized vehicles violating road traffic rules
- A fine ranging from VND 100,000 to VND 200,000 shall be imposed for:
- a) Failing to keep to the right or the prescribed lane;
- b) Stopping abruptly; changing direction without signaling;
- c) Failing to comply with traffic signs or road markings;
- d) Overtaking on the right in prohibited cases;
- e) Riding in tunnels without lights; unauthorized stopping/parking in tunnels;
- g) Riding abreast in groups of 3 or more (bicycles) or 2 or more (other non-motorized vehicles);
- h) Using umbrellas, mobile phones, or electronic devices while riding;
- i) Operating between 18:00 and 06:00 without front and rear lights/signals;
- k) Illegal parking on roadways or sidewalks; obstructing traffic;
- l) Violating regulations at level crossings;
- m) Using handcarts as mobile stalls causing obstruction;
- n) Failing to yield when entering a priority road;
- o) Carrying more than the permitted number of passengers;
- p) Operating with a blood/breath alcohol concentration not exceeding 50mg/100ml or 0.25mg/1L.
- A fine ranging from VND 150,000 to VND 250,000 shall be imposed for:
- a) Riding without both hands; using feet to operate the vehicle;
- b) Failing to comply with the instructions of traffic controllers;
- c) Holding onto or towing other vehicles/objects; carrying bulky items;
- d) Failing to yield to overtaking or priority vehicles;
- e) Failing to comply with traffic light signals.
- A fine ranging from VND 300,000 to VND 400,000 shall be imposed for:
- a) Weaving, swerving, or chasing each other on the road;
- b) Riding on one wheel (bicycles) or two wheels (cycle rickshaws);
- c) Entering prohibited areas or riding against the flow of traffic;
- d) Alcohol concentration between 50mg-80mg/100ml or 0.25mg-0.4mg/1L.
- A fine ranging from VND 400,000 to VND 600,000 shall be imposed for:
- a) Leaving the scene of a traffic accident;
- b) Alcohol concentration exceeding 80mg/100ml or 0.4mg/1L;
- c) Refusing alcohol concentration testing;
- d) Failing to wear or properly fasten a certified helmet (for electric bicycles).
- A fine ranging from VND 800,000 to VND 1,200,000 shall be imposed for entering expressways.
Conclusion
Adhering to traffic laws is not only a legal obligation but also a way to protect yourself and respect the local culture of Hue. We hope this summary of Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP serves as a helpful guide for your journey. Let’s join Hue Smile Travel in building a civilized, safe, and inspiring cycling community!
FAQ
Can cyclists be tested for alcohol in Vietnam?
Yes. Under Decree 168/2024, cyclists can be fined up to VND 600,000 for alcohol violations depending on the concentration level.
Is it mandatory to wear a helmet on an electric bike?
Yes, it is mandatory. Fines for not wearing or improperly fastening a certified helmet range from VND 400,000 to VND 600,000.
What is the highest fine for a bicycle violation?
The highest penalty (up to VND 1,200,000) is applied to cyclists who illegally enter expressways.
Ready to Explore Hue on Two Wheels?
Don’t let the regulations overwhelm you – cycling is still the most authentic way to experience the hidden gems of Hue! At Hue Smile Travel, we provide high-quality Hue bicycles hire and electric bikes that meet all safety standards, ensuring a worry-free, law-abiding journey through the ancient capital.
Whether you’re looking for a professional cycling tour or just a daily rental to cruise the Perfume River, our team is ready to gear you up!
Visit us or get in touch today:
- Address: 1/6 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hue City
- Phone/WhatsApp: +84 93 548 44 15
- Email: info@huesmiletravel.com
- Website: Huesmiletravel.com
