As vehicle automation technology continues to advance, regulatory authorities in Vietnam are assessing the legal and operational framework required for the integration of smart and fully autonomous vehicles into the national traffic system.

At present, numerous mid- to high-end passenger vehicles imported, manufactured, or assembled in Vietnam are equipped with driver-assistance systems classified as Level 1 and approaching Level 2 automation.

The Ministry of Public Security (MoPS) has proposed that fully autonomous motor vehicles should be subject to operational restrictions and require specific permits for use.

This proposal follows discussions concerning amendments to the Law on Road Traffic Safety and Order, which came into effect on 1st January 2025.

The MoPS has recommended revisions to existing regulations relating to motor vehicles capable of fully automating the driving process, determining routes, and managing traffic situations.

Under current legislation, smart vehicles are defined as motor vehicles capable of partial or full automation in vehicle control, route determination, and handling of traffic scenarios.

According to established classification, smart vehicles are categorised into five levels.

Levels 1 to 3 refer to vehicles with partial automation in control, route selection, and situational response.

Levels 4 and 5 refer to vehicles with full automation in these functions.

Many passenger cars in the mid- to high-end segment in Vietnam are equipped with Level 1 driver-assistance features and are approaching Level 2 capabilities.

Under existing regulations, these vehicles are classified as smart vehicles and are required to obtain operational licences, unlike conventional motor vehicles.

According to the Ministry, vehicles within Levels 1 to 3 are regarded as compatible with existing road and traffic conditions in Vietnam and do not require additional restrictions or special permits.

Functions such as lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane-change warnings, and automatic parking are intended to support vehicle operation and hazard response.

These functions are activated at the discretion of the driver.

Vehicles classified as Levels 4 and 5, which involve full automation, remain limited to trial use internationally.

In China, pilot programmes for driverless taxis are being conducted in cities including Wuhan, Chongqing, Beijing, and Shanghai. These trials are undergoing safety and reliability assessments and have not yet been authorised for widespread use.

In other regions such as the United States and the European Union, fully autonomous vehicles remain in the testing phase and typically require the presence of a driver or supervisor inside the vehicle.