“Hanoi Police Urge Citizens to Act Fast on Driver’s Licenses to Avoid Losing Benefits”

According to the Traffic Police Department, many citizens still hold old paper-based driver’s licenses issued years ago. These licenses are prone to wear and tear, fading, and even counterfeiting, posing significant challenges for management.

Since July 1, 2012, the Ministry of Transport has introduced new driver’s licenses made from PET plastic. These licenses are durable, tamper-resistant, and feature a QR code for quick verification by authorities.

Switching to PET plastic driver’s licenses offers numerous benefits for citizens.

First, PET cards are highly durable, waterproof, and resistant to moisture and fading, unlike the old paper versions. Their compact size makes them easy to carry in a wallet, ensuring daily convenience.

Additionally, all information on PET licenses is digitized and synchronized with the national database, enabling authorities to verify details swiftly and accurately.

Notably, citizens can integrate their PET licenses into the VNeID app for digital presentation to authorities, eliminating the need to carry multiple documents. License renewal or replacement is also more flexible, as it can be done at any local office nationwide, saving time and costs.

Importantly, PET driver’s licenses are a prerequisite for obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP), allowing Vietnamese citizens to drive legally in countries party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, enhancing international mobility and work opportunities.

The Hanoi Traffic Police urge residents to collaborate with local authorities in updating license information and promptly switch from paper to PET licenses. This contributes to a modern, transparent, and synchronized transportation data system.

To replace old paper licenses with PET cards, citizens can visit their local police office or apply online via the National Public Service Portal.

Below are the steps to renew your license on the National Public Service Portal:

Step 1: Access the National Public Service Portal;

Step 2: On the homepage, select “Vehicles and Drivers”;

Step 3: Enter “Driver’s License” in the search bar, then select “Renew Driver’s License” from the results;

Step 4: Choose “Submit Online”;

Fill in the required details, including receiving agency, location, reason for renewal, driver information, and health status.

Step 5: Once all details are submitted, the system will confirm eligibility. Follow the prompts to pay fees and note the address for document collection.