When arriving in Ha Giang land, which has beautiful passes and majestic scenery of the northern mountains of Vietnam, preparing for a safe and legal driving journey is extremely important. Among them, the international driving permit (IDP) is an indispensable document for those who plan to explore the Ha Giang loop by motorbike. This article will help you understand the necessity of an IDP, the application process, and the things to note when renting a car and participating in tourism activities here. Let’s explore with ZingHome Ha Giang and be good for your trip!
1. Why You Need an International Driving Permit in Vietnam
Owning an International Driving Permit not only helps you comply with the law but also helps you feel more secure
When the journey to discover Ha Giang Loop, many tourists fall into an awkward situation when they do not know if there is need an international driving permit (IDP). The main reason is due to traffic regulations in Vietnam and various countries. Here are some reasons that you need to have an international driving permit for the Ha Giang Loop.
IDP shows that you are capable of controlling the vehicle. Many car rental companies, especially in Ha Giang, require an IDP to ensure the legality and benefits of both sides.
- Language translation of the driver’s license: IDP provides detailed information about your driver’s license in many languages, making it easy for local authorities to understand. This is extremely necessary if you face any situation related to traffic.
- Help you be more confident when driving: There is an international driving permit that will help you feel more secure when traveling, especially on the steep and narrow passes of Ha Giang. By careful preparation, you can enjoy the natural beauty without having to worry about being inspected by the police.
- Respect local regulations: Owning an international driving permit not only shows respect for local traffic regulations but also shows your responsibility to society. This is also highly appreciated by local authorities for visitors.
2. Is an IDP Required for the Ha Giang Loop?
There is an International Driving Permit that is required when you drive a motorbike on the Ha Giang Loop
The answer is yes. If you are a foreigner and want to drive a motorbike or a car in Vietnam, you need an international driving permit (IDP). If you do not have an international driver’s license, you may have difficulty if checked by traffic police.
Despite the fact that there are still some adventure tourists without an International Driving Permit, the risk is very large: If you have an accident or police check, you may be fined, the motorbike is impounded, and the insurance does not pay. So, don’t bet your dream journey – make sure you have a valid International Driving Permit before coming to Ha Giang.
3. How to apply for an international driving permit
If you already have a valid driving license in your country, the international driving permit (IDP) is quite simple. You can follow these steps:
Check your country’s requirements: Each country has different provisions on the issuance of IDP. Most countries require you to apply for an IDP at the traffic agencies or competent organizations.
Prepare documents: Usually, you need to prepare the following documents:
- The national driving license is still valid
- Passport photocopy
- Some fees for IDP
Applying and waiting for approval: After submitting the application, the approval process usually takes 15 to 20 days. So you should complete the process before your trip.
4. Validity and renewal of an IDP
Validity: A regular International Driving Permit takes effect for 1 year from the date of issue. Therefore, you should monitor the time of relevant papers to avoid difficulties in the movement process.
Renewal: If you still want to continue the journey, you must renew to continue driving legally. Make a plan to avoid the expiration of the trip.
5. Renting a motorbike in Ha Giang with an IDP
Honda XR150cc is chosen by many tourists when going to the Ha Giang Loop
Once an international driving permit (IDP) in hand, renting a motorbike in Ha Giang will be more convenient than ever. Owning an IDP helps you perform legal obligations and be more confident when exploring the spectacular roads here.
Do the stores require an IDP or not?
Many motorbike rental shops in Ha Giang require tourists to have an international driving permit (IDP) for motorbike rental. This is a popular and legitimate requirement to ensure that you have a legal license when participating in traffic in Vietnam. This not only helps them protect their property but also helps you to be safe and legal when driving.
Motorbikes suitable for the Ha Giang Loop
Choosing the right motorbike is the decisive factor for the success of the trip to Ha Giang Loop. With the mountainous terrain, high, steep, and dirt and gravel road sections, choosing the right type of motorbike not only helps you move easily but also ensures safety and a smooth experience. Here are the recommended motorbikes, accompanied by detailed reviews so you can easily choose according to your driving needs and skills:
Yamaha 110cc motorcycle
This is a popular, easy-to-control, very fuel-efficient, and gentle motorbike line for those who first conquer the Ha Giang Loop. Although the capacity is not as strong as large displacement vehicles, if you move at a moderate speed and do not overload luggage, this is still a safe and economical choice.
Advantage:
- Easy to use, suitable for new drivers,
- Low fuel consumption, easy to repair along the road.
- Low rental cost is about 180,000 VND/day.
Limit: Not suitable for high slope or muddy terrain.
Honda Winner motorcycle
Honda Winner is a model that many young people choose for the Ha Giang Loop journey thanks to its strong engine, smooth gearbox, and good processing ability in many road conditions. The motorbike has a sporty shape, suitable for those who are used to driving a clutch or a high-class vehicle. The rent for this vehicle is 350.000 VND/day.
Advantage:
- The machine is strong, running smoothly, and gripping well.
- Suitable for long journeys, many complex terrains.
- Create a strong driving feeling, conquer reality.
Limit:
- Not suitable for people who are not used to driving a taper.
- Easy to turn off the machine if the taper is not good.
Manual bike Honda XR150cc
Honda XR150cc is considered a “terrain king” in the Ha Giang Loop. This is a Dirt Bike with extremely good terrain, extremely suitable for those who love adventure, like to conquer difficult roads such as Ma Pi Leng, Sung is, or trek to deep villages in the mountains. The rental price is about 550.000 VND/day.
Advantage:
- Very suitable for those who want to explore deep villages.
- Large tires, good clinging, and increasing safety when falling down.
Limit:
- The rent is higher than for other vehicles.
- Only rent if you are used to driving a clutch.
- Bulky, inconvenient when walking in a crowded area.
Some notes when renting a motorbike
When renting a motorbike Ha Giang Loop, there are a few things that you should pay attention to ensure a safe and convenient trip. Here are a few main points needed:
- Choose a reputable motorbike rental company: Choosing reputable brands will help you feel more secure about the quality of service. You should refer to reviews from previous customers to make the best choice.
- Check the motorbike carefully before receiving: If possible, ask for a short test to ensure all parts, such as brakes, lights, tires, and electrical systems, operate stably.
- Essential papers: You need to bring IDP and personal papers to ensure legal and safe.
- Protection equipment: Always bring standard helmets and other protective devices such as armor, elbow, and knee protection pieces to protect yourself when traveling on the road.
6. Solutions if you don’t have an IDP
Joining with local drivers is the best choice for those who do not have an international driving permit
If you do not have an international driving permit (IDP) but still want to explore Ha Giang, don’t worry! There are some solutions so you can still enjoy the trip:
Join the tour with a local driver
When there is no international driving permit (IDP), participating in a tour with a local driver is the perfect solution for your discovery. Here is some important information about this form of tour:
- Benefits of tours with local drivers: Local drivers not only help you move but also provide a person who can share many interesting facts about local culture and customs. They will take you to places with little known and help you better understand the life of the population here.
- Tour itinerary: Typically, tours with drivers will have specific schedules including famous points such as Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Old Quarter, and Vuong’s mansion. You can also request to adjust the schedule according to your personal preferences.
- Reasonable cost: Prices for tours with local drivers are often quite reasonable and not too high compared to driving themselves. Besides, you will not have to worry about the cost of gasoline or car maintenance. With the Ha Giang Loop tour for 4 days 3 nights, about 4,950,000 VND/pax.
Join the private car tour
If you prioritize comfort and safety, choosing a private car tour is the perfect solution. Here are some highlights of this form of participation:
- The journey is more convenient: A Tour by private car helps you have a more private and comfortable space. You do not need to struggle to control the vehicle, but just enjoy the extremely diverse scenes that Ha Giang brings.
- Professional driver: Prestigious travel companies often provide experienced drivers, fluent in local roads. They will be the one who leads you to the most prominent tourist destinations without worrying about straying or problems that arise.
- Safe to move: In particular, in bad weather days or when you are not confident about your ability to drive, traveling by private car will make you feel safer. Along with that, you will not have to calculate or worry about motorbike maintenance during the movement.
7. ZingHome Ha Giang – A reputable tour company
ZingHome Ha Giang stands out as one of the prestigious travel companies in Ha Giang, providing a variety of services to make your trip easier. This is an ideal place for those who are looking for services such as tours, motorbike rental, and accommodation.
- Attractive tour: ZingHome offers many attractive tours, from 2 2-day 1-night tour to a 5-day 4-night tour. In the process of participating in the tour, you will discover famous places as well as hidden destinations not available on the map.
- Vehicle rental service: The company also provides motorbike and car rental services at competitive prices. All vehicles are new, operate well, and are maintained regularly.
- Comfortable accommodation: ZingHome offers many forms of accommodation, from a homestay to a hotel room. Each room is designed comfortably with a beautiful view facing nature, ensuring that you will have great relaxing moments.
The trip to Ha Giang will not only be an opportunity to experience majestic natural beauty, but also a lesson about careful preparation for each journey. An international driving permit (IDP) not only helps you to drive legally, but also brings confidence and peace of mind when exploring the rugged passes. Remember, choosing a reputable car rental store, a careful check-up, and protection equipment is essential. Hopefully, the information in this article will help you have a safe and interesting trip!
