No, applying makeup while driving in Vietnam violates traffic safety laws, as it constitutes distracted driving under the 2008 Law on Road Traffic and Decree 100/2019/ND-CP. Police may issue fines up to VND 2–3 million (USD 85–130) and deduct 4–6 demerit points. Courts have upheld penalties for cosmetic-related accidents, citing failure to maintain control of the vehicle.
Key Regulations for Applying Makeup While Driving in Vietnam
- Distracted Driving Prohibition: Decree 100/2019 explicitly bans any activity diverting attention from driving, including grooming. Local traffic police (Cảnh sát giao thông) enforce this under Article 5.1, which defines “unsafe driving behaviors.”
- Fines and Demerit Points: Violators face fines of VND 2–3 million (USD 85–130) and 4–6 demerit points under Article 5.1 of Decree 100. Repeat offenses within a year may double penalties.
- Liability for Accidents: Courts treat makeup application as negligence under the 2008 Civil Code. Victims in accidents caused by distracted drivers can sue for damages, citing Article 584 on tort liability.
Local authorities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have intensified patrols near commercial areas where drivers are prone to multitasking. The 2026 draft amendments to traffic laws propose stricter penalties, including temporary license suspension for repeat offenders. Drivers should use rest stops or designated parking areas for cosmetic routines to avoid legal and safety risks.