Yes, driving barefoot is not explicitly prohibited under Vietnam’s 2008 Road Traffic Law or its 2026 amendments, but it violates traffic safety regulations enforced by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and local traffic police.
Key Regulations for Driving Barefoot in Vietnam
- Traffic Safety Decree 100/2019/ND-CP mandates drivers to maintain full control of vehicles; barefoot operation may be deemed a violation if it impairs vehicle handling.
- MPS Circular 35/2021/TT-BCA allows traffic police to penalize drivers for “unsafe driving practices,” which may include barefoot driving if deemed hazardous.
- Local enforcement discretion varies; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City traffic units have issued warnings for barefoot driving under “distracting or improper driving” clauses.
While no statute explicitly bans barefoot driving, its classification as an unsafe practice under broader traffic safety laws exposes drivers to fines (typically 100,000–200,000 VND) or warnings. The 2026 compliance shift emphasizes stricter adherence to “proper driving conditions,” increasing scrutiny of footwear-related infractions. Motorcyclists face higher risk due to balance dependency, while car drivers may avoid penalties unless involved in accidents. Always prioritize footwear that ensures pedal control to mitigate legal exposure.