What happens if you don’t carry your vehicle documents in 2026? This article provides a complete update on fines under Decree 168/2024/NĐ-CP and key notes every driver should know.
Failing to carry vehicle documents refers to a situation where a driver cannot present all mandatory documents as required by law when participating in traffic.
To ensure legal and safe operation, drivers must carry the following:
1. Driver’s License
A valid driver’s license proves that you are qualified to operate the vehicle. It must match the vehicle category you are driving.
2. Vehicle Registration Certificate
This document proves legal ownership of the vehicle. Drivers must carry the original or a notarized copy. If the vehicle is under financing, additional confirmation from the credit institution is required.
3. Certificate of Technical Safety & Environmental Inspection (for cars)
Applicable mainly to automobiles, this certificate confirms that the vehicle meets safety and environmental standards.
4. Mandatory Civil Liability Insurance
All motor vehicles must have valid civil liability insurance to cover damages to third parties in case of accidents.
Penalties vary depending on the type of violation and vehicle. The latest fines under Decree 168/2024/NĐ-CP (effective from January 1, 2025) are as follows:
| Violation | Penalties | |
| Motorcycles | Motors | |
| Not carrying a driver’s license | 200,000 – 300,000 VND | 300,000 – 400,000 VND |
| No valid driver’s license / invalid / inappropriate license | – 2,000,000 – 4,000,000 VND (≤125cc or ≤11kW) – 6,000,000 – 8,000,000 VND (>125cc or >11kW)
| 18,000,000 – 20,000,000 VND |
| Not carrying vehicle registration | 200,000 – 300,000 VND | 300,000 – 400,000 VND |
| No vehicle registration | 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND (vehicle confiscation + 2 license points deducted) | 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND (vehicle confiscation + 2 license points deducted) |
| No mandatory insurance | 200,000 – 300,000 VND | 400,000 – 600,000 VND |
| Not carrying inspection certificate | – | 300,000 – 400,000 VND |
| No inspection certificate | – | 4,000,000 – 6,000,000 VND (2 license points deducted) |
Therefore, in conclusion, the maximum penalties for not bringing vehicle document are:
Traffic violations can be processed within 1 year from the date of occurrence, including cases recorded by surveillance systems..
To avoid penalties for missing documents:
Depending on the violation, fines range:
Yes.
Yes, authorities may temporarily detain the vehicle as an administrative measure. This does not mean permanent confiscation.
Not carrying vehicle documents is a common but easily avoidable violation. Preparing all required documents, checking validity, and understanding legal requirements will help you drive confidently and safely.
Don’t let a simple oversight lead to unnecessary fines—stay compliant and protect yourself on every journey.
