Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP: New Regulations on Road Traffic Safety Violations in Vietnam

On December 26, 2024, the Government of Vietnam officially issued Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP, a significant legal document that outlines penalties for administrative violations related to road traffic order and safety. This decree, effective from January 1, 2025, also introduces regulations on the deduction and restoration of points on driving licenses, marking a pivotal step in enhancing road safety and compliance across the country.

What is Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP?

Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP replaces previous regulations, including Decree No. 100/2020/ND-CP (as amended by Decree No. 123/ND-CP), and aligns with the Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety enacted on June 27, 2024. The decree specifies sanctions for administrative violations in the field of road transportation, detailing acts of violation, penalty forms and levels, remedial measures, and the authority responsible for enforcement. Additionally, it establishes a point-based system for driving licenses to monitor and manage driver compliance more effectively.

Key Provisions of the Decree

1. Administrative Penalties:
2. The decree outlines a wide range of violations, from minor infractions like failing to wear helmets properly to severe offenses such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties include fines, temporary revocation of licenses, and additional remedial actions like reinstalling safety equipment or restoring vehicles to their original technical standards.
3. Point Deduction and Restoration System:
4. A notable feature of this decree is the introduction of a point-based system for driving licenses. Drivers start with a set number of points, which are deducted based on the severity of violations. Points can be restored after a certain period of compliance, encouraging responsible driving behavior. This system aims to deter repeat offenders and promote long-term adherence to traffic laws.
5. Scope and Applicability:
6. The decree applies to both Vietnamese and foreign individuals and organizations committing violations within Vietnam’s territory. It ensures that all road users are accountable under a unified legal framework.

Why This Decree Matters

Road traffic safety remains a critical issue in Vietnam, with thousands of accidents occurring annually due to reckless driving, lack of compliance, and insufficient enforcement. Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP addresses these challenges by:

1. Strengthening Enforcement: Higher fines and stricter penalties signal a zero-tolerance approach to serious violations.
2. Promoting Accountability: The point system ties driving privileges directly to behavior, making drivers more conscious of their actions.
3. Aligning with Global Standards: The decree reflects international practices in traffic management, such as point-based licensing, to improve road safety.

Notable Changes and Public Response

Compared to its predecessors, Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP significantly increases fines for certain violations, such as drunk driving or refusing sobriety tests, which has sparked widespread discussion. While many support the tougher measures as a necessary deterrent, others express concerns about the affordability of fines and the need for better public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance.

Where to Learn More

For a detailed breakdown of the decree, including specific violations, penalty levels, and procedures for point deduction and restoration, you can refer to the full text at:

Decree No. 168/2024/ND-CP on penalties for administrative violations against regulations on road traffic order and safety; deduction and restoration of points of driving licenses.