vietnam-toll
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Vietnam Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide
System: Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) - RFID
Operators: VETC & Vietnam Digital Traffic (VDTC)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Coverage: 2,021 km operational, 3,000 km by 2025
Technology: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Do I Need Electronic Tags for Vietnam? 2025 Update
Yes, since August 1, 2022, fully automatic electronic toll collection (ETC) is mandatory on all Vietnamese expressways. All vehicles must use e-tags or face significant delays at toll stations.
ETC Required For:
- All vehicles using expressways and toll roads
- Both private and commercial vehicles
- Motorcycles and cars (different tag types available)
Two Official Providers:
- VETC - Vietnam Electronic Toll Collection (since 2015)
- ePass (VDTC) - Vietnam Digital Traffic Company (Viettel subsidiary)
Important: You can only use ONE provider's tag. Using both providers simultaneously causes system errors.
Vietnam Toll System: Current Status
Vietnam's expressway network is rapidly expanding with aggressive infrastructure development.
Current Network Status (2025)
| Metric | 2024 Status | 2025 Target | 2030 Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operational Length | 2,021 km | 3,000 km | 5,000 km |
| Under Construction | 1,542 km | TBD | TBD |
| Total Planned Routes | 41 expressways | 43 expressways | 43+ expressways |
| ETC Coverage | 100% mandatory | 100% mandatory | 100% mandatory |
Major Expressway Routes
- North-South Expressway East - Main spine route
- Hanoi-Haiphong Expressway - Capital to major port
- Hanoi-Lao Cai Expressway - Connection to China border
- Ho Chi Minh City-Long Thanh-Dau Giay - Southern commercial corridor
- Phap Van-Cau Gie Expressway - Hanoi bypass (opened 1998)
How to Get Vietnam E-Tags
VETC Electronic Tags
Registration Process:
- Available since 2015, established provider
- Registration at VETC service centers
- Over 2 million vehicles equipped with free e-tags
- Attached to windscreen or vehicle lights
Coverage: All toll roads nationwide with RFID technology
ePass (VDTC) Electronic Tags
Registration Options:
- Online: ePass app or website with home installation service
- Service centers: Direct application at VDTC offices
- Installation: Staff visit your location within 2-4 days
Fees:
- First-time registration: Free tag issuance
- Replacement tags: 120,000 VND per replacement
- Attachment: Car windscreen or vehicle lights
Required Documents
- Vehicle registration certificate (original or notarized copy)
- ID card/passport (original or notarized copy)
- Representative authorization (if applicable)
Important Note: Expired ID cards (over 15 years old) cannot be used for ePass registration.
Recent Changes (2025)
- Mandatory ETC: Full automation implemented since August 2022
- Network expansion: Two new routes added - Quang Ngai-Kon Tum and Ca Mau-Dat Mui expressways
- Technology updates: Enhanced RFID systems for better vehicle recognition
- Fraud prevention: Improved monitoring systems following revenue falsification investigations
- Government oversight: Stricter supervision of toll collection and revenue reporting
Toll Collection & Pricing
Pricing Structure
- Distance-based tolling: Rates vary by route length and vehicle type
- Vehicle classification: Different rates for motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses
- Operator reporting: All toll revenue reported to Ministry of Transport
- BOT contracts: 25 BOT toll stations nationwide with ETC systems
Payment Process
- Automatic deduction: RFID tags automatically charged when passing toll gantries
- High-speed transit: No stopping required, maintain highway speeds
- Account management: Top-up accounts through apps or service centers
- Real-time processing: Instant vehicle identification and charging
Planning Your Vietnam Journey
Travel Considerations
- Mandatory preparation: Obtain e-tag before using any expressway
- Provider selection: Choose between VETC or ePass (cannot use both)
- Route planning: Use expressways for faster inter-city travel
- Alternative routes: National highways available as toll-free alternatives
Network Benefits
- Time savings: Significant reduction in travel time vs. national highways
- Traffic relief: Reduced congestion on overloaded National Route 1
- Economic corridors: Enhanced connectivity for trade and tourism
- Regional integration: Better links to neighboring countries
Vietnam vs. Neighboring Countries
| Country | System Type | Technology | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | Electronic tags (ETC) | RFID mandatory | 2,021 km (expanding rapidly) | 100% electronic since 2022 |
| China | ETC + manual lanes | RFID/transponders | 170,000+ km | Massive network, holiday toll freezes |
| Laos | Limited toll roads | Manual collection | Minimal network | Developing infrastructure |
| Cambodia | Limited toll roads | Manual collection | Minimal network | Basic toll infrastructure |
| Thailand | Electronic + manual | RFID tags available | Selected highways | Mixed payment methods |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use both VETC and ePass tags on the same vehicle?
No, using tags from both providers simultaneously causes system errors. Choose one provider and use only their tag.
What happens if I don't have an e-tag on expressways?
Since August 2022, all expressways require ETC. Without an e-tag, you may face significant delays or be unable to use the expressway.
How do I top up my e-tag account?
Use the respective provider's mobile app, visit service centers, or use online banking options available through both VETC and ePass platforms.
Are tolls charged on all Vietnamese highways?
No, only expressways and designated toll roads charge fees. National highways (like Route 1) remain free but are often congested.
Can foreign visitors get e-tags?
Yes, foreign visitors can register for e-tags using passport identification and vehicle registration documents.
How much do Vietnam tolls typically cost?
Costs vary by distance and vehicle type. The system uses distance-based pricing similar to other countries in the region.
What if my e-tag is damaged or stolen?
Contact your provider (VETC or ePass) for replacement. ePass charges 120,000 VND for replacement tags after the initial free issuance.
Infrastructure Development
Expansion Timeline
- 2025 Target: 3,000 km of expressways operational
- 2030 Goal: 5,000 km network completion
- Current Focus: North-South Expressway system development
- International connectivity: Enhanced links to China, Laos, Cambodia borders
Technology Integration
- RFID standardization: Consistent technology across all providers
- Digital transformation: Advanced traffic management and toll collection
- Real-time monitoring: Enhanced supervision of toll revenue and traffic flow
- Smart infrastructure: Integration with broader transport digitalization
Economic Impact
- Private investment: BOT contracts accelerating development
- Government funding: State investment in key strategic routes
- Regional development: Improved connectivity boosting economic growth
- International trade: Enhanced logistics corridors for export/import
Useful Links & Resources
- VETC Official Website
- ePass (VDTC) Official Platform
- VETC Customer Service: Available at registration stations and roadside service points
- ePass Support: Mobile app and website customer service
