From July 1, Vietnam's driving license examination process will undergo significant changes, as announced by the Ministry of Public Security. One of the most notable alterations is the elimination of the simulation test that assessed candidates' ability to handle traffic situations using a computer. This decision comes after four years of implementation, during which authorities found the simulation test to be unrealistic and not reflective of actual traffic conditions.

The revised examination process will revert to three main components: a theoretical test, a practical test on a closed course, and a road test. Candidates must pass each section sequentially. In the theoretical part, the number of questions will increase from 30 to 50, and the time allowed for completion will extend from 20 minutes to 33 minutes. To pass, candidates must answer at least 45 out of 50 questions correctly.

Additionally, the new regulations will introduce knowledge about the Penal Code related to traffic safety offenses, administrative violations in road traffic, and accident prevention measures. For the practical driving test, candidates will need to navigate a minimum distance of 5 kilometers under moderate traffic conditions, encountering various scenarios such as intersections, roundabouts, traffic signals, and pedestrian crossings.

During the practical assessment, candidates will perform 12 specific tasks, including vehicle safety checks, overtaking, lane changes, and yielding to pedestrians. Notably, candidates will have the opportunity to retake tasks multiple times and in any order, enhancing their chances of passing the exam.

These changes come in response to data analysis indicating that many newly licensed drivers possess only basic vehicle control skills but lack essential road ethics and traffic participation skills. Furthermore, starting July 1, the training process for driving will also see modifications, including a reduction of 50 kilometers in practical driving distance on training grounds and a decrease of 7 hours in training time for certain vehicle categories. Aspiring drivers will also receive additional training in fire prevention and rescue skills.

In summary, these updates aim to improve road safety and ensure that new drivers are better equipped to handle real-world driving challenges.