Car Rental in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is not only the lively streets of Saigon, but also the rice fields of the Mekong Delta, the fruit gardens of Ben Tre, and the canals of Vinh Long. Public transport does not go to these areas, and regular taxi rides are expensive. Renting a car in Ho Chi Minh City allows you to plan your own route and experience the real Southern Vietnam.

With your own vehicle, you can watch the sunrise at the Cai Be floating market, explore the ancient temples of Tay Ninh, or head to the Vung Tau coast at a convenient time. You won’t have to adjust to bus schedules, wait for shared transport, or limit yourself to standard tourist programs.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Ho Chi Minh City

The rental price in Ho Chi Minh City is based on three factors: car class, season, and rental duration. For long-term rentals of one week or more, the daily rate usually decreases. In the mid-season, you can expect the following:

• Compact models such as Hyundai i10 or Kia Morning start from $25 per day.
• Mid-size sedans like Hyundai Accent or Toyota Vios are available for $35–45.
• Spacious crossovers such as Hyundai Santafe or Mitsubishi Xpander cost $50–60.
• For larger groups, it is worth renting a minivan, with prices starting from $55 per day.

During peak tourist season, prices increase by 15–20%, especially for popular vehicles, while in the low season rates are lower.

Car Rental in Ho Chi Minh City Without a Deposit

A security deposit is standard practice when renting a car in Ho Chi Minh City, and finding a rental without a deposit is nearly impossible. The deposit amount usually ranges from $400 to $700 depending on the vehicle class and rental duration. This amount covers potential risks during vehicle use.

Local companies commonly accept the deposit in cash or via debit card, so you can rent a car in Ho Chi Minh City without a credit card. This is especially relevant for Russian tourists due to card restrictions. After the vehicle inspection upon return, the deposit is refunded in full.

What Cars Can You Rent in Ho Chi Minh City

The car rental fleet in Ho Chi Minh City mainly consists of models popular in Southeast Asia. The most common brands are Mazda, MG, Toyota, and Suzuki — these vehicles are known for reliability and fuel efficiency.

Their technical specifications are sufficient for confident driving on city highways with heavy traffic. For family trips, 7-seater SUVs such as Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Fortuner are available.

Driver Requirements for Car Rental in Ho Chi Minh City

To sign the rental agreement, you will need a valid driver’s license, passport, and booking confirmation. A voucher sent to your email is acceptable — you can present it printed or on your phone.

Age requirements vary among rental companies. The minimum renter age is usually 19, and the required driving experience starts from 1 year. All conditions are shown in each vehicle’s rental terms. When searching for a car, use filters for age and driving experience to see only available options.

FAQ

What additional expenses should I consider when renting?

Additional expenses include fuel, toll roads between provinces, city parking, and possible fines. Pay special attention to toll roads — for example, driving on the Ho Chi Minh – Cholong – An highway may cost $3–5. Many parking areas in the business district operate on an hourly basis, which can significantly increase costs during long stays.

What driver’s license do I need to rent a car?

To legally drive, you need two documents: a national driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. Original documents are required — photocopies or phone photos are not accepted. Make sure all documents are valid before the rental period.

Where can I pick up the rental car?

You can pick up the vehicle at the rental company office, Tan Son Nhat Airport, or have it delivered to your hotel or apartment. When booking, confirm the delivery conditions — it may be free or paid. 24/7 rental is available at the airport, but picking up the car from 22:00 to 06:00 may incur an extra fee. All handover details are specified in the rental agreement.

Are trips to other cities allowed?

A rented car can be used for travel across all provinces of Vietnam. Popular routes include trips to the Vung Tau resort, the mountainous city of Da Lat, or the floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Inform the rental company about your planned route — this helps them recommend a suitable vehicle and prepare any necessary documents. Note that crossing the border to Cambodia or Laos is strictly prohibited by rental terms.

Can I share driving with another person?

Yes, this is allowed provided all drivers are listed in the rental agreement. Each additional driver must meet the age requirements and have all necessary documents. Adding a second driver usually requires a small fee. If a person not listed in the contract drives the car, the insurance becomes invalid. All drivers sign the agreement when receiving the vehicle.

Where is the best place to park in Ho Chi Minh City?

In central areas, use paid and guarded parking at shopping malls. Free parking at restaurants and cafés is usually crowded. On the narrow streets of District 1, parking is often prohibited by red-striped signs. At night, it is best to use the hotel’s guarded parking.