HCMC – A new emission testing regime for automobiles will be implemented from early next month, according to the prime minister’s Decision No. 43/2025/QD-TTg.
The decision, which takes effect on March 1, aims to provide precise environmental data and accelerate the nation’s green transition goals as well as to modernize its transport infrastructure and reduce its carbon footprint.
The new regulations apply to all gasoline and diesel vehicles operating in Vietnam. Under the approved roadmap, vehicles must meet specific emission tiers based on their production year at the time of inspection.
Specifically, starting March 1, 2026, the tiers are structured as follows: Level 1 for vehicles manufactured before 1999; Level 2 for those built between 1999 and 2016; Level 3 for the 2017–2021 period; and Level 4 for all vehicles produced from 2022 onwards.
A more aggressive schedule will be enforced in Hanoi and HCMC to combat urban pollution. By January 1, 2027, vehicles from the 2017–2021 period in these two cities must upgrade to Level 4 standards. Furthermore, by January 1, 2028, newer vehicles (from 2022 onwards) operating in these metropolitan areas must comply with Level 5, the highest environmental standard in the current roadmap.
To avoid failed inspections and unnecessary costs, Vietnam Register advises vehicle owners to conduct proactive maintenance before their appointments. Key recommendations include oil changes, air filter replacements, combustion chamber cleaning and inspecting fuel injectors and high-pressure pumps. Owners should also ensure that catalytic converters and oxygen sensors are fully functional and utilize high-quality fuel to optimize engine efficiency.
