Vietnam to Laos & Cambodia by Motorbike: Border Crossing Guide for 2025

The Vietnam–Laos–Cambodia–Thailand border crossing remains a top choice for motorbike riders who are seeking the ultimate adventure across Southeast of Asia.

In 2025, crossing with motorcycle from Vietnam into Laos face new challenges due to an updated Lao customs regulations.

The new law required motorbike riders to book a local guide and official crossing permit to enter from Vietnam into Laos. However, with the right preparation, you can still navigate the most scenic and accessible border crossings with your motorbike.

This updated guide highlights the latest border formalities and helps you plan a smooth and legal overland motorbike trip through Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.

Border Crossing by Vietnamese Motorbike

Can I take a Vietnamese registered motorbike from Vietnam to Laos, Cambodia and Thailand? This is a question we receive every single day from travelers willing to ride a Vietnamese motorbike they probably buy in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and would like to find a way to across the border to Laos and other countries in the region.

Motorbike riders can legally cross the borders from Vietnam to Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand with a Vietnam-registered motorcycle, as long as they carry the required paperwork. Many riders successfully complete round trips from Vietnam to Laos and Cambodia, without facing any issues.

Requirements to cross the border with a motorbike

Travelers crossing borders from Vietnam with Vietnamese motorbike into Laos must secure both a local guide and a special crossing permit. To apply, contact a licensed tour operator or travel agency in advance. The process requires detailed information about your motorbike, travel itinerary, and personal details. Since approval can take up to 2 weeks, plan ahead and submit your application early.

Permit fees depend on your motorbike type and length of stay, so check with the tour operator for the latest rates. In addition, make sure to present following documents;

• Passport with validity of beyond 6 month
• Visa
• Motorbike Registration Document (known as blue card)
• International Driving Permit (IDP)

Which Vietnam–Laos border crossings allow motorbikes?

Carry all required documents, including your passport, visa, and motorcycle registration papers. At the Vietnam border, complete your exit forms and get your passport stamped. Then, head to the Laos side with visa already in your passport and request a temporary import permit for your motorcycle.

Note: The only land border that allow Laos Visa On Arrival is through Lao Bao (Vietnam side) to Dansavan (Lao Side). Check if your nationality is eligible for visa on arrival, so you can get a visa at Laos side.

Prepare Laos visa in advance if you’re planning to enter Laos through other land borders.

• Check out Laos Best Motorbike Routes

Top 5 popular border crossing

Although the new regulations might seem challenging, motorbike riders can still enter Laos from Vietnam with their motorbikes at several popular border crossings. Here are the main Vietnam–Laos border checkpoints open to foreign motorbike riders.

#1: Tay Trang – Sop Hun

The Tay Trang–Sop Hun border crossing connects Dien Bien Province in northern Vietnam with Phongsaly Province in Laos.

Located about 470 kilometers from Hanoi, this remote route features rugged terrain and attracts fewer tourists, making it ideal for adventurous motorbike riders seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The border typically operates daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours can vary, so it’s best to confirm locally before your trip.

#2: Na Meo – Nam Xoi

The Nam Soi–Na Meo border crossing links Thanh Hoa Province in Vietnam with Houaphanh Province in Laos.

Located about 260 kilometers from Hanoi, this route sees less traffic and offers a more remote ride. The road conditions is good.

The border usually operates from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so plan to arrive early.

#3: Nam Khan – Nam Kan

The Nam Khan–Nam Kan International checkpoint connects Nghe An Province in Vietnam with Xieng Khouang Province in Laos.

Located about 370 kilometers from Hanoi, this route features scenic landscapes and generally smooth road conditions.

It serves as a convenient option for motorbike travelers heading to the Plain of Jars.

The border typically opens from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

#4: Cau Treo – Nam Phao

The Cau Treo–Nam Phao border crossing links Ha Tinh Province in Vietnam with Bolikhamsai Province in Laos.

Located about 370 kilometers from Hanoi, this is one of the busiest and most well-known crossings in the region. Both sides offer fair road conditions, and the customs facilities efficiently process motorbike entries.

The border operates daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

#5: Lao Bao – Dansavanh

The Lao Bao–Dansavanh border crossing connects Quang Tri Province in Vietnam with Savannakhet Province in Laos.

Located about 620 kilometers from Hanoi, this route is popular with travelers heading to central Laos. It offers scenic views along the way and a smooth customs process for motorbike riders.

The border typically operates from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

Vietnam – Cambodia border crossing on a Motorbike

Crossing the border between Vietnam and Cambodia on a Vietnamese-registered motorbike: This is also a very common and practical way for so many travelers who are interested in to experience the terrain of both countries on a motorbike.

The most popular border check point, that allow foreigners to cross from Vietnam to Cambodia like Moc Bai–Bavet (near Ho Chi Minh City), Ha Tien–Prek Chak (On road QL80), and Tinh Bien–Phnom Den (near Chau Doc).

These crossings allow travelers to complete paperwork on arrival, including customs declarations and visa processing. Make sure to carry your original motorbike registration, passport, and valid visa.

While road conditions vary, most routes remain manageable for experienced riders. Always arrive early, as most border checkpoints operate from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Check out Vietnam Motorbike tour

Best border to cross with motorbike from Vietnam to Cambodia

Try to reach the borders as early as possible to avoid the crowd. Each border has it’s own formality but they all follow the same rules, carry your documents and make sure to check if you need a visa to enter Cambodia or not. Most nationalities are eligible to receive one at the border.

#1: Xa Mat – Trapang Phlong international check point

The Xa Mat–Trapeang Phlong international border checkpoint connects Tay Ninh Province in Vietnam with Kampong Cham Province in Cambodia.

Located approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this crossing offers a quiet and less congested route for motorbike travelers.

The road conditions on both sides remain decent, and the customs process usually moves quickly.

This checkpoint works well for those heading toward Phnom Penh or exploring the Cambodian countryside. The border operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

#2: Moc Bai – Bavet

The Moc Bai–Bavet border crossing connects Tay Ninh Province in Vietnam with Svay Rieng Province in Cambodia.

Located about 70 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this is the busiest and most accessible land checkpoint between the two countries. Travelers use this crossing frequently for direct routes to Phnom Penh.

Both sides offer well-developed infrastructure, efficient customs processing, and paved roads suitable for crossing with any types of motorbikes.

The border operates daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it a convenient option for riders planning a same-day crossing.

#3: Ha Tien – Prek Chak border crossing

The Ha Tien – Prek Chak border crossing connects Kien Giang Province in Vietnam with Kampot Province in Cambodia. Located roughly 330 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this checkpoint serves as the main route for travelers heading to the Cambodian coastal town of Kep or Kampot.

The road from Ha Tien to the border is in good condition, and the customs procedures on both sides move efficiently for motorbike travelers.

This crossing offers a scenic and relaxed alternative to the busier northern routes. The border operates daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

#4: Tinh Bien – Phnom Den border gate

The Tinh Bien–Phnom Den border gate connects An Giang Province in Vietnam with Takeo Province in Cambodia. Located approximately 250 kilometers west of Ho Chi Minh City, this crossing offers a quieter alternative for travelers heading to southern Cambodia.

The route passes through scenic rural landscapes and provides a smooth ride for motorbikes, although traffic remains lighter compared to major checkpoints.

Customs procedures at both ends operate efficiently, and the border gate is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This crossing works well for those planning to visit Kampot or Phnom Penh from Vietnam.

Tips for crossing the border from Vietnam to Cambodia With a Motorbike

Make sure to have the documents in hand, then attempt to cross the Vietnam–Cambodia border on a Vietnamese motorbike.

When officials ask about your reason for bringing a Vietnamese-registered motorbike across, explain that you’re traveling and exploring the two countries.

Arrive at the Vietnamese border checkpoint and complete the immigration procedures. Ride your motorbike along the designated path and let the officer know your destination and that your purpose is tourism.

Then, proceed to the Cambodian side of the border. There, customs officers may ask for journey details and usually charge a small processing fee of around 50,000 VND (about $2 USD). After they stamp your passport, you can continue your motorbike journey through Cambodia without delays.

How to Cross Thailand Cambodia Borders with a Vietnamese Motorbike

Crossing the border on a motorbike between Cambodia and Thailand remains a smooth process for most motorbike riders. Fortunately, both Cambodian and Thai border officers speak English, which makes communication easier for international riders.

First, complete the exit formalities on the Cambodian side. Then, ride over to the Thai checkpoint and park your motorbike. If you’re unsure about the next steps, ask the Thai staff—they’re usually helpful. After parking, go upstairs to finish the immigration procedures. The officers will take a photo of you and stamp your passport to confirm your motorbike entry into Thailand.

Poipet border crossing into Thailand with motorbike

Next, return to your bike and head to the parking area, where you’ll present your passport and motorbike documents to the officials. They’ll review your paperwork and make the necessary copies. Expect about a 30-minute wait during this step. Before you can ride your motorbike, you’ll need to pay a processing fee of 50 Thai baht.

Finally, ride a short distance to the second checkpoint. There, the staff will direct you to the correct parking spot and walk you through the final inspection. They will carefully verify your motorbike registration and other documents. This step takes around 15 minutes. Once you complete the verification, you’re free to continue your motorbike journey through Thailand.