Vietnamese-language written tests are available in most states, but the process and availability vary significantly by location

If you read and write Vietnamese more comfortably than English, you can take your written driver license test in Vietnamese in most U.S. states. However, not every state offers it, not every DMV office administers it, and the way you request it differs by state. Some states let you request a Vietnamese test when you book your appointment online; others require you to call ahead or show up in person with proof of residency. A few states do not offer Vietnamese at all and may direct you to an interpreter service instead.

The written test itself — the questions, the number of items, the passing score — is identical to the English version. What changes is only the language the questions appear in. You still answer on a computer, paper form, or touchscreen depending on your state's system, and you still need to pass the same percentage to move forward.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states offer Vietnamese-language written tests, but you must request it in advance — do not assume your local DMV office has it available without asking.
  • The request method varies: some states let you select Vietnamese when you book online, others require a phone call or in-person notice before your test date.
  • A few states do not offer Vietnamese tests and may require you to bring a certified interpreter or use a phone interpretation service at your own cost.
  • The test content and passing score are identical to the English version; only the language of the questions changes.
  • Call your state DMV or check the website for your specific office location before you schedule, because availability can differ between DMV branches in the same state.

Which states offer Vietnamese-language written tests

States with larger Vietnamese-speaking populations — California, Texas, Florida, Virginia, and Washington — consistently offer Vietnamese tests at most or all DMV locations. States with smaller Vietnamese communities may offer it at only a few major offices or not at all. New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois offer Vietnamese at select locations in cities with significant Vietnamese populations but not statewide.

The safest approach is to contact your state DMV directly before you schedule your test appointment. Call the main DMV phone line for your state or visit the official DMV website and search for "Vietnamese test" or "language options." Many state websites now list which languages are available at each office location. If the website does not specify, call the specific DMV branch where you plan to test.

If your state does not offer Vietnamese, you have two options: take the test in English, or ask whether the DMV allows you to bring a certified interpreter. Some states permit this; others do not. A certified interpreter is not the same as a family member or friend — the interpreter must hold a credential from a court or professional interpreting body. This option is usually expensive and must be arranged in advance with the DMV.

How to request a Vietnamese-language test

The request method depends on your state's system. In California, Texas, and Florida, you can often select Vietnamese as your test language when you book your appointment online through the DMV website. Look for a "language preference" or "test language" dropdown menu during the appointment booking process. If you do not see this option online, you will need to call or visit in person.

In states where online booking does not include language selection, call the DMV at least three to five business days before your planned test date. Have your driver's license number or state ID number ready, and tell the staff member you need a Vietnamese-language written test. Ask them to confirm that Vietnamese is available at the specific office location and time you want. Some DMV phone lines are busy; if you cannot reach anyone, visit the office in person and request it at the counter.

A few states require you to submit a written request form or bring documentation of your language preference when you arrive for your test. Check your state's website or call ahead to learn whether this applies to you. Arriving without having requested Vietnamese in advance may mean you cannot take the test that day and will have to reschedule.

What to bring and what to expect on test day

Bring the same documents you would bring for an English-language test: a valid passport, state ID, or other government-issued photo ID; proof of your Social Security number; and proof of your state residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). If you requested a Vietnamese test by phone, bring written confirmation of that request if the DMV provided it, though staff should have a record in their system.

When you arrive, tell the staff member at the counter that you are there for a Vietnamese-language test. They will direct you to the testing station. The test itself works the same way as the English version: you will answer multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The number of questions and the passing score are identical. You typically have 30 to 45 minutes to complete it, depending on your state.

If you fail the test, you can usually retake it after a waiting period (often 7 to 14 days). You can request Vietnamese again for your retake using the same method you used for your first attempt.

States that do not offer Vietnamese tests

Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, North Dakota, Vermont, and New Hampshire do not currently offer Vietnamese-language written tests. If you live in one of these states and are not comfortable taking the test in English, contact your state DMV to ask about interpreter options. Some states in this group will allow you to bring a certified interpreter; others will not.

If your state permits interpreters, you will need to hire and pay for one yourself — the DMV does not provide or pay for interpretation services. The interpreter must be certified, which usually means they hold credentials from a court system, a professional interpreting organization, or a state-approved body. You will need to arrange this with the DMV in advance and may need to provide proof of the interpreter's credentials before your test date.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most common mistake is not requesting Vietnamese early enough. If you call the DMV the day before your test and ask for a Vietnamese test, the office may not be able to accommodate you. Request it at least three to five business days in advance, or when you first book your appointment if the system allows it.

Another mistake is assuming your local DMV office has Vietnamese available because a different office in your state does. Availability varies by location. Always confirm with the specific office where you plan to test, not just your state DMV in general.

Do not bring a family member or friend to interpret for you unless the DMV has explicitly approved this in writing. Most states do not allow it, and doing so without permission can result in your test being cancelled and your fee forfeited. If interpretation is allowed in your state, use only a certified interpreter.

What happens after you pass the Vietnamese written test

Passing the Vietnamese written test qualifies you for the road test (driving test) in the same way passing the English version does. You do not need to take the written test again. Your next step is to schedule your road test appointment, which is conducted by a DMV examiner and does not require a Vietnamese-language option — the examiner will give you instructions in English, though they may speak slowly or repeat if you ask.

Some states allow you to request an interpreter for the road test as well, but this is less common than for the written test. Ask your DMV when you schedule your road test whether this option is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in Vietnamese if I have a learner's permit already?

Yes. If you are renewing your learner's permit or upgrading to a full license, you can request a Vietnamese-language written test. The process is the same: request it in advance through your state's preferred method, and bring the same documents you would bring for any written test.

What if the DMV office near me does not have Vietnamese available?

You have three options: travel to a DMV office in your state that does offer Vietnamese, take the test in English, or ask whether your state allows certified interpreters. Check your state DMV website to find which offices offer Vietnamese, or call your local office and ask them which nearby location does.

Do I need to tell the road test examiner that I took the written test in Vietnamese?

No. The examiner will not know or care which language you used for the written test. They will conduct the road test according to standard procedures. If you need the examiner to speak slowly or repeat instructions, you can ask, but you do not need to mention the written test language.

Can I use my phone to translate the English test instead of requesting Vietnamese?

No. Using a phone, translator app, or any other device during the test is not allowed and will result in your test being cancelled. You must request a Vietnamese-language test in advance if you need one.

How long does it take to get results after I take the Vietnamese written test?

Results are usually available when ready or within a few minutes after you finish. The examiner or staff member will tell you whether you passed or failed before you leave the DMV office. You will receive a printed result slip or confirmation.