Vietnam Revamps Fire Vehicle Licensing Procedures

Post by : Shakul

The Ministry of Public Security in Vietnam has introduced interim measures designed to simplify the licensing and inspection protocols for firefighting and rescue vehicles. This change follows numerous complaints from businesses concerning lengthy delays and increasing backlogs in equipment approvals.

With the new regulations, organizations and companies can select between obtaining an inspection certificate or a circulation license for their firefighting vehicles during the transition period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Starting July 1, 2026, only circulation licenses will be available for such vehicles.

This policy update comes as businesses in the fire prevention sector reported significant delays in securing the necessary inspection approvals essential for their construction and operational plans. Companies revealed that processing times, which once took about one month, have surged to three or four months due to a scarcity of operational inspection units.

A representative from Ho Chi Minh City indicated that the limited number of authorized inspection organizations has resulted in prolonged waiting periods, thereby hindering project timelines. Business owners urged the authorities to refine the approval mechanism to allow smoother operations without severe interruptions.

According to the Ministry, imported firefighting and rescue vehicles with validated international quality standards and ISO/IEC 17025 compliant testing results may apply directly for circulation permits under the updated rules. This change aims to alleviate the workload on domestic inspection agencies and streamline approval processes.

Officials further announced that more organizations are being accredited to conduct testing for firefighting and rescue equipment. Several testing units in Hanoi recently received registration for testing equipment including fire pumps, alarm systems, emergency lighting, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. Additional testing centers are also in the process of completing their designation procedures.

Authorities are optimistic that the broadening of testing organizations and the implementation of flexible licensing alternatives will lead to a decrease in application backlogs and enhance overall efficiency in the fire safety field. The government reiterated that all equipment and vehicles must adhere to national safety standards and technical regulations prior to circulation.

The Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police Department has released comprehensive guidelines on circulation permits and inspection processes on its official site. Businesses engaged in the firefighting and rescue vehicle sector are encouraged to thoroughly familiarize themselves with the updated regulations and adhere to the necessary procedures during the transitional phase.