Hà Nội lifts nighttime restrictions for pickups and small passenger vehicles

Hà Nôi has updated its traffic rules for commercial vehicles in urban areas. The changes, which take effect from April 30, ease restrictions on pickup trucks and certain passenger transport vehicles. Previously, many of these vehicles faced strict limits on operating hours.

Under the old regulations, most pickup truck models could only operate between 9pm and 6am. Now, these vehicles are permitted to run 24 hours a day. The update also affects specialist and special-purpose vehicles, which retain their night-time operating window.

Passenger transport vehicles with up to 29 seats now have full access to roads at all times. However, larger contract vehicles—those with more than 29 seats—and sleeper coaches remain restricted to off-peak hours. The new rules amend Decision 1, originally issued on January 4, 2026. Trucks with a gross vehicle weight of under two tonnes, however, still face time restrictions.

The revised regulations come into force on April 30. Pickup trucks and smaller passenger vehicles will no longer be limited to night-time travel. Larger coaches and heavy trucks, though, must continue following the previous off-peak schedule.