Hanoi's AI traffic cameras identify five common violations as enforcement expands

On the evening of April 1, Hanoi Police officially announced the locations of AI cameras installed for automated penalty enforcement. The system currently includes 1,837 AI cameras, with plans to add another 2,460 cameras by July 2026.

Shift toward deterrence

Police said they chose to publicize camera locations openly rather than keeping them secret. The move is intended to shift enforcement from “ambush” to deterrence, encouraging drivers to adjust behavior when they know where monitoring is in place.

How AI cameras differ from traditional traffic cameras

Unlike older traffic cameras that record footage and require human review to identify violations, AI cameras can read license plates within seconds and cross-check them against the vehicle registration database to identify the owner immediately. The system measures speed, detects red-light running, lane violations, and illegal stopping, operating automatically 24/7 without shifts, holidays, or periods of inattention.

If a violation occurs at any time, including late at night, the camera records the incident and the automated penalty notification is still sent to the driver.

Penalty notification channels

Drivers do not need to actively check to learn about a penalty. The system contacts vehicle owners through three channels:

• By post: notices are sent to the vehicle’s registered address. If a second-hand vehicle has not had ownership transferred, the notice may be delivered to the previous owner.
• Proactive lookup: drivers can check violations by visiting csgt.vn or using the VNEtraffic app, entering the license plate to view the violation, time, location, and photo. Drivers can also use VNeID or Zalo “Hanoi Police” to look up and receive automatic notices when new violations occur.
• During vehicle inspection: the system displays all unprocessed penalties. A vehicle cannot pass inspection if penalties remain outstanding.

Broader rollout and practical impact

Hanoi is described as the largest-scale pilot. Similar systems are being implemented in Ho Chi Minh City and many provinces, and the approach is expected to be rolled out nationwide. Police guidance emphasizes that drivers should adjust their habits early, even if they are not currently in Hanoi.

Enforcement focus and compliance guidance

AI cameras are designed to enforce traffic rules automatically and consistently. They do not “decide” based on personal relationships and do not provide leniency for minor violations. The recommended approach is to understand the types of violations being prioritized, regularly check the license plate for any unprocessed penalties, and adjust driving habits to avoid unexpected notices.