Living In Thailand: Getting a Thai Driver's License

“If the police pull you over, give them 200 baht and move on”.

It’s true that corruption is a problem (solution to many) in Thailand. We encourage that if you are to drive, be it a motorbike or car, that you do it legally. It’s actually quite a simple process. Those with a Thai driver’s license will also be looked on more ‘favourably’ for offences such as not carrying your passport at all times.

Do I need it?

If you are in the country for longer than 90 days, then yes. If you live in a neighbourhood with a large number of foreign residents, I would say definitely yes. Being pulled over is commonplace, don’t take the risk.

Stories of being let off, 200 baht fines, 1,000 fines, vehicles seized and overnight stays in luxury police cells are common place. Don’t risk it.

People with licenses from Malaysia, Laos or Singapore need not apply. These count in Thailand too.

Is an international driver’s license ok?

Yes, but not forever. A foreigner is allowed to drive on an international driver’s license for 6 months. After that, you will need a Thai one. That means if you are pulled over once, you will need a Thai license next time or face bigger trouble.

Do I need to test?

Hopefully, no. It seems a nightmare. Under an agreement with Thailand, people with a license from most countries do not need to test for a Thai license. These countries include The USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand, Australia. If in doubt, contact your embassy. I would so however, if you’re reading this, you don’t need to test, you only need to apply.

Phew.

So, what do you need?

First, a Thai person. Unless you are fluent and can read and write perfectly in Thai. You need someone to translate the forms for you. This is essential. A smile doesn’t work here!

Still, a smile is always welcome!

You also need:

· Passport with valid non-immigrant visa (a tourist visa is not accepted)

· Work Permit: if no work permit is held then a Certificate of Residence issued by the Thai Immigration Bureau or a Letter of Residence issued by the appropriate embassy will usually be sufficient, but telephone to confirm. The work permit must be valid and the letter or certificate no more than 30 days old

· Medical certificate from a hospital or health clinic which must be no more than 30 days old

· Two photographs, 1x1 inch, no more than six months old. In some offices photos are not required as they will be taken with DLT cameras as part of the process

· Valid international or foreign driving licence. A foreign driving licence must have a certified translation issued by the Embassy. Foreign driving licenses in the English language will sometimes be accepted with no translation necessary

· Fee: 105 baht.

Tips: Get there before 8:30 AM. If you have experience in Thailand with visas etc, you will not be surprised to learn that the whole process might take a few hours. Be prepared to wait.

Where can I get this done?

It will need to be done in person and can be done at the following places in Bangkok:

Department of Land Transport

1032 Phaholyothin Road (opposite Jatujak Market) Lardyao sub-district, Jatujak district, Bangkok

tel: 272-5322, 272-5493.