How to get a Thai driver's license

If you have a foreign license already, it is quite easy to obtain a Thai license. This is what you will need:

  • Work Permit (with home address) OR Certificate of residence from Thai Immigration (you can see the requirements for that [here]. The government cost is 1000 THB. We can arrange this paper for you. See the services page for details
  • 5 diseases health certificate which you can get for about 50 THB at almost any clinic (must use within 30 days of issue)
  • A printed description of your license classifications from your Country/State’s DMV/DLT department website. (ie, M1, C, etc), as well as a copy of the front and back of your license
  • Signed copy of your passport (picture page, current visa page, TM-30, and departure card)
  • Fee: The cost for the car drivers license card is about 205 THB per card (car and motorcycle license cards are issued separately)

 

If you are going to do a motorcycle license too, you will need to make another copy of all your documents as well. 

Initially you will get a 1 year “temporary”, then you will have to come back to renew with the same paperwork again and the fee will be 605 THB for the 5 years card.

If you do not have a foreign license or it is expired, in addition to the paperwork above, you need to be there at about 8:30 to sit through a 4 hour training course (in Thai so take a translator if you want), then take the written (English available) and driving tests (you need to provide your own vehicle). Be prepared for a full day event.

 

Driver’s License Application Process:

 

Other Helpful Resources:

 

Driver’s License Assistance Services:

 

Driving In Thailand Info

 

Driving Schools

 

Outbound Links:

  • Vehicle Title Services page to heading for Residency Certificate Service & paperwork requirements
  • How to obtain a Thai driver’s license

Downloads:

  • Study Manual

 

Images

  • Thai Drivers License