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Can a person with a Non-O visa convert a foreign driver's license to a Thai driver's license if the licenses are from different countries?

Thai driver's license Non-O visa international driver's license license conversion expat advice visa regulations Thailand driving laws

Sep 13, 2017

9 years ago

Ellie *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

[edit a bit to clear my question..]

If not appropriate or asked often, I apologize...

In case he is staying in Thailand with Non-O retirement, and his driver's license is from different country from his passport with visa, Is it possible to get Thai driver's license transfer from valid international driver's license from another country? Maybe  with just a bit of additional step?

One of my friend wants to get Thai driver's license, and he has dual passports. Staying here with his Non-O visa on one of his passports. He has valid international driver's license of the country of another passport. Is there any possible way to "convert" to Thai one other than following the all proper process?

I tried to find the previous post, but could not find the info well enough..

Thank you in advance..

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The process for converting a foreign driver's license to a Thai driver's license can be complicated, especially if the driver's license and the passport country are different. Generally, an individual must have a resident permit that corresponds with their visa and passport for the conversion to be possible. If the foreign license is in English, there may be a streamlined process including a medical certificate, photos, and passing tests. However, if the license is not from the same country as the visa, it is likely they must go through the complete testing process to obtain a Thai license. Checking with the local Department of Land Transport (DLT) is recommended for specific requirements and processes.

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Ellie *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you, Ron.

I don't worry about English of document much. Some consulates of some countries provide official translation of driving license. (I did mine before).

Anyway, his chance to be able to conversion seems to be super slim..😢

9 years ago

Ron *******

You've listed all he has to do I think. He needs a medical certificate and residents permit plus a couple of pictures. I cannot think of a way he can do it if he has a licence but not the same country as his passport. If his licence isn't in English he couldn't just convert it anyway.

9 years ago

Ellie *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you Ron.

So 'complete test' means he needs to do all thing from scratch, paper test, actual driving test, colour and reaction test...., and what else?

9 years ago

Ron *******

If his licence is different to his passport country he cannot do the conversation. He will need a residents permit which will match his passport and visa. If his licence doesn't match, he in effect cannot drive here without doing the complete test and gain a 2 year temporary Thai licence.

9 years ago

Reiner *********

Correct

9 years ago

Reply to

Reiner *********

Ron *******

If his licence is in English he can watch the video and do the colour and reaction test. It takes half a day. Remember too, an International drivers permit is only valid for 90 days in Thailand. After 90 days he must get a Thai licence to be driving legally and to be covered on his insurance.

9 years ago

Ellie *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you for all the info. I understand abut the standard process. I'm wondering if my friend could do because his license is issued by a different country from his passport country to enter the kingdom. Preferably just with some additional papers...

9 years ago

Valère *************************

From some countries, you can actually convert your drivers' license into a Thai one. But the list is limited and for some countries, there are extra requirements and/or restrictions. Best is just to go to the nearest Transportation Office and check if you qualify.... and get an up to date "to do" list from them.

9 years ago

Valère *************************

Unfortunately yes. Also, as with e erything in Thailand,... different requirements on additional paperwork vary per province also.... and you might (or not) need a verified translation from your Embassy or Consulate....

9 years ago

Ellie *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Both of his passports are valid to convert. Seems like to be the only the way to see if it's possible is going to DLT...

9 years ago

Reply to

Ellie *******

Si ********

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9 years ago

Reply to

Si ********