Can I buy a motorbike in Thailand while on a 30-day exemption, and what documents do I need?

Dec 21, 2017
7 years ago
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I want to buy a motorbike for my stay here, but am currently on a 30 day exemption extension. Can I? Anyone know what documents are required to transfer ownership? Maybe easier to get a Thai friend to buy it in their name?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A user in Thailand on a 30-day exemption extension inquired about purchasing a motorbike and the necessary documentation. Several commenters confirmed that it is possible to buy a bike without a tourist visa if you can provide proof of residence from the immigration office or consulate. Suggested documents include signed copies of both the seller's and buyer's documents, a resident certificate, and photocopies of the buyer's passport and entry stamp. There are concerns about transferring ownership to a Thai friend, as it may lead to complications, unless total trust exists. Buying from a Yamaha dealer is suggested to simplify the process.
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I have thai relatives and close friends. So saying "never put in thai name" sounds a bit prejudiced to me.
Robert **********
Another worthy question! So why not just rent?
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
What I mean is that I would go with my Thai family member who I have known for thirty plus years and trust implicitly. I would give them the money to pay for the bike, and it would be in their name. Then I would have the use of it until I leave at which time they will keep the bike. I suppose it would be the same if _I_ hit a person with the bike in their name, then _they_ would be liable.
Herbert ****
1. u know if he make an accident, or driving to fast, not stopped at red light... u are paying for it!

2. u know when someone makes with it and without a driving license a accident and a child are killed, maybe u go to jail for it? I didn't want risk it, but everyone take the one choice and must living with
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Sorry you had trouble. Just saying not all thais are problematic. Plus i would leave the bike with them anyway when i leave...
Herbert ****
we can talking about if yours friends shit you anytime! I also thinks before, I hade friends, I know this peoples sone years, than I want they do anything for me and played, after I return, they not do, I paid many more, and lost the money I given and they not remember about my money, and it was security of the house ๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚, that's only one of my storeys, before I take my hands into the fire about this Family
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Not taking it personally, I just think the comment was thoughtless. ๐Ÿ˜•
Andre **********************
Becuz they donโ€™t have any Thai relatives etc thus the negativity. Please donโ€™t take it to heart. โœŒ๏ธ
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Buying second hand not new...
Herbert ****
and important all taxes are paid!
David **********
Don't put the bike in a Thai friend's name unless you are willing to "gift" them the bike.

For an extra 500 or 900 Baht the Yamaha dealer will handle the whole transaction for you. You will not have to go to any government offices.
Joe ***********
No greenbook don't buy
Andre **********************
And pay cash ๐Ÿ’ฐ
Barry ******
Yes you can. Just need the resident certificate from immigration or your embassy, signed copies of the sellers documents, greenbook, and photocopies of your passport photo page, entry stamp and departure card.
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks Tod! You're a real help!
Pilinka *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
oh - ok. So even if I don't have a tourist visa. I can still do it - just a matter of having the proof of where I'm living, right?
Tod *********
the proof of living here has to come from either the immigration office or your consulate. They don't accept anything else at the Dept of Land Transport
Tod *********
you need a proof of residence document from either the immigration office where you live or from your consulate here.
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