Can I drive in Thailand with an Indonesian SIM?

Question

Hi everyone
I’m currently applying for the DTV and trying to clarify driving regulations in Thailand.

As I don’t have the possibility to obtain an International Driving Permit from my home country in the short term, I started researching legal alternatives and found online references (including Wikipedia) about possible recognition of ASEAN driving licenses, specifically the Indonesian SIM.

I’m looking for real, first-hand experiences only:

– has anyone actually driven in Thailand with an Indonesian SIM?

– was it accepted during police checks or in case of an accident?

– from an insurance perspective, was it considered valid?

My goal is to stay fully legal and insured, not to rely on “it usually works”.

If you have concrete cases or official confirmations, I’d really appreciate your input 🙏

Thanks!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The conversation addresses the validity of using an Indonesian driver's license (SIM) for driving in Thailand, particularly for those holding a DTV visa. Responses indicate that an Indonesian SIM is accepted for driving in Thailand for up to 90 days, equating it to an international driving permit in legal situations, including police checks and insurance claims. However, it's advised to consider applying for a Thai driver's license through the Department of Land Transport for longer stays and legal clarity.

Shanti ********** · Answer

I’m assuming you are not Indonesian. If that’s the case you should also confirm that your Indonesian visa allows for license and i think that requires KITAS. I know it’s quite easy to get Indonesian sim through visa agents but if you aren’t legally permitted it could be an issue if you ever had an accident. As mentioned it’s pretty easy to get Thai DL here. Depending on what license you have currently it may be accepted for conversion without doing driving test. Incidentally Thai 2 year temporary will not allow asean driving or IDP for that you need 5 year license which generally isn’t possible with DTV. Some people do get the 5 year after 2 year temporary expires, but from my understanding it  requires o type visa.

Anonymous ****************** · Answer

Real first hand experience = it usually works, you ask for mutually exclusive advice, just apply to the Local dlt and take the tests your license will be ready in a few weeks it's not really that hard, you don't need a prior DL, it can be done from scratch, otherwise just ride and pay 500-1000 during infrequent checks

Wannikea ********* · Answer

Come to Thailand and get a Thai driver's license at the department of Land Transport

Jan ****************** · Answer

You can drive legally in Thailand with an Indonesian driver's license (SIM) for up to 90 days per entry. The license is considered fully legal under the same conditions as an international driving permit for police control and insurance purposes. If needed, you can also apply for a Thai license with a residence certificate, a standard doctor's statement by passing a practical and theoretical test.

Can I drive in Thailand with an Indonesian SIM?

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