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Can I get a Thai driver's license on a Tourist visa, and what is the validity of a Residency Certificate?
Thai driver's licenseTourist visaResidency CertificateVisa regulationsExpat life in ThailandImmigration advice
Oct 22, 2017
9 years ago
Valerie ********
ORIGINAL POSTERHello! I'm hoping for a bit of advice on getting a Thai drivers license. Can I get one while on a Tourist visa? Also, my current lease is almost over. If I go get the residency certificate now, will there be an expiration date on it?
TLDR : Answer Summary
Yes, you can obtain a Thai driver's license while on a Tourist visa. You'll need to provide proof of residence, a medical certificate, and copies of your passport and current visa. The temporary driver's license is typically valid for two years. As for the Residency Certificate, it is generally valid for 30 days in major cities like Bangkok, but it could be valid for up to 6 months in other regions. If you move, you'd need to get a new certificate.
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Bob ********
You can find english version of computerised multiple choice on line I did bike test two years ago, it realy helps to get a copy, english translation on test can cause some problems.
Valerie ********
ORIGINAL POSTERThanks!!
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Valerie ********
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Valerie ********
ORIGINAL POSTERThank you so much!!!
Tod *********
@El***
, to get a thai driver's license you need the following paperwork- proof of residence (work permit, letter from immigrations or notarized letter from your consulate)
- medical certificate (any health cert from any health clinic)
- copies of passport data page, current visa or entry stamp and the front & back of a valid drivers license from your country.
IF you have a drivers license you only take for aptitude tests: depth perception, reaction time, color blindness and peripheral vision. You do those watch a movie and get your 2 year temporary thai license(s) issued.
IF you don't have a valid license from your country in addition to the above things you also take a computerized multiple choice test and do the practical driving test on their track at the DOL.
Elani *******************
What did you need to take in order to do a thai license?
Johnsuma ******
@Tod ********
in Surat they need DL translated & certified, i guess its different in BKK and in many other citiesTod *********
@Parme*****
, If your driver's license has english on it there is no need to translate your licenseJohnsuma ******
if you have a DL in your country, just translate it and go to konson, to pass the eyes and few other check.
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Johnsuma ******
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Valerie ********
ORIGINAL POSTERI only had a car license back home and know the motorbike process is a bit more work here since it's not just a transfer of the same skills. Thank you guys for taking the time to help!! I'm hopeful about this process
Hazel *******
I got a 'temporary' licence with a 2 year validity date. It can be done.
Allan ******
They will give you a temporary license for 1 year.
When you renew it you'll get 2 years if you are still on a tourist visa.
When you renew it you'll get 2 years if you are still on a tourist visa.
Lloyd ********
Incorrect, temp licences are now 2 years and "normal" ones are 5 years.
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Lloyd ********
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Joe ***********
Residency Certificate is good for 6 months. But if you move in the 6 months - then new Residency Certificate.
Ron *******
Except in Bangkok. You cannot get a residency certificate unless you are doing 90 day reports. They won't issue one.
Joe ***********
Go to the Local Thai Immigration office. Take your Rental Agreement / Lease - original and copy with photocopy of the property owner's ID and photocopy of the Tambian Ban. Ask for a Residency Certificate - which is a full page Form Letter signed by an officer plus some will put a
***
page document folded into your passportJoe ***********
Most things are just easier down south. No charge for the RC and last 6 months
Tod *********
@R**
, Same in bangkok, 30 days, no matter if they're from your consulate or from the immigration office :/ .Ron *******
Residency certificates issued by Jomtien immigration are only valid for 30 days.
Lloyd ********
If you tell them ;-)
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Lloyd ********
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