Can I obtain a residency certificate in Thailand a month before renewing my driver's license?

Residency Certificate Thai Driver's License Visa Requirements Immigration Process Chiang Mai Hua Hin Sri Racha Expat Life in Thailand Documents Needed for Residency

Jun 11, 2024

7 months ago

Michael ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi everybody! I have to renew my driver's license next month. Is it possible to have the residency certificate done already one month before your renewal appointment or do they need it dated the week or even the day you apply for the new license? Thanks, your advice will be appreciated.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The residency certificate needed for renewing a driver's license in Thailand is valid for 30 days after issuance. It is best to check with the local Transport office regarding their specific requirements and timing, as it may vary by location. Some users report that residency certificates can be obtained quickly at some immigration offices, usually requiring a few specific documents, including a passport, visa, and proof of residency.

Stuart ***********

I think it will vary by Transport office, so probably worth checking with them. I did mine this week and I got my medical certificate and immigration letter a couple of weeks ago. Good luck.

7 months ago

Randula ***************

@Stuart **********

can I know what is this immigration letter ans the process to get it? And how much it cost?

7 months ago

Graham ******

@Randula **************

Like all things at Immigration there is a form to complete with your details and tick boxes where you state for what purpose you need the Residence Certificate. It tales a couple of minutes to complete.

7 months ago

Stuart ***********

@Randula **************

I forgot to explain, the process is very simple. Find the section that prepares the residency letter, give them your documents, they will check them and you pay the fee. Hua Hin and Sri Racha issue the letter within a few minutes, but some offices post them out the next day. I always go when I think it will be quiet, maybe 2pm on a Thursday (something like that). You need one of these letters for other things too, like opening a bank account or buying/registering a car/motorcycle. Good luck.

7 months ago

Randula ***************

@Stuart **********

thanks alot for the infor 😀

7 months ago

Stuart ***********

@Randula **************

you are welcome sir.

7 months ago

Reply to

Stuart ***********

@Randula **************

it is proof of residency. The immigration requirements vary, so it's worth checking with the one closest to you, but it's the usual stuff; passport, visa, house lease agreement all with photocopies a passport photograph and 200 baht at my local immigration (although online I read some cost 500 and some are free).

7 months ago

Reply to

Stuart ***********

Ian ********

AHH, that was for Chiang Mai

7 months ago

Ian ********

Residency certificate lasts 30 days after it is issued.

Takes about 3 weeks to arrive if you get it posted or pay 500 bath for next day.

Mine have always been dated a day or two before I received them. Chiang Mai

7 months ago

Michael ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ian *******

Thanks, that helps.

7 months ago

Graham ******

@Ian *******

That depends on the province. In Sa Kaeo it is free and issued within about 30 minutes of completing the application.

7 months ago

กะลาสี *****

@Graham *****

agreed. Last time I got one at Jomtien Immigration ( maybe 5 years ago) it was 300 Baht and I had to wait about an hour.

7 months ago

Reply to

กะลาสี *****

Martyn ***********

Do you know your ok up to a year after expiry? And if you do after your birthday you get 5 years from then...?

7 months ago

Stuart ***********

@Martyn **********

you can renew it up to a year after expiry without starting from scratch, but you are not allowed to drive without a current licence. If you do you are breaking the law and also not insured, so not recommended. It's true that when you renew you get 5 years plus up to your next birthday, so if you time it right you can get a nearly 6 year licence.

7 months ago

Reply to

Stuart ***********

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What is the proper procedure to renew a 5-year driver's license in Thailand?

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