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Can I obtain a Thai driver's license during a 10-day stay with a visa exemption?

Thai driver's license International driver's permit Visa exemption Thailand immigration Foreigners driving in Thailand DLT office Non-O visa

Oct 27, 2025

3 days ago

Bob ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

*I would appreciate advice. I am arriving by air into Bangkok for a 10-day stay in 2025. I will have a visa exemption (60-days).  I possess a valid driver’s license (auto) including an international driver’s permit. Will an agency be able to assist obtaining a driver’s license (auto) in Thailand for a foreigner?*

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The inquiry centers around whether a foreigner can obtain a Thai driver's license during a short 10-day stay in Thailand using a visa exemption. Responses suggest that for such a brief visit, obtaining a local license might not be necessary or practical, as an international driver’s permit is sufficient for driving. Moreover, the process of getting a Thai driver's license may be hindered by appointment wait times at the Department of Land Transport (DLT) offices and potentially requiring a residency certificate, which is difficult to obtain for short stays.

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Graham ******

Some DLT offices require a long stay visa such as a Non-O so if you are in a province that requires this the answer would be no.

2 days ago

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

You'll get one for 2 years... But personally I wouldn't waste a day of 10 day stay doing it when your ok with an international licence..?

2 days ago

Ron ******

It's quite likely that the DLT office will require documents you don't have during your 10-day stay. That aside, the initial licence is only valid for two years, half of which you won't be here. Come for your holiday and worry about a licence when you move here.

2 days ago

Simon *******

You do not need a Thai driving license if you are only coming for 10 days

2 days ago

David **********

you need a residency certificate

2 days ago

Thomas *******

@David *********

I had to get one for the DLT in Nong Khai. It took 8 days to receive it from immigration.

2 days ago

David **********

then you are set ti get a licence

2 days ago

Reply to

David **********

Raymond *********

Get an international driver license and you'll be good to go

2 days ago

Paul *******

@Raymond ********

WTF. There are no valid "International Drivers Licence". He already has an international drivers permit.

2 days ago

Reply to

Paul *******

Bob **********

It’s possible the time will be the problem most offices have a couple month back log maybe an agent can get you in

2 days ago

Ron ******

@Bob *********

He said he has a driver's licence and IDP. Why would it take so long? I walked into my DLT and out with my licence in less than 90 minutes. And most of that was sitting filling in time watching the Thai video while they processed it!

Bob **********

where is your office

Ron ******

Nakhon Phanom

Bob **********

yea Bangkok ,Pattaya,Phucket that doesn’t happen

2 days ago

Reply to

Bob **********

Pete *******

That entirely depends on how busy the DLT Office is, you have to make an appointment and sometime that may be weeks away.

3 days ago

Phil ******

@Bob *****

yes

3 days ago

Bob ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Good question - I plan to return to Thailand in late 2026 on a retirement visa. DLT is currently gathering public feedback on a draft, which outlines updated procedures for training, testing, and license renewal for both Thai and foreign drivers. I presume licensed drivers will be exempt from new rules such as written and practical tests.

3 days ago

Wayne ********

@Bob *****

The Provisional Transport Office of Surin, in Prasat, charge 5,000 baht for a drivers license, theory & practical driving test, vehicle supplied. My Miss’s just got her motorcycle licence, a 2 day course 1,000 baht. Now for her car license 👏

3 days ago

Reply to

Wayne ********

Martin *********

Er... why do you need one for a 10 day stay?

3 days ago

Reply to

Martin *********

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