Answereda year ago
Can I obtain a Thai driver's license during a 10-day stay with a visa exemption?
*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?*
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.
19 repliesnewest first
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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.
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..?
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.
Simon *******
You do not need a Thai driving license if you are only coming for 10 days
David **********
you need a residency certificate
Thomas *******
@David *********
I had to get one for the DLT in Nong Khai. It took 8 days to receive it from immigration.David **********
then you are set ti get a licence
Raymond *********
Get an international driver license and you'll be good to go
Paul *******
@Raymond ********
WTF. There are no valid "International Drivers Licence". He already has an international drivers permit.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
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 **********
@Ron *****
where is your officeBob **********
@Ron *****
yea Bangkok ,Pattaya,Phucket that doesn’t happenRon ******
@Bob *********
Nakhon Phanom
Pete *******
That entirely depends on how busy the DLT Office is, you have to make an appointment and sometime that may be weeks away.
Phil ******
@Bob *****
yesBob ******
OPGood 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.
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 👏
Martin *********
Er... why do you need one for a 10 day stay?
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