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Can I walk in and obtain a Thai driver's license the same day if I have an International Driving Permit, and do I need to take the training video?

Thai Driver's License International Driving Permit (IDP)DLT Appointment Driving License Regulations Medical Certificate Residency Certificate Video Training for Driver's License

Sep 4, 2025

3 days ago

John ****

ORIGINAL POSTER

Two questions on getting a Thai driver's license with my IDP. 

1st question:

I tried making an appointment with the DLT office online but no luck. So if I walk-in to one of the Bangkok offices (Bangchak or Chatuchak), am I able to get it done the same day (assuming I have all necessary docs), or will I likely get a queue number for a later date/time depending on their availability?  I wanted to plan accordingly as some of the documents (residence cert, medical cert) have a 30 days validity.

2nd question:

I have read that you don't need to take the 1 hour video training if you have an IDP unlike a regular driver's license from your home country you are converting from. Is this true?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The post inquires about the process of obtaining a Thai driver's license using an International Driving Permit (IDP) and asks whether a one-hour video training is necessary for IDP holders. Responses indicate that while it's possible to walk-in at DLT offices in Bangkok, same-day appointments are unlikely, and having the required documents (medical and residency certificates) ready is important. Multiple answers clarify that all applicants, even those with IDPs, are typically required to watch the training video and pass tests. Experiences with the appointment and document verification process vary, with some noting the necessity of having a local driver's license regardless of the IDP.

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Bob *********

in Bangkok I went without an appointment. I stood in line for several hours and then was told I needed an appointment. I was lucky enough to ask how, he showed me the book and there was a space for the next day so I made it next day I went back had both drivers and motorcycle license. I think it took me about 4 hours in total.

2 days ago

Henrik *****

Hope your not colorblind, then you will have problems.

3 days ago

Pete **********

@Henrik ****

you're the problem

2 days ago

Henrik *****

obviously you haven’t got a clue what you are talking about.

a day ago

Reply to

Henrik *****

Henry *********

An IDP is just a copy of your home licence.

3 days ago

Ian ********

@Henry ********

Rubbish.

3 days ago

Reply to

Ian ********

Pete **********

They'll want to see a driver's license from home country i dont think an IDP is enough. There's n online video and test. Everyone has to do it. Its super easy. You'll have to get a certificate of residence 300 baht at immigration, health check from a doctor for purpose of driving. 150 baht. Your passport copies of all the pertinent info. Lease agreement, blue book , passport photos and a couple hours at the bureau for drivers licenses.

3 days ago

Kevin *******

I went to Chatuchak, they checked my paperwork, gave me the link to the video to watch at home, and made an appointment three days later. Went back, showed proof that I watched the video and took the color, depth and peripheral tests. Got license. They did not care about my IDP, and they would not give me a motorcycle license even though I have one in the US.

3 days ago

Graham ******

@Kevin ******

You apply separately for a motorcycle license so need two of everything

3 days ago

Reply to

Graham ******

Pete *******

1) You go to the DLT office with your paperwork and they check it, then they give you an appointment sometime in the next few weeks. You will not get a same day appointment.

2) Yes you get put in a room where the 1hr video plays on repeat loop. Having an IDP is irrelevant.

3 days ago

Tony *****

@Pete ******

I must of been lucky. In Phetchabun they gave me the website details to watch the training and do the test on my mobile phone. ( so easy to do just an hour) then back to the DLT office with medical certificate. 30 minutes later left with both car and motorcycle licence. Took one morning. amazing how different it is in different places

3 days ago

Reply to

Tony *****

Terry ***********

I don’t know all the regulations however, I have yellow book and pink card. My local DLT says that I need a visa and, even with my IDP I was required to watch the online video to get the QR code.

3 days ago

Gerg **********

I had IDP and home driver license and had to watch the video.

3 days ago

Jesper *******

1) medical and residency cert is valid for 6mths for driving licence

2)I already have thai licence and i still need to take the 1hr video traning for my renewals......appts is easy to make on the DLT website but will be 2-3weeks advance and yes u can do walkins but have to be there VERY early

3 days ago

Reinhard ********

@Jesper ******

I got IT now for 10 years and never Had to Look a Video.Its different from province to province.

3 days ago

Bob **********

@Reinhard *******

my last license 5 yr I had to watch the video at the DLT it was my 3rd ????

3 days ago

Reply to

Bob **********

Jan ******************