Can you obtain or extend a 5-year driver's license in Thailand with a DTV?

DTV Visa Driving License in Thailand Thai Immigration Visa Requirements Long-term Visa Non-O Visa Driver's License Renewal

Sep 5, 2024

3 months ago

Paul *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

For those who've had their DTVs approved and already entered the Kingdom, has anyone tried to obtain a 5 year driver's license or extend a 5 year license for another 5 years using the DTV? I would expect it's permitted, but just wondering. If it isn't, then a marriage visa would be better (for those who are married to Thais).

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The conversation discusses whether holders of a Digital Tourist Visa (DTV) in Thailand can obtain or extend a 5-year driver's license. Many participants note that it is possible to get a driver's license with various visa types, including the DTV. However, there are concerns regarding the recognition of the DTV by banks and the Department of Land Transport (DLT) for issuing long-term licenses. Most contributors agree that DTV holders face challenges similar to those on tourist visas and must ideally have an Immigration Letter or Residence Certificate to ensure smoother processing. Ultimately, while some users have confirmed successful applications for the 5-year license with a DTV, the general consensus is that pursuing a Non-O or marriage visa may provide a more straightforward pathway.

DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
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Michael ********

Hi Paul James did you end out finding out?

I hold the 2-year temporary license, which expires tomorrow, October 11.

However, I need to obtain the 5-year permanent license, as it can be used internationally for KYC, whereas the temporary license cannot.

Historically, they have only issued the 5-year license to resident visa holders, and it seems that the DTV may fall under a TR visa class type, not Non-O.

That being said, the Elite Visa also falls under the TR visa class type, and holders are able to receive the 5-year license.

However.. Banks aren't yet recognizing the DTV, and I’m also concerned that the Department of Land Transport (DLT) office may not recognise it either.

(The Permeant 5yr can also be used in 10 ASEAN countries)

2 months ago

Michael ********

@Paul ******

- I was just informed by an agent, we can receive a 5 year licence on DTV.

I believe it depends on the Immigration Letter/Residence Certificate.

I'll be applying for licence renewal in Bangkok later this month.

Using this agent to assist:

@https://www.faceboo********************

2 months ago

Reply to

Michael ********

2 months ago

Paul *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Michael *******

Yes and someone else confirmed they were able to apply for a 5 year license on a DTV.

Seems the main issue for DTV holders is obtaining a Thai bank account, if they haven't already got one from previous residence in Thailand.

2 months ago

Michael ********

Banks just haven't caught up yet. They will fix it eventually. I view the DTV as a tax trap, as Thai tax laws recently changed, and the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) went into effect in Thailand in January 2024.

For 5,000-10,000 THB, Siam Legal provides documentation to open bank accounts with Bangkok Bank in Chiang Mai,Pattaya & Phuket

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2 months ago

Reply to

Michael ********

Ibrahim ******

I'm in the process of getting a driving licence, just waiting on my landlord to provide a tm30