Answered2 months ago
How can I apply for a Thai driving license as a UK driver with a 5-year DTV?
Hi all. I have just been awarded a 5 yesr DTV. As a UK driving licence holder, how can I apply to get a driving licence for a car in Thailand? I currently ride a 160cc scooter on an International Driving Permit. Thanks
Answer summary
The user is seeking advice on how to convert their UK driving license to a Thai driving license after obtaining a 5-year DTV. Comments indicate that an agent can assist for a fee, while others mention that the user should be aware of the legalities regarding their current motorcycle use with an International Driving Permit. Required documents for the conversion include a valid passport, a UK driving license, an IDP, proof of residence, and a medical certificate. Local driving schools and the DLT (Department of Land Transport) are suggested as resources for obtaining appropriate licenses.
24 repliesnewest first
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สก็อต *********
Just get a health check local clinic 50-200 baht get photos done do the online test take your uk license with you plus your passport easy . Took 4 days for me walked out with both car and motorbike
Paul **********
IDP only covers u to ride upto 125cc
Get agent to do paperwork and book u in for Thai license
Get agent to do paperwork and book u in for Thai license
Tore *********
@Paul *********
please provide references. You need to have full motorcycle license from another country + idp (or Thai license)
Ash***
@Paul *********
rubbish. On a cat A it covers you to ride anything. If you don't have cat A you cannot have an IDP with cat A and cannot ride anything. If you have a CBT you cannot get an IDP with cat A and cannot ride anything. If you get a CBT then transport might give you a licence but you can't have an IDP with cat A.
Alan *****
I don’t think your IDP coveres you for a 160cv unless you have a big bike licence, about the car licence. You will need your IDP & drivers licence & just get it swapped over to a Thai license. Go to an agent it’s easier
BronzeWa*********
In phuket you have to make a booking now to do this as a foreigner even to renew. Right now it is all booked out till November. You can go to Honda safety school but to actually get the license I believe to do the “test” at transportation you still have to wait.
Will ************
If you don’t hold a full bike license in the UK you are driving a 160cc illegally as you are only covered up to 50cc
Scott *********
@Will ***********
if you don’t hold a full bike license you are not covered at all in Thailand. Even though you are covered up to 50cc in uk on a car license you are not legally allowed to drive any motorcycle in Thailand.
Rich *******
@Scott ********
your not covered to ride a 50cc in uk. You have to do a CBT first.Leonard ********
OP@Scott ********
if its illegal why when I get stopped by police do they never raise this issue at all?Leonard ********
OP@Scott ********
I have been stooped at least 10 timesScott *********
@Leonard *******
maybe next time you are stopped, point out to the policeman that your license is not a full motorcycle license and see what happens…PrettyLy********
Use an agent 5k for both much easier and all done in one day
Leonard ********
OPPrettyLychee9363 please can you recommend an agent?
PrettyLy********
Cragus *******
Go to a driving school and get the certificate (2 days) for the motorcycle license, then go to the DLT and get the license. While you're there hand over your UK car license and they will give you a car license, too. You will need a residency certificate. Also, the IDP is not legally valid for motorcycles unless you have a motorcycle license in the UK. Note that any insurance will be invalid for motorcycle accidents without a legal license. Better to have both Thai versions of the car and motorcycle license.
Danza *******
@Cragus ******
is that CBT or do you need the full licence? I guess it's harder to find a 50cc over there hehKlaus ********
@Cragus ******
didn't he ask for how to get a car driver license with an international driving license? To your question:
go to the transport office and get your driver license transfered to a thai license.
1. Required Documents & Photocopies
1. Passport
Original: Valid passport.
Photocopies needed:
Photo/Information page.
Current valid Visa page (Non-Immigrant visa prefered; tourist visas are rejected at many DLT offices).
Latest entry stamp / Extension stamp.
2. Driving License & IDP
Original: Your national driving license + valid International Driving Permit (IDP - 1949 or 1968 convention).
Photocopies needed:
Front and back of your national driving license.
Main cover and inside information/class pages of your IDP.
(Note: If your national license is not in English, you will need a certified Thai or English translation from your embassy or an approved translator).
3. Proof of Address in Thailand
Original (choose one):
Certificate of Residence from Thai Immigration (issued within the last 30 days).
Work Permit showing your current registered address.
Embassy Affidavit/Letter of Residence.
Photocopies needed: 1 copy (if using a Work Permit, copy the photo page and address page).
4. Medical Certificate
Original: Medical form for a driving license from any local clinic or hospital (valid for 30 days from issue, usually costs 100–300 THB).
Photocopies needed: None (they keep the original).
2. Photo & Signing Rules
Signing: Sign every single photocopy in blue ink with your official signature.
Photos: Most DLT offices now capture your photo digitally on-site for the plastic card.
Wolf****
@Klaus *******
are you trying to to say that they keep your original home license? That would suck then you would have to go get a replacement when you got back homeKlaus ********
Wolf7247 no i trying to say, that your international driving license is only valid by carrying your regular driver license aswell. 😁 you will get everything back including an additional thai driver license plastic card.
Glenn *******
Wolf7247 no you keep your uk licence
Leonard ********
OP@Cragus ******
thank you. I am currently in Patong, Phuket how would I find a driving school and DLT local to me?
Adam *****
@Leonard *******
try @Honda *****************
Phuket branch. Top notch.Leonard ********
OP@Adam ****
thanksActivity
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