Answered3 years ago
How can I obtain an International Driving License (IDL) in Pattaya if I forgot mine?
*Edited*
Does anyone know how obtain an IDL in pattaya? I am from the US looking to drive a car in Thailand, Long story short i accidentally forgot mines cause i was going to miss my flight..
Does anyone know how obtain an IDL in pattaya? I am from the US looking to drive a car in Thailand, Long story short i accidentally forgot mines cause i was going to miss my flight..
Answer summary
The post discusses a U.S. expatriate's inquiry about obtaining an International Driving License (IDL) in Pattaya, Thailand, after accidentally forgetting theirs at home. Various comments suggest that one could get a Thai driving license, apply for an IDP through the original country, or consider getting help from local agencies. It is noted that an IDP is valid for only three months and that proof of the original license is usually required. Overall, the conversation centers around the challenges faced when trying to legally drive without an IDP in Thailand.
26 repliesnewest first
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Paul *********
Can not
CjandBrigitte **********
A IDP is only valid for 3 months in Thailand. After that you have to apply for your 2 year Thai drivers license.
Stuart ***********
I have read here that at many DLT offices you don't need the IDP to apply for the Thai 2 year licence, so give it a try.
I brought an IDP so I don't have any personal experience, but as your licence is in English I can imagine the IDP not being required.
I brought an IDP so I don't have any personal experience, but as your licence is in English I can imagine the IDP not being required.
Jan ******************
@Mark ****
I did both my licenses the thai way in Isaan as I don’t have motorcycle from home and didn’t bring a IDP for car. You’ll need to do two theoretical tests each 50 questions and minimum 45 correct answer. After you’ll do a practical test in the backyard.
You’ll also need to watch a movie and do some simple test regarding sight and reaction.
You’ll need a residence certificate and a doctor statement. Copies of passport and everything and the fee for both is 700-1000 thb. You’ll get for two years first and five years next if you have a long stay visa, unless it’s two and two years.
In Pattaya it’s an option to get an agent to help you
@Nan *********
.
Mark ********
OP@Jan *****************
how much does the agency charge for thai license paperwork?Jan ******************
@Mark ****
I paid 5500 thb (including fee) for renewing both my licenses in Pattaya last year and I guess the paperwork is the same, you’ll just need to do the theoretical and practical test yourself as well. I can PM if you like.Mark ********
OP@Jan *****************
yes please send me the infoJan ******************
@Mark ****
Formally you’ll need a national drivers license for both car and motorcycle and an International Driving Permit for drive legally up to three months in Thailand. This is the formal requirement and the case with your insurance company if something happens.
Terary **********
I printed mine. Got a printer?
Christopher *************
Why didn't you get it before you left.? I believe that you have to get your IDL in the Country that gave you a permit?
Mark ********
OP@Christopher ************
Wayne Roberts long short, i made a stupid mistake of accidentally leaving mine cause i was going to miss my flight...Christopher *************
C'est la vie.
Mark ********
OP@Christopher ************
i know 🤦🏻♂️Mark ********
OP@Michael *******
@Wayne ********
@Ruud *****************
I am from the US looking to drive a car in thailandWayne *********
@Mark ****
so you need to get it before you come or online if it's possible for usaMark ********
OP@Wayne ********
long short, i made a stupid mistake of accidentally leaving mine cause i was going to miss my flight...
John **********
@Mark ****
I assume you mean an IDP? I doubt pictures will suffice and you also need to be able to show your driving licence as without that the IDP is invalid. I guess you could contact the AAA and see if they will reissue it? How long you've been in Thailand is also important as the IDP is only good for 3 months from when you enter ThailandWayne *********
@Mark ****
no idea sorry I have 5 year thai licence so never needed idp. No reason they will not accept it. But as they say this is ThailandMark ********
OP@Wayne ********
i will be driving to Jomtien & Korat also will that suffice? Or will it be different for korat since it is a different city? Im am unaware if they operate the same in KoratWayne *********
@Mark ****
yes I seen many produce on phone this week front of Police station on beach roadWayne *********
If you can apply for idp online you would need to know all your drivers license details
Mark ********
OP@Wayne ********
i do have pictures of my IDL but will that be valid if i get pulled over?Wayne *********
Michael ********
First get a two year driving license, then get a five year and can apply for interntional
Wayne *********
Thai 5 year licence you go to the dot office
Ruud ******************
If you have a valid Thai driver license it’s possible; otherwise you have to apply to the country who issued the driver license
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