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Is a Vietnamese motorbike driver's license valid in Thailand due to ASEAN agreements?

Jun 2, 2022
4 years ago
Aaron ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hey, I was living in Vietnam and I got a vietnamese motorbike drivers license.

Does anyone know if it’s valid in Thailand (due to ASEAN agreements)?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A Vietnamese motorbike driver's license may not be valid in Thailand despite ASEAN agreements. While theoretically it should be accepted, in practice, Thai authorities primarily recognize driver’s licenses from Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos. Users report that carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often necessary, and some have faced legal issues for driving with a Vietnamese license alone. It's advisable to consult the Thai Land Transportation office with your Vietnamese license for confirmation.
Paulie *********
Isn’t a Vietnam licence only valid for the same period as the visa?
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Aaron ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Paulie ********
I have a lifetime vietnamese DL, not linked to my visa.
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Aaron ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Funny they don’t trust the vietnamese DL, but they trust the International DL, which is based on the same Vietnamese DL 😂
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Aaron ************
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Aaron ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
For you information, I have been arrested by the police and the Vietnamese drivers license isn't accepted. You need to show the international one. Make sure you have it if you drive in Thailand.
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Paul *******
In theory yes in practice no. Only Malaysian, Singaporean and Laotian driver licenses are definitely recognized by Thai authorities both in theory and practice. The others usually need to be accompanied by an international driving permit or a Thai DL.
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Jarika ***********************
I have learnt that the officer at the counter for foreigner, Building no.4 at the Land transportation office close to BTS Mochit is the right person to you the correct answer. You can contact them on working them during 8:00-12:00, 13:00 - 15:00. Bring your Vietnam driving license otherwise they can't check it for you
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Jarika ***********************
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