ask
Search
Ask
Answered8 months ago

What are the recent changes for converting to a 5-year Thai driving license for expats?

Waqar ********
asked Feb 15, 2026
1.8k
views
10
replies
4
likes
Anyone here recently got their 5 years Thai license? Earlier it was simple to convert but am not sure of the recent changes.
Answer summary
The process for converting to a 5-year Thai driving license has become more complex recently for expats, particularly depending on the type of visa held. It seems that holders of the DTV (Digital Nomad Visa) may face more challenges, often receiving only a 2-year temporary license initially. Other respondents noted varying experiences across different locations, such as Chiang Mai and Samui, where some were denied a 5-year license based on their visa types. Common requirements for conversion include passing the DLT e-learning course, obtaining a medical certificate, and providing a certificate of residence from immigration. Expats are encouraged to consult with their local DLT for specific requirements and details.
10 repliesnewest first
11

Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.

Julian ***********
Julian ***********
Do they take away your old license or do they let you keep it?
Peter *******
Peter *******
Some places didn’t give a 5 years on DTV only 2. Because for 5 years visa they said need a non immigrant visa type
Simon *****
Simon *****
Went 2 weeks ago. Requirements were to pass DLT e learning, medical certificate of good health and certificate of residence from immigration x2 (i needed 1 TM16 for driving and 1 for motorcycle). I didnt specifically.ask but was given nearly 6 years because the expiry date was rounded up to my birrhday.
Shin ******
Shin ******
Following, I only have the temporary 2 year, things change every day in Thailand!🤷🏾‍♀️
DTVPeck********
DTVPeck********
I tried to renew recently in Chiang Mai. They would not give me a 5 year license as a DTV holder.
Jay ******
Jay ******
You get a 2 year temporary license first when you convert. You have to ask the staff at the specific DLT where you are getting the license when you can apply for the 5 year.
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
Got it last year no issues
Phil ******
Phil ******
He'd to your local DTV and ask what you need to supply for 5 years as as some do some dont.
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
I did it with a ED Visa but I’ve heard some places it seems difficult than others I’ve asked in chiang mai and the clerk told me it is no problem with DTV. A friend of mine in samui got denied with DTV visa , makes no sense but that’s my experience in Thailand for a lot of things. If you cannot go to another province I have no help for you , my friend still cannot get it
Chagal *************
Chagal *************
I just got mine converted last month.i got a 2 year Licence and after I reapply it’ll be 5 years

Activity

11 joined
Waqar ********
Waqar ********
Waqar ********
Waqar ********
Waqar ********
Waqar ********
11
people
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
...members
Member 1
Member 2
Member 3
Member 4
Member 5
Member 6
Member 7
Member 8

Related

25
How can I apply for a Thai driving license with a UK license and a 5-year DTV?
9.4k96682mo
What should I know about renewing my DTV visa at the Malaysian land border?
28654mo
What are the requirements and process for converting an IDP to a Thai driver's license in Chiang Mai without a 90-day report?
2k14275mo
Which visa is better for staying in Thailand: DTV or ED?
4.3k31439mo
What should I do for my 90-day DTV check-in in Thailand without a TM30 form?
3.9k38249mo
Is it true that having an ED visa results in DTV rejection?
1.6k10181y
How can I obtain a Residence Certificate in Bangkok with a DTV visa for my Thai driving license?
1.5k1181y
Can DTV holders in Chiang Mai renew their Thai driver's license for 5 years instead of 2?
2.2k19121y
Can I apply for a Thai driver's license while on a DTV?
2.8k17101y
What is the process for acquiring a Certificate of Residency in Thailand for DTV holders?
1.9k15111y
Can a DTV holder apply for a Thai driving license?
4.4k39311y
Can I obtain a residence certificate with a DTV visa?
2k17102y
What is the process for obtaining a Thai driving license as an expat and what paperwork is required?
8.9k72862y
Can a holder of a DTV obtain a Thai driving license?
2.3k17172y
Can I extend a temporary Thai driving license to a regular one with a DTV visa?
1.2k4162y
What are the pros and cons of choosing between the ED visa and DTV for learning Thai while working remotely in Thailand?
3.1k19182y
Is my visa plan for Thailand feasible with the current regulations?
1.7k12122y
Can a DTV visa be processed in Thailand if I am already on a valid ED visa?
2.9k16422y
Can I open a bank account in Thailand while on a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV)?
1.5k7132y
Can DTV holders obtain a 5-year Thai driving license, and are there differences based on visa types?
4.8k28552y
How do I obtain a certificate of residency and a yellow book in Thailand with different visa types?
1.6k972y
Is a notarized marriage certificate required for an ED visa in Thailand, and what documents are needed for unmarried parents?
2.8k2962y
Can I do a visa run to enter Thailand on an approved ED visa, and what should I expect at the border?
544124y
What is the process for renewing a 5-year Thai driving license online and how can I access the required video?
1.2k475y
Can I renew my 2-year Thai driving license for another 2 years while on a COVID extension?
1.7k1565y

Resources

Need help with your DTV visa?