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What are the requirements for converting a European driving license to a Thai one without translation?
Driving LicenseThailandVisa and ImmigrationIDP (International Driving Permit)Translation RequirementsEmbassy Services
Aug 5, 2025
9 months ago
Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTERHello, I decided to get a driver's license so that they can recognize my European license, but they are making me translate the legend into English. Has anyone had a similar problem and is there an office in Bangkok that I can go to without a translation? I was at Mo Chit's office.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is facing an issue while attempting to convert their European driving license in Thailand, specifically at the Mo Chit office, where they are required to translate their license into English. Commenters have shared that a translation is necessary and it must be legalized by the respective embassy. Alternative options like obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) were mentioned, but users clarified that not all offices recognize the IDP without a translation. Suggestions for finding a translator and navigating the bureaucratic process in Bangkok were also discussed.
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Mma *******
Its all endless hoop jumping. Best to wear a helmet and get know where and when your local Police controls happen, so u can avoid them. And you can figure out the last piece in the puzzle.
Max *************
@Mma ******
It's actually quite straight forward if you have an IDP. No hoops whatsoever.Mma *******
@Max ************
Excellent to hear ur having no troublesMax *************
@Mma ******
The keyword is a "genuine" IDP, meaning not something you found online. With that, no problems whatsoever.Reply to
Max *************
Reply
John **********
This exactly what an IDP is for, as long as you have a legitimate one authorised by the approved supplier in your home country such as the UAB. The ones you buy online are a scam.
Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTERI have international but they say that do not need. May be better to going to other office. We do not have Bulgarian embassy in BKk.
Wiwa **********
*****************************************
Can help you 😊
Donald **********
@Petrov *******
- That also translates from Russian to English without any issue, so maybe a Russian translator would be OK?John **********
@Petrov *******
that's blank so not sure why you've posted itReply to
John **********
Reply
Jeremy ********
You’ll have to find a Bulgarian translator in bkk
Best to ask your embassy or the country you hate the most embassy (Macedonia shhh we will keep this quiet) who they use since Bulgarian is a unique language
Good luck
Best to ask your embassy or the country you hate the most embassy (Macedonia shhh we will keep this quiet) who they use since Bulgarian is a unique language
Good luck
Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jeremy *******
I love Macedonia do not hate. Language is similar but they will official speak Macedonian.Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTERNobody hate Macedonia. Many people have relatives i have many friends and been there many times. This is the most close country to Bulgaria. Same culture, food language. Also very nice Country. Now political and historical problems only not so big. They have same problems with Grece also
Jeremy ********
@Petrov *******
I worked in Bulgaria for 2 years I heard the full story countless times 🤣🤣Usually over Rakia
Reply to
Jeremy ********
Reply
Peter *******
If you don't have a translation most office's require a International Drivers Permit.
Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Peter ******
i have internationalPeter *******
@Petrov *******
If have IDP just present to License OfficeReply to
Peter *******
Reply
Petrov ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Peter ******
which OfficeReply to
Petrov ********
Reply
Pete *******
Yes you must get your non-English home country driving licence translated and the translation legalised by your Embassy. There are agents who can assist you for a fee.
Reply to
Pete *******
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