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What is the process for obtaining a 5-year driving license in Thailand as a foreigner with a tourist visa?

Thai Driver's License 5-Year Driver's License Tourist Visa Non-O Visa Ko Samui Krabi Phuket Immigration Regulations

Nov 17, 2025

5 months ago

Peter ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello everyone:) 

So I have a tourist stamp/visa etc. Previously I made here my temporary DL, now i am back and i try to exchange/extend it to the 5y. I know some places are not giving the 5y, some other they do. I collected all the docus(health and immigration certificate). I would like to know if any of you know the current situation in Ko Samui,Krabi,Phuket. I tried in Surat Thani Town, but they bounced me back with the 2 years etcetc. Thank you

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A user is seeking information on extending a temporary driver's license to a 5-year license while on a tourist visa in Thailand. They have collected necessary documents but received mixed responses from different locations. Comments indicate that a Non-Immigrant visa is typically required for a 5-year license, and recent changes may limit renewals for older individuals to only 1-year terms. Some users have successfully obtained the 5-year license in Koh Samui, while others stress that it is generally not possible for tourists.

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Brandon ************

No DLT will give you a 5-year license if you're in Thailand as a tourist.

5 months ago

Graham ******

Mine is due in January and as I will be renewing on a Non-O visa not a 12 month extension I am expecting to get another 2 year provisional licence (Sa Kaeo province)

5 months ago

Todd *********

I received the 5 year (works out to 6 actually if you go in the month following your bday)) on Koh Samui late last year.

5 months ago

Robert ********

I thought I saw that new rules came out for people over a certain age. No more 5 year. Only 1 year renewal.

5 months ago

Pete *******

The DLT regulations require a non immigrant visa for the 5 year license.

5 months ago

Reply to

Pete *******