What should I do if my passport is damaged and I need to travel domestically in Thailand?

Question

I think I have a problem. My passport got damaged by water and I now have to go to my 
embassy in Bangkok to get a new one. Entry stamp and extension of stay can't be read. So what shall I do? I have a Thai drivers license which may let my fly domestically (?) Is this ok? Can I use that? During covid I had to take a taxi from Udon Thani to Bangkok when I returned to my home country (no flights at the moment) - wouldn't want that again. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user has a damaged passport due to water and needs to obtain a new one from their embassy in Bangkok. They are concerned about traveling domestically and whether their Thai driver's license can be used in lieu of a passport. Responses indicate that traveling domestically with a Thai driver's license is generally acceptable and suggest taking the damaged passport along. However, it is essential to check with the embassy regarding the process for a replacement passport, especially if it may be categorized as an emergency passport with limitations. Users also mention the importance of visa status and possible fees for overstays.

Pete ********** · Answer

Accidentally put it in a washing machine is the usual excuse.

Elton ****** · Answer

They will have computer record if they want to verify info.

Pete ********** · Answer

You will be pleased to hear immigration will.have a copy of all the passport details - so you will still have to pay the overstay fine

Jean ************ · Answer

You can take a flight with your passport and an other document. You can also take a bus or a train.

Ian ********* · Answer

Do you have a photo of passport on the phone? I lost mine a few years ago and it took me 3 days between embassy and Thai immigration. I got an emergency passport to fly home.

Julie ******************** · Answer

[mention redacted] may be able to help you, he provides a passport renewal service.

Phil ******* · Answer

They don't look at entry stamp or extension when you fly domestic.

Robert *********** · Answer

I would check first. Depending on your nationality, the usual process maybe going through the agency they use. Also, typically it’s consular, not embassy, but I am sure varies with Country.

An emergency passport is typically only issued when you have some vital reason to travel (you were on holiday and you lost your passport, maybe family emergency) and anyway, they come with many limitations. The biggest consideration is your visa and reentry (I am assuming you are a long term resident and want to return based on a visa of some kind).

Alasdair ****** · Answer

Fly on license, take damaged passport with you.  For most nationalities a replacement passport is cheaper than a new one.

I had same issue a few years

Dick ******** · Answer

I always fly domestically with my Thai license.  Not a problem

Graeme ******* · Answer

Fly with Thai driving license then get a new passport  which I guess will be classed as an emergency , then front at immigration. Although did read if issued as an emergency passport only good for a year. But could depend on home country. For me it would only be emergency  as normal passport only issued from NZ.

What should I do if my passport is damaged and I need to travel domestically in Thailand?

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