If you are going to be longstay.

Obtain a IDP in your home country and then bring that to convert to a thai licence. If you want motorbike and car it is 2 licences.

Currently there is a 2mth+ backlog in Phuket for tests and licence.

The process is fairly simple, need a thai medical about 150b at any clinic, take seconds they do nothing really.

Residency cert from immigration.

Lots of copies of passport etc.

You must have all docs prepared when you go to get appointment for the tests.

@Barrie ************

we are in Phuket and did not require it notarized for our extension.

@Neil *********

it is a SCAM.

@Ken *****

the Visa is a 90 day non O based on retirement.

Then you apply for yearly extensions of that visa.

@Brook *******

listen to the admins here, they really know.

And no insurance except for Thai pass requirements.

@Sarah *********

all credit to

@Tod ********

this is the info he gave us months ago.

AND exactly what we did with relative ease.

We are now happily into our 1st year extension.

The "trailing" spouse cannot get the visa in country.

The best route is to apply for the 90 day non-o visa before you come.

One based on retirement and the other based on being married to.

Once in country you can apply for the extension for both

Copy of Marriage certificate needed

Proof of 800k seasoned 2 mths

Bank letter and statement the day of application

Tm30

Then the usual copies and copies of everything

Yes it is all electronic now.

Other off topic question why OA, NON-O is simpler, less requirements?

Yes internet/data is quite good here.

You may also need to setup a VPN to access some things at home but if only a month probably not an issue.

@Tod ********

that is true Phuket is 45 days