@Willem ***

That's not accurate as far as I know. The validity depends on the country that issued the IDP. Mine was 3 years. Thailand says that for long-term stay, you need to change it to a Thai license. With a non-O you're certainly in that category as it is a long-stay visa. A DTV is in the category of tourist visa, not sure how this will be handled.

@Jam ********

check with the Thai embassy in your country or online here:

@Willem ***

yes it might have some limitations. But then again if you're here 6 month at a time, do you really need a driver's license for example? Just get an international driver's permit in your home country. Bank account is probably the trickiest one, you might need an agent.

Check out the DTV visa. Multiple entry visa for 5 years. It gives you 180 days on each entry.

@Gert ******

right

@Gert ******

see John's reply

@John ******

to make sure the hotel filed the tm.30. some hotels or especially Airbnb's don't, even if they are obligated to do so. If there is no valid address registration (tm.30) for you, you won't get anything done at immigration.

You need to do the 90 days reports. The hotel is responsible to file a tm.30 within 24 hrs after check-in. Most hotels do that online. Just make shure the hotel makes a tm.30 and ask for a copy/screen shot before you go for the 90 days report.

The DTV visa would probably be more suitable for you than the retirement visa.

@Olivia *******

you can get a retirement visa from the embassy in your home country or alternatively you can get one at the immigration office when you're in Thailand.