@Marc *********

It happens but many things can go wrong. And the foriener takes most Responsability.

What if the agent paid the wrong person or makes someone angry or the person they paid is sick that day?

Or sometimes they have crackdowns as an example.

There is plenty to worry about.

@David ********

Much less. I have heard. Just a fine.

@Bobby *******

Great point about the hotel. I forgot about that.

@Eddie ******

If you buy the ticket online, you can bypass the ticket booth.

But technically you should always have it on you.

Need and what they require are 2 different things.

If you want to go and risk being turned away, then sure, try that.

@Garrett **********

That is still your passport AND in Thailand, there is the way they should do things and way they do things. That pamphlet was probably written by a different department not recognized by other departments.

You should know that.

Every expat with experience, that I have met. Will tell you always carry the original. (all Immigration Officers will not have access to a computer)

They need to verify your visa status. And they always want to know stuff that is none of their business. (like where you have been and for how long)

@Garrett **********

Yes

@Bobby *******

This is true.

I always bought a ticket online. I was never asked for ID. Paid with a credit card. Maybe that was enough.

But if you mean to cross the border, then you need a passport.

But I think you meant inside Thailand.

Its been about 1 year since I rode the train, so maybe things changed.

@Jia *********

Yes, yes, I have been arrested many times in the USA.

No felonies, but I guess quantity matters?

No worries, I am not giving a Thai Bank 800k anyway.