Always carry cash. Some people don’t and when the time comes , they’ll wish they had. Thailand is just one destination . There a whole wide world out there. Open up your eyes . Better still , open up
your mind and close your mouth. You might learn something but it’s unlikely you could do either.
Thank you for the information. It’s been a bit of a headache this trip. I usually come for six months every year to escape the cold winters back home. Never had a problem before but now all of a sudden , everything’s changed.
I’m going to get a METV or a DTV next year per the suggestion of the immigration officer at BKK.
I’m currently in Chiang Mai and it’s a lot easier here , to obtain a Thai driver’s license.
Google excerpt:
A
foreigner can get a Thai driver's license in Chiang Mai without excessive hassle, especially by converting a foreign license, which avoids the need for a driving test. The process involves gathering documents, visiting the Department of Land Transport (DLT) office, passing simple vision and reaction tests, and watching an informational video.
What you will need
Valid Passport: Your passport is the primary form of ID.
Valid Visa: You need a visa that allows you to stay in Thailand, though the specific type may not always be a barrier.
Proof of Address: A Certificate of Residency from your local immigration office is generally required.
Health Certificate: A medical certificate from a local clinic or hospital, typically valid for one month.
Foreign Driver's License (if applicable): If you have a foreign license, bring it to simplify the process and skip the driving test.
The process
Gather your documents: Collect all the required documents from the list above.
Visit the Department of Land Transport (DLT): Go to your local DLT office. An online appointment via the DLT Smart Queue app may help reduce wait times, but walk-ins are often possible.
Complete the application: Fill out the application form.
Take the tests: You will need to pass a vision test (including color blindness) and a simple reaction test using a pedal simulator.
Watch the informational video: There is a mandatory video that takes about an hour and includes short quizzes.
Get your license: Once you have passed the tests and completed the video, you will be issued a temporary license. Your photo will be taken and the license printed on the spot.