In America, it is called the International Drivers PERMIT. You can get it from your local AAA (American Automobile Association), for cheap. Photograph required. Valid for one full year BUT only for three months from entry into the Kingdom.

I am a widow. First time ever traveling and this was super easy. Easiest part of my move over!

Spent a year in Thailand. Never bothered with the Thai license after all, but had the IDP just in case...and took classes at Honda Motorcycle Safety for knowledge and experience.

@Ruth ******

No Thai, at least none to speak of. Suwadee kah, kohp koon kah, enough to be polite, but not a lot beyond that. That is enough to get by in CM or Bangkok, but not enough for further exploration of Thailand.

One on one is the best way to do it. One on one with my excellent teacher (she is hilarious) forces me to put the words into conversation and teaches me the tones. The language school will be a lot easier once I have moved beyond the beginner stage.

Since the plan is to eventually spend a good deal of my time in Thailand, learning the language is going to be helpful.

I don't really want to use my IRA. I would rather work online and earn the money to put into my Thai bank accounts to use for the future retirement visa. So the ED visa seems the best way to return to Thailand once the "crazy stuff" with the virus is over.

@Ruth ******

I am learning Thai online right now, one on one, with a great teacher. Just started but enjoying the hell out of it. When I come back to Chiang Mai, I will also do an ED visa even though I could technically qualify for another retirement visa. I just don't want to use my IRA as the basis for that again. So, my plan is to learn as much Thai as I can right now...and then come over and join a language school, with the ED visa.

Thailand is great. But spending 15 days out of 30 locked in a hotel room might make your stay a little "different" than if you waited until the ASQ requirement ends (whenever that might be)

Life is short. Live it as you wish. If you want sunshine, get some sunshine. Yeah, you have to relax in a hotel for two weeks. Big deal. Do it. Use the moment to catch up on reading, keep a journal, study something you enjoy. And emotional health is essential to life!

Of course. I opened up two of them. One with Bangkok Bank and other with Kasikorn.

Yeah, doesn't it take TWO shots, at least two weeks apart?

Then you have to wait about a month for full effect?

I moved there as an early "retiree" for one year to Chiang Mai. Best year of my life! I wasn't working, but could have chosen to work as an English teacher. Instead, just enjoyed the moment, spending time with photography, theater, and art. I had zero issues whilst living there. Come with an open mind and do your research first. Good luck!

Same...Arizona.