Thailand Driver License

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There have been many reports recently of traffic police in Chiang Mai targeting foreign motorists for not having a Thai driver’s license. In the past, the traffic cops would usually only stop motorbike riders not wearing helmets in order to line their pockets with cash “fines” paid on the spot. Obtaining a Thai Drivers License. A Thai driving license for most foreigners is given in two separate licenses. One is to drive a motor vehicle and the second is to drive a motorcycle. They are both separate driving licenses and my advice is if you are going for a license to drive a motor vehicle then get the motorcycle license whilst you are there. An international driving license is accepted as long as it is valid, but a foreign license is not accepted in Thailand. If you are a resident and eligible, you should obtain a Thai Driver’s License. To apply for the international license, please bring. The best thai driver’s license service in bangkok If you plan on staying in Thailand and want to drive legally and safely, you need to get a Thai driver’s license. Fatboy’s Thai Drivers License Service has been helping foreigners obtain Thai car and motorbike licenses since 2014.

Like many other countries, a driver's licence is required before someone can drive on any road in Thailand. A Thai driver's licence is issued by the Department of Land Transport, Ministry of Transport and can be used throughout the Kingdom of Thailand and other ASEAN states without an International Driving Permit.[1][2] The minimum age to drive a motor vehicle is 18, and to drive a motorcycle is 15.

Type of driver's licence[edit]

Below are the driver's license categories in Thailand:[3]

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Type of License under Motor Vehicle Act 1979Vehicle Permitted to Drive
Type A — Temporary Driving License- Private Passenger Car (Sedan)

- Microbus and Passenger Pick-up
- Van and Pick-up

Type B — Computerized Lifetime Driving License; – Lifetime Driving License; – Computerized Five-year Driving License- Private Passenger Car (Sedan)

- Microbus and Passenger Pick-up
- Van and Pick-up

Type C — Taxi Driving License- Private Passenger Car (Sedan)

- Microbus and Passenger Pick-up
- Van and Pick-up

Type D — Public Motor tricycle driving licensePublic Motor tricycle
Type E — Temporary Motorcycle driving licenseMotorcycle
Type F — Lifetime Motorcycle driving license; – Five-year Motorcycle driving licenseMotorcycle
Type G - Public Motorcycle driving licensePublic Motorcycle
Type H - Road Roller driving licenseRoad Roller
Type I - Tractor driving licenseTractor

Note: Lifetime driving licences are no longer issued. Existing lifetime driving licence holders may continue to use them. Replacements to lifetime driving licence are also valid for lifetime.

Type of License under Land Transport Act 1979Vehicle Permitted to Drive
Class 1Van
Class 2Commercial Trucks and Bus (Up to 3,500 kg. and up to 20 passengers on bus)
Class 3Trailer
Class 4Hazardous material vehicle

Note: A licence of any of these classes can also be used to operate a licence of lower class number. For example, a Class 3 licence holder may also drive a van.

Applying for a driver's licence[edit]

Unlike most countries, there is no provisional or learner's licence in Thailand. Drivers who wish to obtain a driver's licence have to either learn through driving school or are at their own risk for not having a driving licence.

The training and testing process usually takes two full days. Candidates make an appointment for visual and response performance tests and a four-hour legal, road code and defensive driving sessions at their local Department of Land Transport office. After this, candidates must sit for a written examination. Upon successful completion, candidates may make an appointment for practical examination.

There are generally three stages of the practical examination: driving straight forward and backward, and two different types of parking.

Upon successful completion of the examination process, candidates will be given documents and redirected to the office where a photo is taken and a temporary licence is issued. If the candidate fails to pass any part of the examination, candidate will be given a notice to redo the failed parts of the examination.

See also[edit]


Thai driver's license service

Thailand Driving License Application Form

References[edit]

Thailand Driver License Online

  1. ^[1]
  2. ^http://asean.org/?static_post=agreement-on-the-recognition-of-domestic-driving-licences-issued-by-asean-countries-kuala-lumpur-9-july-1985
  3. ^'Driving license categories in Thailand'(PDF). aseancob.org. 1 Oct 2018.
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Driving_licence_in_Thailand&oldid=916913403'

A very common question asked on the Thai forums is:

'What do I need to hire and drive a car or ride a motorcycle in Thailand?'

The advice in this article is given in good faith by TripAdvisor Members to visitors to Thailand unfamiliar with how to hire and ride a motor vehicle or motorcycle both legally and safely and ensuring that they do not compromise any insurance arrangements either with the hire company or their travel insurance company. Reference is frequently made to the requirement for hirers to possess an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in the hirer's own country before they enter Thailand and enter into a hire agreement. In some Members' minds there is ambiguity about the interpretation of whether an IDP is an Internationally recognised legal requirement or merely is advisory. The balance of opinion currently (June 2013) and advice consistently given to visitors has been that an IDP is a legal requirement. In the light of different interpretations by unqualified TripAdvisor Members, either for or against the need for an IDP, it is recommended that Members reading this article do so in conjunction with advice from their own country's Royal Thai Consulates or Embassies or Motoring Associations or other accredited and authoritive sources.

This link clearly demonstrates the differences of opinion and conflicting views about the need for an International Driving Permit and sets out the governing legislation. An important distinction is drawn between visitors' home country Driving Licences that contain or do not contain a photograph of the driver. Readers' attention is drawn in particular to reply #19 added in June 2014. Obtaining an IDP removes any doubt.

A comprehensive explanation of Driving Licence requirements from the Royal Thai Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand, can be read in reply #17 in this topic dated December 2015,

If you are involved in an accident, with property damage or personal injury to any party, be aware that if the Thai Police and/or Insurance Company discover that licencing and permit documents are not in order, you may feel the full force of the law, and may have any insurance cover invalidated. Steam crack 3.3 download for computer. You may also be required by the Thai authorities, to post a LARGE cash bail amount to cover any liability you may incur.

This has no simple answers, but these general factors need to be understood:

  • Thai Traffic and Motor Vehicle Law
  • Rental Agreements
  • Travel insurance

CARS The hire company could ask for an IDP or you may just be asked for a Driving Licence. Remember it is the hirer's responsibility to ensure compliance with the legal driving licence requirements not the hire company. When you hire a car usually you will be invited to accompany the hire company representative to inspect the car and agree any existing damage to the vehicle which is marked on a diagram on the rental agreement. You may find it useful to take photos as well to avoid any disagreement when you return the vehicle. Payment is usually by credit card but cash may be accepted. Payment by credit card can prove useful in case a dispute arises over the provision of the hire service.

MOTORCYCLES - SCOOTERS - MOPEDS

The only documents a motorcycle rental company will uniformly insist on is CASH MONEY.

They will have little, or no interest in licences, international driving permits, or your current level of intoxication.

LICENCES and PERMITS

To ride a motorcycle in Thailand, and remain strictly within the law, you must possess and produce:

  • A national motorcycle drivers licence issued in your home country, valid for a motorcycle AND,
  • An International Driving Permit. *NB - Some members believe your home licence in English with a photo satisfies Thai law. In the end it is 'up to you'.
  • The maximum period that you can drive a hire car or bike legally on an IDP is 60 days on a Tourist Visa, 90 days on a Non-Immigrant O visa. For rentals in excess of that a Thai Driver's Licence is required. To obtain a Thai drivers license requires a formal in-person application, as well as hold and be admitted to Thailand on a non-immigrant visa status. This link to the the Department of Land Transportation website explains the procedure.

GENERAL INFORMATION and ADVICE

Motorcycles can be a fun way to move around the Kingdom independently, but remember road accidents are common.

The rate of accidents and fatalities on Thai roads is HORRENDOUS, in fact 40 people a day DIE in Thailand from motorcycle accidents alone. Many more visitors and locals are permanently disfigured or disabled, so it is not recommended for the novice.

  • You must carry your National Licence, in case of an accident, or interaction with the Thai Police.
  • You can not drive intoxicated by drugs or alcohol.
  • Helmets are mandatory. You must wear one, and so must a pillion passenger.
  • Helmets are usually provided as part of the rental, if so, make sure it fits properly or ask for another.
  • Failure to wear a helmet will bring you to the attention of Police - you will be fined at best.
  • Wear protective footwear and clothing to give you some protection should the worst happen.
  • The motorcycle MUST have a tax sticker, registration plates, vehicle registration book, and third party insurance.
  • Motorcycle hire services are available almost everywhere, with rates starting at about 150฿ per day.
  • A cash security deposit of around 1000฿ (ensure you get a receipt) is often required.
  • Only use reputable hire companies, and check that they are licenced to hire bikes to tourists.
  • Before accepting your rental, do an extensive walk-around visual inspection of the vehicle.
  • Note ALL defects or pre-existing damage with the vendor, BEFORE you accept the contract, and leave the premises.
  • Take photos from all angles of the rental before you leave, to protect yourself should there be any dispute about damage later on.
  • It is NOT ADVISABLE to surrender your PASSPORT to the rental agency as rental return security.
  • Have a passport photocopy on hand instead, to satisfy the hire company.
  • If a hire company insists on having your original passport, hire from someone else.
  • Obey all Thai traffic rules and signs, remain vigilant and always drive defensively.
  • Driving at night is considered to be particularly dangerous.
  • Motorcycles in Thailand are routinely operated by children as young as 12, so you must remain vigilant and always drive defensively.
  • If you don't ride a motorcycle in your own country, Thailand is NOT the place to learn.
  • Vendors will happily hire you a motorcycle whether you have the appropriate permit and licence or not.
  • Rarely will the bike you have hired be covered for damage, you are usually liable for all damage and more than likely to other vehicles involved, although some personal injury insurance to the other party is mandatory in the annual tax paid by the hire company for each bike. It is worth repeating that if you are involved in an accident, with property damage or personal injury to any party, be aware that if the Thai Police and/or Insurance Company discover that licencing and permit documents are not in order, you may feel the full force of the law, and may have any insurance cover invalidated (if there is any). You may also be required by the Thai authorities, to post a LARGE cash bail amount to cover any liability you may incur. If the other party was at fault but does not have insurance, you are still liable for the repair costs to the hired machine.

Thailand Driving License Requirements

QUAD-BIKES

If you hire a quad-bike, check first that your travel insurance allows its use.

Only hire from a reputable company. Be aware, it is against the law to register and/or ride these on the roads, consequently, there will never be any licence plates etc. Most reputable hire companies have a local arrangement with the Police, make sure you comply with any instructions given by your hire company, e.g. wearing helmets, staying in a certain area and on certain roads etc. You are unlikely to be allowed on a public road on your own.

LARGER MOTORCYCLES

Many standard travel insurance policy providers restrict the size of motorcycles which can be hired or ridden to less than 200cc.

Check your own policy closely before hiring LARGE motorcycles which exceed 200cc.

POLICE

If you are stopped by the Thai Police for any reason, stay calm, and be respectful.

If you have been obeying the road rules, are not intoxicated, and hold the proper documentation, you will have NO problem and will be sent on your way.

INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT

According to the UN Traffic Act of 1949 and the Thai Traffic Act of 1979, an IDP is not required if you are a tourist/visitor in Thailand as long as your license is in English, has a photo, and your country is a contracting state of the 1949 treaty, which most are. (See motoring law below) If you are a resident, however, you require a Thai drivers license. As a tourist, rental car companies, insurance companies and police will all accept your home license. Still, it not a bad idea to obtain a legitimately issued INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT (IDP) before you leave your home country.

International Driving Permit's are easily obtained from your local Automobile Association (RAC, RACQ, NRMA, AAA etc) for a nominal fee .

This permit acts as a transcription of your national drivers licence credentials. It has your current photo affixed, and should be carried together with your national drivers licence.

*INTERNATIONAL LICENCES SOLD OVER THE INTERNET ARE A SCAM!

BE AWARE- All 'International Driving Licences' offered by on-line vendors are a SCAM.

Remember - it is a 'permit', it is not ever referred to as a 'licence'.

These scam licences take the form of a credit card in shape and design, they are worthless.

Less frequently a scam 'licence' may take the same shape and form of the genuine grey cardboard International Driving Permit. The difference is that the SCAM licence may say 'valid for 5 years'. Whereas a genuine International Driving Permit is only ever valid for 12 months.

Only purchase the genuine International Driving Permit from your local Automobile Club.

Australia:Can be purchased through your state RAC or NRMA. Cost from AU$30 - $40

Great Britain:Can be purchased through the AA or RAC. or at principal Post Offices. Cost £5.50 plus processing fee - AALink - RAC Link

United States:Can be purchased through your local AAA or AATA. Cost US$15 - Info Link AAA - Info Link AATA

MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY ACT (Thai Law)

Section 42

  • Anyone who wishes to drive a motor vehicle on public roads must possess an appropriate driver licence.
  • The driver must carry the driver licence and a photocopy of the registration book and show them to competent officers upon request.
  • This does not apply to those who are learning to drive a motor vehicle according to the provision of Section 57.
  • If the driver is an alien who doesn't have an immigrant visa, he may drive a motor vehicle with a driver licence specified in the Section 42-2.
  • In such a case, he must carry documents specified by the treaty between the Thai government and the government which issued such driver licence, and show them to competent officers upon request.

Section 42-2

  • In case there is a treaty between the Thai government and a foreign government regarding mutual acceptance of driver licence, an alien who does not have an immigrant visa may drive a motor vehicle with a driver licence issued by such a foreign government, or an automobile association authorised by such a foreign government.

Once you obtain a non-immigrant visa or establish you are a resident (such as enrolling kids in school, buy a car etc,) and are no longer a toursit, you need a Thai drivers licence as your national license and international driving permit is only legally accepted if you are a tourist. Several insurance companies have fine print stating that the driver should hold a valid Thai driving licence to be fully covered after a certain amount of time in Thailand.

OBTAINING A THAI DRIVERS LICENSE

Once you become a resident it is possible to use your home license to obtain a Thai drivers license. In doing so, you are able to skip the written and practical portion of the testing process. If the class of vehicle you are licensed to drive isn't shown in pictures on the license, such as on a UK and EU license, you may need to submit an IDP or a copy of the webpage from your home DMV which describes the class(es) you are authorized for along with your home license. Check with your local land transport department for required documents.

TRAVEL and RENTAL INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Check the fine print of your travel insurance and of your rental insurance to see what (if any) conditions they place on car and motorcycle rental.

Your insurance may be declared null and void if you:

  • Ride a motorcycle without a licence that is valid.
  • Drive a car without a licence that is valid.
  • Are a passenger in (or on) a vehicle that is being driven by an unlicenced person.
  • Are under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.
  • Operate a rental vehicle in violation of the rental agreement.
  • In any circumstance, admit that you are at fault, or offer to pay any money.

.