The steps for obtaining a temporary driver's license for foreign tourists

The steps for obtaining a temporary driver's license for foreign tourists 

     Traveling abroad by road is a form of tourism that many people enjoy or want to try in order to experience a new adventure. It provides more convenience and independence, since it does not require taking public transportation with others.

Those foreign tourists who come to Thailand and wish to drive must have a driver's license that is valid for use in Thailand. The following foreign driver's licenses are acceptable in Thailand:

1. An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic;
2. A driver's license issued by another ASEAN member country.

In case the person’s license cannot be used in Thailand, a temporary driving license must be obtained from the Provincial Land Transport Office in the province where the traveller has entered. To apply for a temporary driving license (valid for 30 days), the following documents must be prepared:

1. A passport with a remaining validity of no less than 6 months;
2. A certificate of address from the tour operator; 
3. A medical certificate: The driver must have a medical certificate indicating that he or she has no chronic illnesses that could be considered dangerous while driving and is not mentally unstable. (The certificate must be issued by a licensed physician with a validity not to exceed one month from the date of application.);
4. A driver's license of the same type as the one being applied for that has been issued by a foreign government and is still valid, along with a Thai translation, provided by an authorized agency.

The steps for requesting a temporary driver's license are as follows:

1. Take a physical fitness test;
2. Attend a one-hour training session;
3. Pay the fees and receive the temporary driver's license:
4. The fee for the license is 205 baht;
5. The fee for taking the photo and printing the plastic license is 100 baht.

Source: Department of Land Transport, 1032 Phaholyothin Road, Chomphon Sub-district, Chatuchak District, Bangkok 10900,
Tel. +66 2271 8888.

For more information