Advertorial The expat’s guide to applying for a Thai driver’s license

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While foreigners can legally drive in Thailand using an international driver’s permit (IDP), many expats living in the country decide to apply for a Thai one as it’s valid for a longer period (usually 5 years) and can also be used as an official ID. It’s a straightforward process and one that’ll require a trip to the Department of Land Transport (DLT).

 

But, if you’ve lived in the Kingdom for some time, you’ll know that the process can be quite bureaucratic, and finding reliable information can be challenging - especially if you don’t speak Thai. So without further ado, our friends from Pacific Prime Thailand are here to shed light on the matter.

Gathering the documents you need

Before heading to your nearest DLT, you’ll need to prepare several documents. Bear in mind that some of these documents may require you to go to the Immigration Bureau, whilst others are originals or copies of documents you should already have. At the time of writing, the documents include:

●     Original passport, visa, and any employment letter you may have

●     A copy of your passport and non-immigrant visa

●     A copy of your work permit

●     A copy of your T.M 6 departure card

●     A letter of residence or address certified by the Immigration Bureau or your embassy

●     A medical certificate dated within 30 days of the application, issued by any registered clinic or hospital

●     An original driver’s license from your home country (if you already have one)

 

Note: In addition to the aforementioned list, you may also require a copy of your passport page containing your last entry stamp into Thailand.

 

As the documents are subject to change over time, it’s worth checking with the DLT before you head over in person to apply for a driver’s license. You can dial them on 0-2271-8888 (and press 0 for the operator) or contact them via their call center via 1584 (and dial 3, then 0 for the operator).

Booking an appointment at the DLT

To ensure you’re not waiting around in queues all day, it’s worth booking an appointment with the DLT in advance. You can use the DLT Smart Queue website, which will require you to register your details, and then book a time slot for your selected date. It can be quite rare to get an appointment immediately, so it’s a good idea to plan in advance.

 

If you’re in a hurry to get your Thai driver’s license, or if you’d rather not deal with Thai bureaucracy/the language barrier, you may consider using a private service to help you get a fast-track appointment. There are many paid services online, such as Thai Driver Service Point, but you’ll need to do your own due diligence on them.

Visiting the DLT for your appointment

On the day of your appointment, make sure you get there in good time. For those who don’t already have a driver’s license from their home country, you’ll need to pass all the required tests (details below), a theory, and a practical driving test. For those who do, you’ll get to skip the theory and practical driving test.

Types of tests

 

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what each of the tests entails, so that you’re fully prepared for them:

 

●     Color blindness: This test will require you to confirm the color of a light bulb or lamp that appears in front of you.

●     Peripheral: This test will require you to confirm the color of the traffic light appearing on either side of you, whilst looking straight ahead and without moving your eyes or head.

●     Reflex: Sitting behind a brake and gas pedal simulator, you’ll have to push the brake in less than one second when a signal is raised.

●     Depth perception: An apparatus with two light filaments inside - one moving and one fixed, will appear in front of you, and you must align both within a specific range.

●     Theory: You’ll need to do a multiple-choice test. An e-learning course and practice tests are available on the DLT website.

●     Practical: As the main test, you’ll be asked to drive around a small course or track outside the test center, and perform maneuvers like reversing and/or parallel parking.

Obtain your Thai driver’s license

If you’ve passed all the required tests, congratulations! You’ll now be able to obtain a Thai driver’s license. The fees you’ll have to pay will vary on whether you’re getting a 2-year temporary license (THB 300 approx) or a 5-year permanent license (THB 600 approx). Typically, you’ll get the permanent kind when you’re renewing.

 

Getting car insurance is a no-brainer if you’re going to drive, but have you considered securing comprehensive health insurance as well? You’ll get peace of mind knowing that you’ll receive the best healthcare without paying sky-high or spiraling hospital bills. Reach out to expat insurance broker Pacific Prime Thailand today!