Thailand Unveils Digital Global Driving Licence via Mobile App

[snoop1130]

Photo: The Thaiger

 

In a major move towards tech-driven public services, Thailand's Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Krungthai Bank have launched a new service allowing Thai citizens to apply for international driving licences digitally through the Paotang app. This initiative aims to provide citizens with unprecedented convenience and accessibility by enabling applications 24/7, regardless of location.

 

Spearheaded by Deputy Minister of Transport Suparpong Piyachote, DLT Director General Jirut Wisanjit, and Krungthai Bank's Head of Product & Business Solutions, Thawatchai Chiwananth, this collaboration marks a pivotal shift in public service delivery. The initiative aligns with the Thai government’s broader goal to integrate digital solutions into everyday administrative processes, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and quality of life.

 

Beginning today, the system simplifies obtaining an international driving licence by offering a seamless application process via the app. Applicants can complete all necessary steps—application submission, identity verification, payment, and licence issuance—without needing to visit a government office. The service caters to those driving in countries under the Geneva and Vienna Conventions.

 

 

The significant demand for international licences, exceeding 160,000 in fiscal year 2024, highlights the need for such a service among Thais travelling abroad. The digital service incorporates data integration from various agencies and includes a postal delivery option, reducing the associated costs and effort traditionally required.

 

Beyond this initiative, Krungthai Bank aims to broaden its offerings, including processing vehicle tax payments, managing traffic fines, and providing digital medical certificates for domestic licence renewals. These expansions are set to reinforce accessible, efficient service delivery, showcasing a commitment to digital innovation and public convenience. The project promises a streamlined future for countless citizens navigating international and domestic driving requirements.

 

-- 2024-12-18

 

 

[OneMoreFarang]

11 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Thailand's Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Krungthai Bank

Why is a bank involved in this?

Will they get all the data to misuse it? 

[msbkk]

8 minutes ago, OneMoreFarang said:

Why is a bank involved in this?

Will they get all the data to misuse it? 

Maybe the bank facilitates the payment system. Krung Thai Bank plays also a role in paying traffic fines.

[SAFETY FIRST]

11 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

 a new service allowing Thai citizens to apply for international driving licences digitally through the Paotang app.

I assume a typo, it would be an international driving permit 

 

Are non Thai's eligible? 

 

[Guderian]

Many years ago, you could apply for an IDP in the UK online, I think it was handled by the AA. The last time I got one, though, back in 2019, the online process had been abandoned and you had no choice but to go to one of the few main post offices issuing them. I hope the Thais can make a success of this, it will show yet again how far Britain is lagging in digital delivery of services.

[Scouse123]

They can't even get the upload correct to your phone for the Thai driving licence.

 

Full of glitches.

[BigStar]

15 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

They can't even get the upload correct to your phone for the Thai driving licence.

 

Full of glitches.

 

The Paotang app?

 

 

[KannikaP]

Is an International Driving Permit not simply a translation of a foreign licence into English. Thai is in Thai AND English so is it really needed. Same as using a UK one here, for only 90 days however.

[Rampant Rabbit]

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

In a major move towards

being able to see everything you do 24/7

[lordgrinz]

It's not a "license", it's a permit, and it must accompany your home country's drivers license when showing it abroad. 

[soi3eddie]

Anyone coming from the UK and intending on driving a car or riding a motorcycle in Thailand should obtain an International Driving Permit in advance (unless having a Thai licence). You should also carry your UK driving licence. Thai police enjoy stopping foreigners in tourist hotspots such as Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang Mai (I've seen and experienced this). An IDP is only £5.50 and easy to obtain in the UK.   https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/get-an-idp

[Surasak]

7 hours ago, SAFETY FIRST said:

I assume a typo, it would be an international driving permit 

 

Are non Thai's eligible? 

 

"Are non Thai's eligible?"  No reason not to be. I applied for and obtained an IDP almost six years ago, when I was intent on a visit to the UK on a Thai Driving License. On hiring a car I was not asked for the IDP, but I had it just in case.