Drivers License

[Savanna]

Can anyone tell me if this is true...

I have a SA driver's license. I was told if I go to my local AA and convert it to an international drivers license I would be able to drive in other countries.

Will the traffic authority in Thailand accept an international license or do I need to do something in Thailand once I get there to convert my license?

[lopburi3]

The IDP is a translation of your current license and allows you to drive for a limited period in most other countries. It would also negate taking full tests for a Thai license later on.

[Lite Beer]

You may have a problem with insurance companies paying out if you have an accident.

When you arrive with your Non O Visa , S.A Driving Licence and international Licence you can apply for a Thai Driving Licence.

Go to the motoring forum and have a look at the section on how to get a Thai Driving Licence. It is very easy.

[Guest]

International driving license is accepted in Thailand, but there may be a time limit. You can get a Thai licence by taking your existing licence, and passport, to your local Land Transport Department. Usually in the first application you'll need to take an eyesight test. Different offices have different requirements regarding documents you need to produce.

[Crash999]

Can anyone tell me if this is true...

I have a SA driver's license. I was told if I go to my local AA and convert it to an international drivers license I would be able to drive in other countries.

Will the traffic authority in Thailand accept an international license or do I need to do something in Thailand once I get there to convert my license?

How'sit?

No problem using an international drivers permit in Thailand- in fact when stopped by the police in many cases it can be helpful as especially with upcountry police they don't know what to do with it so if they can't get money from you they'll let you go.

[Lite Beer]

Can anyone tell me if this is true...

I have a SA driver's license. I was told if I go to my local AA and convert it to an international drivers license I would be able to drive in other countries.

Will the traffic authority in Thailand accept an international license or do I need to do something in Thailand once I get there to convert my license?

How'sit?

No problem using an international drivers permit in Thailand- in fact when stopped by the police in many cases it can be helpful as especially with upcountry police they don't know what to do with it so if they can't get money from you they'll let you go.

Until you have an accident and the insurance company will not pay out.

Get a Driving Licence. Easy.

[wca01]

Can anyone tell me if this is true...

I have a SA driver's license. I was told if I go to my local AA and convert it to an international drivers license I would be able to drive in other countries.

Will the traffic authority in Thailand accept an international license or do I need to do something in Thailand once I get there to convert my license?

How'sit?

No problem using an international drivers permit in Thailand- in fact when stopped by the police in many cases it can be helpful as especially with upcountry police they don't know what to do with it so if they can't get money from you they'll let you go.

Until you have an accident and the insurance company will not pay out.

Get a Driving Licence. Easy.

[wca01]

Until you have an accident and the insurance company will not pay out.

Get a Driving Licence. Easy.

Depends on the insurance company. I drive since 17 years with an IDL and had 2 accidents so far.

On both occasion the insurance company paid out.

WCA

[Lite Beer]

Until you have an accident and the insurance company will not pay out.

Get a Driving Licence. Easy.

Depends on the insurance company. I drive since 17 years with an IDL and had 2 accidents so far.

On both occasion the insurance company paid out.

WCA

Agreed , check the policy carefully.

Still cant understand why people do not get a Thai Driving Licence when it is so easy. It also acts as an ID Card.

[Crossy]

Agree with LiteBeer.

I've not seen a documented case of the insurance not coughing when the insured is using an IDP but there have been several anecdotal references over the years.

You will certainly have no issues if you're using a hire car from a big name company, they rent to tourists so their insurance covers everything, regular insurance on a privately owned vehicle is more restrictive.