Thai driving license from scratch

[MCP2002]

Is it possible to get some form of Thai driver license on a

non imm visa if you have no international or foreign driver license?

I.e. like a UK provisional.

[george]

Yes.

For those without an International Driving License, a local Thai license can be obtained against the Driving License of their respective country at the Land Transportation Department.  

The following are required to make the application :

- Passport with valid Non-immigrant Visa. (Individuals with a Tourist Visa don't qualify)

- Present residence address certified by embassy or Immigration Bureau

- Medical certificate stating good health

- 2 photographs Driving License of the respective country

Application in person.

Fee : 105 baht for cars and 55 baht for motorcycle. Applications for driving licenses for other forms of vehicle may not be granted.

Procedures

1. Fill in the application form (issued in Thai language only) and attach the required documentary evidence as indicated above.

2. Join a class for instruction on the laws related to driving and how to drive safely in Thailand. The class is for two hours (two classes are held daily, Monday to Friday, at 09:00 and 13:30) at the Department of Land Transport in Bangkok or at the provincial Transport Office. Foreigners unable to speak Thai should arrange for a Thai friend to accompany them to provide interpretation. Outside Bangkok, details of classes should be requested from the Transport Office of the province where the applicant is residing.

3. Take a test for colour blindness.

4. Take a written test (in Thai language only) on the rules of driving (see Note 1 below).

5. Take the driving test (not needed if you have a foreign license).

6. Pay the licence fee and wait for the licence.

You must be 18 years old to drive car in Thailand.

There is separate diving licences for car and motorbike.

The licence is valid for 1 year. Thais and foreignees holding of Thai residency permits are allowed long-term licences for life after three years with yearly license.

The lifelong licenses will not be issued after May, 2003.  

Info from: Thaivisa website - Driving license

[MCP2002]

Yes I had seen this George but it still seems to require an original foreign country licence!

For those without an International Driving License, a local Thai license can be obtained against the Driving License of their respective country at the Land Transportation Department.

[george]

Sorry, was reading to quick.

Just do the driving test and the written test and you have your Thai driver's license....

[ajahnlau]

The written tests are also available in Eng. There are offices in all the provinces. You may also get a letter from the head of the ampur verifying your residence instead of your embassy and alot cheaper. :cool:

[MCP2002]

Excuse my ignorance but what is head of Ampur?

[ajahnlau]

amphur refers to district. Go to the amp. offices and they will direct you

[jayenram]

A letter from your local Puyai Bhan is an acceptable substitute as conformation of residency.

BTW george, I like the one about ".....how to drive safely in Thailand"  

[fred110]

Does anyone know the address or phone number of the Land Trans. Dept in Pattaya? Thanks.

[djinn]

HI fred110,

I don't have the adress but I can explain how to go there.

-take Sukhumvit direction BKK

-Follow direction Rayong (turn right under the bridge after all the car dealers at the exit of Pattaya)

-continue 10 km (about) on this highway

- you arrive at an intersection with a highway for BKK.;don't take it.take the right lane.Take the "unofficial Uturn" in front of the big building on your right.(an "international! school")

-take the first road on your left .

-The building is on your right at 200m

Hope this help

djinn

[KevinN]

YEA GEORGE,I thought that the part about"class on how to drive safely in Thailand" was a real HOOT too.