Australian To Thai Licensing

[mcyachty]

I am looking at the prospect of moving to Thailand, as it appears the job I have applied for may come through. I have been following these forums, and go through all the "top topics" that are posted each day. A lot of the listings have answered some my questions that are going around my mind, and there are some still pinging around. I think I will divide these questions into their relevant areas, than lump everything into one. Some of the threads regarding traffic offences have been very informative.

I have an Australian drivers license which I have held in the State of New South Wales for 25 years. About 3 years ago, I went through the process of getting a motorcycle certification added, and now have the un-restricted "Rider" classification on my license. This license is valid until 15th April 2013.

My questions;

• Do I need to get a Thai license?
  
• Should I get a Thai license?
  
• If so, do I need separate ones for Motorcycle and for car?
  
• Procedure to do this? (I read on a previous thread 2 different experiences, 1 involving 2 hours, eyesight colour blindness tests etc, and 1 that took 10 minutes).
  
• Should I take with me before I leave, a complete record of my history that is available from the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority?
  
• I have a clear license with no traffic infringements for over 15 years (not bragging, but). Does this have any bearing?
  

I will be in the Pattaya/Bang Sa-re/ Na Chom area if this is any help.

[neverdie]

Do a thaivisa search, using the search button above....all the info is in there.

[Dave the Dude]

My questions;

• Do I need to get a Thai license? I would advise getting one if staying longterm
  
• Should I get a Thai license? see above
  
• If so, do I need separate ones for Motorcycle and for car? yes
  
• Procedure to do this? (I read on a previous thread 2 different experiences, 1 involving 2 hours, eyesight colour blindness tests etc, and 1 that took 10 minutes). Every office seem to have a different agenda but I took IDL & UK lisence covering bike&car, Thai forms completed,reaction test/color blindness test.DONE. 2 x Thai 1 year lisences.
  
• Should I take with me before I leave, a complete record of my history that is available from the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority? Not necessary as they wont be able to read it anyway
  
• I have a clear license with no traffic infringements for over 15 years (not bragging, but). Does this have any bearing? None other than maybe questions in Thai Insurance policy
  

I will be in the Pattaya/Bang Sa-re/ Na Chom area if this is any help.

Dave

[mcyachty]

Dave,

Thanks for the quick reply. Much appreciated.

One thing concerns me, I have limited colour blindness.

[Soutpeel]

Dave,

Thanks for the quick reply. Much appreciated.

One thing concerns me, I have limited colour blindness.

Simple process, existing licenses and IDP, get someone Thai to go with you, as there are forms to fill in in Thai, pay your money, couple of basic tests, vision tests....complete a get 1 year Thai DL, wait one year till 1 year expires then get the 5 year...

Unless you only see in black and white, you are not color blind, you are (iam guessing) red/green deficient, seeing as you are male....Thai "colour blindness" test..... easy...you will pass...I know I am "colour blind" the same and i could do it no problem

[garyh]

You can get a 1 year international licence to cover you until you get around to getting a Thai one. RACQ do it in QLD I imagine NSW equivilant will do the same, $25 for 1 year.