International Driving License Thailand
In Thailand, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) is essential for foreign visitors who want to drive legally and for Thai citizens who plan to drive abroad. Below is a comprehensive guide for both situations: international driving license thailand, International Driver’s License thailand, International Driver’s Permit thailand, International Driver’s Licence thailand, International Licence Permit thailand
For Foreigners Driving in Thailand:
Who Needs an International Driving Permit?
– Foreigners visiting Thailand and intending to drive need to possess a valid driver’s license from their home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
– If your home country’s driver’s license is in English or Thai, you might not require an IDP, but it’s generally advisable to have one for smoother interactions with local authorities.
How to Use Your IDP in Thailand:
– Always carry both your IDP and your valid home country license when driving in Thailand.
– An IDP is usually valid in Thailand for the duration of your stay (up to 6 months for tourists).
– If you plan to stay in Thailand for an extended period (more than 6 months), you may need to obtain a Thai driver’s license.
Additional Requirements:
– In addition to the IDP, foreign drivers must adhere to local traffic laws and have mandatory vehicle insurance.
For Thai Citizens Driving Internationally:
How to Obtain an International Driving Permit in Thailand:
– Thai citizens intending to drive abroad can apply for an IDP through (IMTA).
– The typical requirements for IDP application include a valid Thai driver’s license, a passport-sized photo, a copy of your Thai national ID card, a copy of your passport, a completed application form, and a processing fee.
Where to Apply:
– Applications for an IDP can be submitted in person at IMTA or other regional offices.
Validity:
– An IDP issued in Thailand is generally valid for 1 year and must be used alongside a valid Thai driving license while driving abroad.
Driving Laws in Thailand:
– Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
– The minimum driving age is 18 for cars and 15 for motorcycles.
– Seatbelts are mandatory, and motorcyclists must wear helmets.
– Speed limits and other traffic rules are rigorously enforced, with fines for violations.
Important Notes:
– Foreigners in Thailand: Without an IDP or a valid foreign license, you are not permitted to drive and may face legal penalties.
– Thai Citizens Abroad: The IDP allows Thai drivers to operate vehicles in countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Always verify the specific driving requirements of the country you are visiting.
Having an IDP ensures that foreign drivers in Thailand and Thai citizens driving abroad are legally permitted to drive, and it simplifies interactions with law enforcement.
What you need to rent a car, and how to rent one
As a tourist, you’ll most likely be renting a car (more on that in a bit) for your road trip. Even so, there are certain requirements that you’ll have to check off before you get into it.
- You have to get an International Driver’s Permit. Apply for it online or head to the office — we prefer doing it in person because the queue is pretty short during off-peak hours, and you can get it done on the same day. It’ll cost S$20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
- A valid local driver’s license. international driving licence online
- You have to be at least 21 years of age and have held your local licence for a year. A surcharge may be imposed for drivers under the age of 25.
- A passport for identification .
- A credit card in the driver’s name.
How to obtain an international driving permit
The process of obtaining an international driving license directly from an office can be quite challenging and time-consuming. The payment methods involved can also be complex. Therefore, it is recommended to consider applying for an international driving license from IMTA. The application process only takes around 10 to 15 minutes, making it a more efficient option for getting your international driving permit
The necessary details required for the application of an International driving permit include:
– Full Name
– Email & Phone Number
– Current Address
– Place of Birth
– National Driver’s License Number
– National Driver’s License Issued Date & Expiry Date
– Picture of Driver’s License & Your Head Shot Photo for Your IDP
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