How Foreigners Can Get a Driving Licence in Thailand

Foreigners can apply for a Thai driving licence through the Department of Land Transport (DLT), but the exact documents and steps can vary by office.

Use this guide as a practical checklist, then confirm the latest requirements with your local DLT office and the official DLT page before booking or attending.

What this guide covers

This page is for foreigners applying for a Thai driving licence, including both first-time applicants and people converting a valid foreign licence. The process can differ depending on whether you are applying for a car licence, motorcycle licence, or both. Common minimum ages often referenced are 18+ for car licences and 15+ for motorcycle licences

Common documents foreigners are asked for

Passport (original) plus copies of bio page and current visa/extension stamp

Proof of Thai address (commonly a residence certificate or work permit, depending on your case)

Medical certificate (from a clinic/hospital, usually recent and commonly within 30 days)

Foreign driving licence (if converting) and copies

International Driving Permit (if you have one and your office accepts it for conversion process support)

Passport-size photos if requested (some offices take photos on site)

Address documents are one of the most common reasons for delays. Bring originals and signed copies.

Typical process at the DLT office

Check whether your local DLT office requires an online booking before walk-in (some use DLT Smart Queue).

Submit documents and complete the application at the counter.

Complete physical screening tests (commonly color blindness, reaction, and depth/peripheral vision tests).

Complete required training/theory steps if applicable.

Take theory and/or practical test if your case requires it.

Pay the licence fee and collect your licence card.

Queue/booking system (commonly used): DLT Smart Queue

First-time vs conversion applications

First-time applicants: usually complete the full process, which may include training, theory testing, and practical testing depending on the licence category.

Conversion applicants: if you hold a valid foreign licence, some offices may reduce parts of the testing process. Requirements vary by office and by the documents you provide.

Many applicants are first issued a temporary Thai licence before later upgrading/renewing to a longer-validity licence. Check the official DLT pages for the licence type and validity that applies to your case.

Practical note: many guides report a temporary 2-year licence first, followed by a later 5-year renewal, but your exact path depends on your documents and office procedure.

Test and fee expectations (office-dependent)

If you are not converting from a qualifying foreign licence, you may be asked to complete theory and practical testing after the physical screening tests.

Some practical guides report the theory test as 50 multiple-choice questions with a passing score of 45, but confirm the latest format and score requirement with DLT.

Fees vary by licence type and can change. Check the DLT page or your local office for the latest official fee schedule before attending.

Common issues to avoid

Turning up without the correct address proof

Bringing copies but not originals

Assuming one DLT office follows the same rules as another

Missing a booking requirement or arriving late for test slots

Not checking whether translation/notarization is needed for your foreign licence

Official source

The Department of Land Transport publishes guidance for new licence applications and temporary two-year licences here:

DLT New License Page DLT Two-Year License Page

Additional practical cross-check used for this guide: Roojai driving guide article (non-government source). DLT pages remain the primary source for final requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners get a Thai driving licence?+

Yes. Foreigners can apply for a Thai driving licence if they meet DLT requirements and provide the required identity, immigration status, and address documents.

Do I need a residence certificate or work permit?+

In many cases, yes. DLT offices commonly ask for proof of Thai address, often a residence certificate or a valid work permit showing your address. Confirm your local office's requirement before going.

Can I convert my foreign licence instead of taking all tests?+

Often yes, depending on your licence type and local DLT office rules. Some applicants can convert a valid foreign licence (or use an international driving permit) with fewer tests than first-time applicants.

Do requirements vary by DLT office?+

Yes. Booking systems, accepted documents, translations, and test requirements can vary by office. Always check your local DLT office and the official DLT page before attending.

DLT requirements and local office practices can change. Always confirm with your local DLT office before you attend.