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Acquiring a Driving License in Thailand

March 4, 2023

Driving a car in Thailand requires obtaining a valid driving license. If you are a foreigner, it is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and processes involved before applying for a driving license in Thailand. In this article, we will focus on driving licenses for vehicles (cars) based on our experience. 

Requirements 

To obtain a driving license for a car in Thailand, the applicant must meet certain conditions. The applicant must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid non-immigrant visa, and be in good physical and mental health. The required documents include a passport with a non-immigrant visa, photos, a residence certificate issued by the Immigration Bureau, a medical certificate, and a valid international driving license (if any). 

The examination for obtaining a car driving license in Thailand involves both a theory and a practical driving test.  

The theory and practical driving tests include the following: 

  • Color blindness test 
  • Reflex test 
  • Peripheral test
  • Depth perception test 
  • Theory test 
  • Practical driving test 

The theory test is a 50-question exam that must be taken via an electronic examination system after completing a 5-hour training program. The applicant must score at least 90% (45 questions) to pass the exam. The practical driving test includes forward and backward driving, sidewalk parking, and parking in a car park. 

The cost of a 2-year driving license for a car in Thailand is approximately 300-400 THB, which can be renewed and changed to a 5-year license after its expiration. The entire process, from training to obtaining the license, takes approximately 2 days. 

Training 

For new applicants, you must attend the training at the Department of Land Transportation office. The training period will be at least 5 hours, which is divided into two parts: the morning (from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.) and the afternoon (1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.). 

Writing test (theory test) 

After the training is completed, the applicant is required to take the writing test via an electronic examination system. The exam consists of 50 questions, and the applicant must get at least 90 percent, or 45 questions, correct. If the applicant fails to meet such criteria, they will have to retake the exam on the next day or no later than 90 days after the training. 

Practice test (practical driving test) 

The practical driving test includes forward and backward driving, sidewalk parking, and parking in a car park. 

If you have any questions about the above, please contact us at [email protected] 

Fabian, a founding partner of FRANK Legal & Tax, is a German-trained lawyer with expertise in corporate/commercial and real estate law, and litigation, and has been living and working in Thailand since 2005.


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