How to Get a Thai Driving License in 2026: Documents, Tests, and Renewals

If you plan to drive a car while living in Thailand, it’s a great idea to apply for a Thai driving license. This is the only way to ensure that you can drive legally in the country and be fully covered by car insurance.

It’s also easy to get a license as long you meet the requirements.

In this guide, you’ll find out how to apply for a Thai driving license in Thailand, the tests involved, how much it’ll cost, and what the renewal process is like.

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Why Should You Get It?

If you know how to drive, in our opinion, you should get a Thai driving license as fast as you can. I always recommend everyone we know to get a Thai driving license if possible. It doesn’t only allow you to drive legally in Thailand. There are many other benefits.

Here’s what you can do with a Thai driving license:

• You can drive legally in Thailand
• You can use it as an identification card in Thailand. For example, when you take a domestic flight in Thailand, you can just show your Thai driving license instead of a passport.
• By showing your Thai driving license, you might get Thai prices instead of a “farang” price at certain places.
• You can obtain an international driving permit (IDP) with it.
• You can use it to drive in 10 ASEAN countries without having to obtain an IDP.

Requirements  

Requirements of getting a driving license in Thailand are quite similar to many parts of the world. You must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have good physical and mental health
• Have knowledge of both driving and the driving laws in Thailand

Paperwork

The documents you need for a driving license are:

• Application
• Passport 
• Thai Residence certificate, dated within 30 days of application or a work permit with a signed copy
• Health certificate issued from any clinic or hospital, dated within 30 days of the application
• Optional: a valid international driver’s license with a signed copy, or driver’s license from your home country

Here’s more into what you need to do on each document. 

Application

You can pick up an application right at the Department of Land Transport. In many cases, the information counter will hand it to you and check your documents after you tell them that you are here to apply for a driver’s license.

Passport

Although you must show that you’re living in Thailand long-term, some people have reported that they can get a Thai driving license even with a tourist visa. This is because most Department of Land Transport offices don’t actually care about what kind of visa you’re holding.

What they want to see is a residence certificate, which is difficult to get unless you have a long-term visa.

Also, depending on which Department of Land Transport office you go to, you may need to provide copies of the following pages from your passport:

• The first page of the passport
• The page containing the valid non-immigrant visa
• The page containing the last entry stamp for Thailand

If you don’t have copies yet, there’s usually a copy machine inside the Department of Land Transport that charges a few baht per page.

Residence Certificate

An easy way to get a residence certificate in Thailand is to visit your local immigration office with your passport, a 90-day notification receipt, and either a copy of your lease contract or your landlord’s housebook with their ID copies. 

You can usually get the certificate within one day, and it’s valid for 30 days.

Previously, you could use a work permit and a signed copy as an alternative to the residence certificate. However, we have received reports from our readers that certain Department of Land Transports, such one one at Chatuchak, no longer accepts a work permit with a signed copy. 

Instead, they always ask for a residence certificate.

If you have a yellow book, which is issued by having your name listed on a Thai house registration, you can use it as an alternative to the residence certificate.

Read more: A step-by-step guide on how to obtain a residence certificate

Medical Certificate

To get a medical certificate for your driving license in Thailand, you can go to any clinic or hospital and let them know the purpose of your visit. They will usually ask to see your passport, ask you some questions, perform a quick checkup, and issue the certificate.

The cost of a medical certificate varies depending on where you go. Clinics typically charge between THB150 to THB300, while hospitals may charge THB600 or more, depending on the facilities and services available.

If you forget to bring your medical certificate with you to the Department of Land Transport, you can ask a motorcycle taxi for assistance. They can take you to the nearest clinic to obtain a new certificate.

Tip: In case it’s the Department of Land Transport at Chatuchak, you can also get a medical certificate from the clinic near the DLT’s entrance. It’s called Dr. Lamduan Clinic (Google Maps link), and he specializes in health certificates for Thai driving licenses.  Just show your passport, fill out the form, and get your blood pressure checked. The cost is THB200 and takes no more than 10 minutes.

It’s worth noting that a medical certificate is valid for 30 days.

International Driver’s License or Driver’s License from Your Home Country (Optional) 

If you have an international driver’s license or a driver’s license from your home country, it’s going to be very easy to get a Thai driving license because you can skip many of the required tests. 

Please note that if a driver’s license from your home country is not in English, you need to have it translated into English and certified by the embassy or consulate.

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You can jump to this section to find out how to get a Thai driving license with a license from your home country. 

Procedure and Tests

In 2026, the steps for getting a Thai driving license are slightly different based on three scenarios:

• You don’t have any driving license and want to apply for a Thai driving license at the Department of Land Transport yourself
• You don’t have any driving license and want to apply for a Thai driving license via a Thai driving school
• You already have a driving license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP) and want to exchange it for a Thai driving license

So, let’s take a look at each scenario step by step.

Going to the DLT Office

While the procedures and tests are the same at all DLT offices, for this guide, we’ll focus on the process at the DLT in Chatuchak, as it’s the most popular place for expats to get a Thai driving license.

When you get to the DLT, you have to walk to the back of the property to Building 4 — a large, white building. 

Enter the front doors and go to the help desk. Tell them what you’re there for, and they’ll check your documents, give you an application to fill out, and then provide you with a queue number. 

Afterward, you have to go to the fourth floor and submit your documents to someone who will register your name in the system. (You’ll return to this area to get your license once you pass all your tests later on.)

The tests will be done in three parts.

• physical test
• theory test
• driving test 

Let’s take a look at each test individually. 

Physical Tests

After you submit your documents on floor four, you have to go to floor three for your physical tests. All of the tests are straightforward and don’t require any preparation. Here’s the physical tests you need to do:

Color Blindness Test

• Stand in front of a mock traffic light and say the color (red, green, yellow)
• Thai preferred, but English is acceptable
• Must say “yellow” (not orange) in Thailand or you will fail

Depth Perception Test

• Use forward/backward buttons to align a moving bar with a fixed bar
• Can be tricky if lighting is strong

Reflex Test

• Press accelerator until green lights appear
• Hit the brake before lights reach the red zone

Peripheral Vision Test

• Focus straight ahead and call out colors appearing on left and right sides

If you fail any of the tests on your first attempt, you have to go back outside before going back inside with the next group.

These tests are very easy. Every time I need to do the test, I never fail. A majority of people who were in the same test room also passed the test within the first attempt except for those who seems to have an eye problem.

Theory Video and Test 

This steps will involve watching a video and taking a theory test.

Go to the third floor to register for the theory test on the day of your appointment and be sure to bring your appointment card and passport.

The video begins around 9 AM and breaks at 11:50 AM for lunch, then continues from 1 PM to 2:30 PM. 

At the end of the video, you will be given a book of road signs that you must know. Study these carefully, as they will show up on the test.

After that, you will be ushered into a room on the same floor and register for the theory test. You have to scan your fingerprint with the main officer. Afterward, staff will take you to a computer, where you will have to scan your fingerprint again. Then you can begin the test.

You have to answer at least 45 out of 50 questions right to pass, and they are all multiple choice. The tricky thing is, some questions weren’t translated into English as clearly as they should’ve been. And some questions seem to have more than one right answer.

I questioned the staff about this, and they laughed it off and said, “Yes, I know.” So don’t expect help when confusing questions arise.

Tip: To help you prepare for the theory test, I highly recommend that you study for the test ahead of time, at least for one hour every day for the five days leading up to your theory test appointment. There are a lot of resources out there that claim to help you, but I’ve found this site to be the absolute best. If you fail, you can return the next day to retake the theory test. If you pass, you will be given another appointment card to return for your practical driving test.

Practical Driving Test

Compared to other countries, the practical driving test in Thailand is relatively easy because you have to perform the test alone in a car, and there are no complicated maneuvers required.

However, you have to pay attention to the details required for each station, or you will fail the test. The practical driving test is made up of three stations (although some DLT says five):

• driving forward and backward: you have to drive forward between a row of orange and white striped poles until the rear of your car passes the last pole. Then you have to drive in reverse through the same row until the front of your car passes the first pole.
• driving along a curb and stopping at a stop sign: you have to drive along a curb, making sure that your left front and rear wheels stay on the yellow line, about 25 centimeters from the curb. Then, you have to stop the car one meter from the stop sign.
• parallel parking and exiting: you have to parallel park the car in the space provided. You have up to seven gear switches to park the car. So, reversing into the spot is considered one gear switch, pulling forward while in the spot is considered two, and so on. 

While you’re taking these tests, DLT observers will watch you to make sure you’re doing them correctly. You cannot hit any of the poles or you’ll fail.

When you’re satisfied with the position of your car at each of these stations, raise your right hand out of the driver’s side window to let the observer know to inspect your position.

For more details on how to undertake the practical driving test, you can watch this video.

If you fail the practical driving test, you can retake it again after three business days. And you only have to redo the station you failed, not all three (unless you fail all three). 

However, you must pass all the stations in the practical driving test within 90 days, or you have to repeat the entire process.

Note about Car Rental for a Driving Test: You can rent a car for the driving test from the DLT for between THB 100 and THB 200. But don’t expect it to be in good condition. My friend rented one before, and both rear mirrors were missing. So, if you have a car that you’ve been practicing in, bring that instead.

Getting the License 

Once you’ve done all the tests, it’s finally time to get your license. Head back to the fourth floor of Building A and wait for your queue number. 

Another officer will conduct a final check of your documents before taking your photo, receiving your payment, and granting you a temporary Thai driving license, which is valid for 2 years.

It’s essential to examine the details printed on your license and ensure that they are correct, and if there is any discrepancy, make sure it is rectified before leaving the office.

Apply for a New Thai Driving License at a Driving School

Here’s the second scenario: you apply for a new Thai driving license at a driving school.

In Thailand, there are many driving schools registered by the Department of Land Transport. You can find them throughout Thailand. You can take all tests there. The steps are quite similar to doing it at the Department of Land Transport. It normally goes like this:

• You learn how to drive with a Thai driving school. It’s normally a 15-20 hour course
• At the end of the course, you go to the driving school to do all the tests, which are the same tests as those at the Department of Land Transport. The tests can be done within a day
• Once you pass all the tests, you get a certificate and bring it to the Department of Land Transport later to get your Thai driving license

The process here can be simpler than doing everything yourself at the Department of Land Transport. For example, the driving schools will focus on teaching you how to pass the practical driving tests. They also give you a mock test for the theory exam. And you don’t need to make an appointment at the DLT yourself.

So, if you want an easy way to get a Thai driving license and you don’t know how to drive, this can be a good option.

There are two main drawbacks though:

• Most driving schools require you to take a course with them. This means an extra fee of THB 5,000 to THB 8,000 depending on the course
• The tests at a driving school may be available only on Saturday or Sunday

Type and Fees

There are two main types of Thai driving licenses:

• 2-year temporary license, which costs THB 205
• 5-year license, which costs THB 505

If it’s your first time getting a Thai driving license, you will get a 2-year temporary license first. Then, you can exchange it for a 5-year license later.

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The main difference is that you can only get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Thailand with a 5-year license.

There are other types of Thai driving licenses, such as those for driving public cars, buses, trucks, and so on. However, they are not for expats or most people. They have different steps and fees. Since they are not relevant for most people, we won’t include them in this article.

Renewing Your Thai Driving License

Renewing your Thai driving license or converting your two-year license to a five-year license is a straightforward process. You can renew it three months before it expires.

You need the same documents you used when you initially applied for your license, except this time around you don’t have to do the theory or practical driving tests.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Watch the Online DLT video. You have to start by creating an account at DLT e-Learning. Then, log in and watch an hour video. Once it’s done, you’ll receive a QR code which you can take a picture of and store in your phone.
• Prepare document: Here’s what you need
  • Thai driving license 
  • Valid passport 
  • Residence certificate dated within 30 days of applying or a work permit with a signed copy
  • Health certificate dated within 30 days of applying
  • Online DLT video QR code
• Go to any Department of Land Transport Office. Visit the DLT and go to the information desk. Show the staff your documents. Then, do the physical tests again.
• Get Your License. Once you pass all your tests, you will go to another window to have your photo taken and pay for your license. Now, you get a 5-year license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are frequently asked questions about getting a Thai driving license.

Do I Need to Make an Appointment? 

Based on my experience, it totally depends entirely on which Department of Land Transport office you visit and the time of year. If they are not busy, there’s usually no need to make an appointment. However, if they are busy, they may ask you to schedule one.

The best approach is to contact the Department of Land Transport office in the area you plan to visit. If they have a Facebook page or a LINE ID, those are typically the best ways to communicate with them.

Alternatively, you can simply walk in. Most of the time, you should be able to start the process on the same day. If not, a DLT officer will schedule an appointment for you. 

If you wish to make an online appointment, you can do so on this site. However, please note that it might not always work.

When Should I Visit the Department of Land Transport? 

To make a Thai driving license, you should visit the Department of Land Transport early in the morning, preferably before 8 a.m., to complete most processes on the same day.

However, you may need to come back the following day for the driving test. 

In case of renewing a license, I normally go in the afternoon to avoid morning rush.

How Many Days Does It Take to Get a Thai Driving License? 

In case you already have a driver’s license from your home country, it will take only a single day to do it. 

If not, it takes 2-3 days to do it. On the first day, you do all of the tests and then come back on another day to get the license.

Typically, you may need to visit the Department of Land Transport two times. You will need to take all necessary tests on your first visit, excluding the driving test. You can take the driving test and get your license on your second visit.

Unfortunately, you may encounter bad luck and be unable to schedule an appointment for several days or even weeks. In the worst case I’ve seen, it took a month. To avoid these potential delays, you should aim to complete the process in two days by arriving at the Department of Land Transport office early in the morning. 

Is it Easy to Get a Thai Driving License?

Yes, it’s very easy, even if you don’t know how to drive at all. Only basic skills are required to get a driving license. If you are concerned about your driving skills, just take a course at a driving school. I know many people who passed all the tests on their first try after learning from driving schools. (And some of them still don’t have the confidence to drive on the street even after they already have a driving license.)

If not, it may require you to take 2-3 attempts to pass.

Can I Apply for a Thai Driving License and Motorcycle Driving License at the Same Time?

Yes, it’s possible. And actually, it’s recommended to do so. It requires the same steps and tests. The only difference is the practical test, which is very easy for a motorcycle.

However, you need to prepare two sets of documents and also take a motorcycle practical test.

Read our guide to getting a motorcycle license in Thailand for more information.

Can I Apply for the Driving License Myself If I Can’t Speak Thai? 

Even if you do not understand Thai, it is still possible to go to the Department of Land Transport office and obtain a license independently. 

Several staff members are capable of speaking basic English and can assist you with the process.

When Can I Renew My Driving License? 

It’s possible to renew your Thai driving license three months before it expires, or within one year after it expires.

What Happens When My Driving License Expires?

If your driving license expires for more than a year, you have to retake the theory test. 

And if it has expired for more than three years, you will need to retake the theory and practical driving tests.

Please be aware that if you drive with an expired license, you could get a fine of up to 2,000 baht. Also, if you have an accident, your car insurance might not cover it.

Do DLT offices require different steps and processes?

Unfortunately, yes. Like many other things in Thailand, they may require different documents and steps. For example, one office may ask you to translate and certify your driving license, while some, like the one in Chatuchak, don’t require it.

Some may also check your visa stamps, while others just look at your certificate of residence. Some DLT offices may also skip the color blindness test entirely.

Some offices may also require an appointment, while at others, you can just walk in.

So, the best way, like when dealing with your visa, is to go to a popular DLT office that deals with foreigners regularly. You should also ask that office exactly what you need to prepare and what steps you need to follow.

Department of Land Transport Location

Driving licenses can be issued at any Department of Land Transport office in Thailand, which can be found throughout the country, with at least one office in each major town and several in larger cities.

The Department of Land Transport offices are open on weekdays (excluding holidays), typically from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM or 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Because the Department of Land Transport is a government organization, it is important to dress modestly: shirts must have sleeves and shorts/skirts must be below the knees.

However, you can actually go before the opening hours to avoid a long queue.

Here’s a list of Department of Land Transport locations throughout Thailand:

Bangkok

Bang Khun Thian (Area One )

• Address: 1005 Bang Khun Thian-Chai Thalae Rd, Tha Kham, Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok 10150
• Phone: 02-415-7337
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Taling Chan (Area Two)

• Address: 51 Soi Suan Phak 4 (Soi Khon Song) , Taling Chan, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170
• Phone: 02-882-1623, 02-882-1624, 02-882-1629, 02-882-1634
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Phra Khanong (Area Three)

• Address: 2479 Sukhumvit Road (Opposite Soi Sukhumvit 62/1), Bang Chak, Phra Khanong, Bangkok 10260
• Phone: 02-332-9688, 02-332-9689, 02-332-9691, 02-332-9694
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Nong Chok (Area Four)

• Address: 4 Moo 6, Ruam Phatthana Road, Lam Toi Ting, Nong Chok, Bangkok 10530
• Phone: 02-543-5500, 02-543-5501, 02-543-5502
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Chatuchak (Area Five)

• Address: 1032 Phahonyothin Road, Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
• Phone: 02-771-8888
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Chiang Mai

• Address: 192 Moo 7, Chiang Mai-Hangdong Road, Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50100
• Phone: 053-270410, 053-278570
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Chonburi

• Address: 147 Moo 1, Sukhumvit Road, Nong Mai Daeng, Mueang Chonburi, Chonburi 20000
• Phone: 038-275-202, 038-277-876
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Phuket

• Address: 42/1 Rattanakosin 200 Pi Rd, Talat Nuea, Muang Phuket, Phuket 83150
• Phone: 076-214-930
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Other 

You can find all offices of the Department of Land Transport office in Thailand online. 

Next Steps

The information provided in this article is correct as of March 2026, and certain details may change in the future. Therefore, the most accurate way to understand the current regulations is to inquire directly with the Department of Land Transportation.