Foreigners can convert a valid foreign licence into a Thai licence or apply for a new one at a Department of Land Transport office. You normally need your passport, proof of residence (a residence certificate), a medical certificate from a clinic and, for conversion, your foreign licence with a certified translation. Expect one to three visits depending on your documents.
Riding a motorbike or driving a car in Phuket on a foreign licence alone is risky: insurers can refuse claims and police checks are routine. A Thai licence solves that, and it is useful as local ID for banks, rentals and contracts.
Figures and procedures in this guide were checked at the time of writing and can change. Always confirm with the official source or in your free pre-check.
Conversion or new licence?
If you hold a valid driving licence from your home country in the right category, you can usually apply for conversion, which is simpler and may waive parts of the practical test. If you do not hold a valid licence, or the category does not match, you apply for a new licence and take the full tests. Check which route applies before you collect documents.
Car, motorbike or both
Cars and motorbikes are separate categories with their own tests and fees. Many people in Phuket need both. They can often be processed in the same visit if your documents are ready. Tell the office, or us, which categories you need at the start.
Documents you need
- Passport and a copy of your valid visa or stay stamp
- Residence certificate, issued by immigration or your embassy depending on your case
- Medical certificate from a clinic or hospital
- Your foreign driving licence and a certified translation, for conversion
- Passport photos and the application form at the Land Transport Office
Not all stay types make a residence certificate easy to get. If your visa situation is unclear, solve that first.
What happens at the Land Transport Office
After registration you take a short set of physical tests, such as colour vision and reaction. For a new licence you also take a theory test and a practical test. The first licence is usually a temporary one that you can later replace with a longer one. Procedures differ between offices, so ask what applies on the day.
International driving permit
An international driving permit is a separate document. For people with a Thai licence, it can be arranged through the authorised channel after the Thai licence is issued. Our service assists with that on request. Which one do you need as a visitor? See IDP or Thai licence.
What the tests and the licence involve, as reported
Offices apply the rules differently, and most sources are commercial, so ask the Phuket office what applies to you.
| Item | What is reported |
|---|---|
| Theory test | Reported as required even when you hold a foreign licence, depending on the office |
| Practical test | Conversion applicants are increasingly asked to take one; motorbike applicants can face a handling test |
| New applicants | Training video and a theory test with a high pass mark, then a practical test |
| First licence | Usually temporary for 2 years, then renewable for up to 5 |
| Government fees | Reported range of about 105 to 505 THB, depending on type and duration |
For who needs a Thai licence and who can ride on an international permit, see IDP or Thai licence.
Costs and timing
The government fees depend on the category and are charged at cost. The total timeline depends on how quickly you can get the medical certificate and the residence certificate. A prepared file usually means one to three visits.
Order matters
Get the residence certificate first, because embassy appointments can take weeks. Get the medical certificate close to the application date, because it is reported to be valid for only about a month. Ask the office about photo sizes, because sources quote different ones.
Common mistakes
- Bringing a licence translation that is not certified.
- Going to the office without a residence certificate.
- Choosing the wrong category for the vehicle you ride.
- Letting your visa expire before the licence is issued.
How we help
Our Thai driving licence service arranges the translation, medical and residence certificates, books the appointment and goes with you through the office visit.
Our sister site for driving licences has a dedicated guide to converting a foreign licence in Phuket, with the routes by country and the weekend trip to DLT Krabi.
We check your case first and handle the paperwork, so you avoid wasted trips and fees.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists get a Thai driving licence?
It depends on your stay type, because the process needs proof of residence. Long-stay residents have the most straightforward route. We advise on your case.
How many visits does it take?
Usually one to three visits, depending on the province and how ready your documents are.
Do I need to take a test?
Physical tests are normal, and a new licence needs theory and practical tests. Conversion may be simpler. Check at the office or with us.
Can I get a car and motorbike licence together?
Yes, both categories can be processed at the same time.
How long is the first Thai licence valid?
Reported: 2 years, then renewable for up to 5 years.
Do I still need a theory test if I hold a foreign licence?
Reports say it can be required even for conversion. Ask the office.
How much are the government fees?
Reported at about 105 to 505 THB depending on type and duration. Our fee is quoted separately.
Official sources
Last reviewed on . Thai immigration rules and fees change. We confirm the current requirements for your case in your free pre-check.