Educational Information Only
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Converting a Foreign Driving License to a Thai License
Complete step-by-step checklist for converting your foreign driving license to a Thai driving license at the Department of Land Transport (DLT).
Document Checklist
Valid foreign driving license (original)
Must be a full (not provisional) license. Some DLT offices accept international driving permits as supporting evidence.
Certified translation of foreign driving license into Thai
Must be translated by a certified translator. Some DLT offices accept English licenses without translation.
Embassy or consulate certification of driving license
Many DLT offices require certification that your foreign license is genuine. Most embassies issue this letter for a small fee.
Valid passport (original + 2 copies)
Including the page showing your current visa or permission to stay.
Valid non-tourist visa (Non-B, Non-O, LTR, DTV, etc.)
Tourist visas generally cannot be used — most DLT offices require a non-tourist visa.
Medical certificate from a licensed Thai doctor
Dated within 30 days of application. Available at clinics near DLT offices for THB 100-300.
Two recent passport photos (2x2 inches)
House registration or proof of address in Thailand
Some DLT offices request this — a utility bill, TM.30 receipt, or rental agreement typically suffices.
Pass the reaction time and colour blindness tests at DLT
These are conducted on-site at DLT offices. Simple tests — arrive early as queues can be long.
Pay license fee (THB 100-205 per license type)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Attempting conversion on a tourist visa — most DLT offices require a non-tourist visa.
Bringing the foreign license without embassy certification — the DLT may reject it.
Forgetting the medical certificate — it must be recent (within 30 days).
Not knowing which license type you need — car and motorcycle are separate licenses in Thailand.
Helpful Tips
Arrive at 7:30-8:00 AM — DLT offices open at 8:30 AM but queues start forming earlier.
Bring both the original documents AND photocopies of everything.
The conversion process exempts you from the driving test in most cases.
A Thai driving license is initially valid for 2 years, then 5 years on renewal.
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