Driving licences across borders — translation, certification and conversion
Three distinct routes exist: using a Thai licence abroad (an International Driving Permit from the Department of Land Transport), driving in Thailand on a foreign licence, and converting a foreign licence into a Thai one, which requires a certified translation and proof of residence.
Documents to prepare
- The valid original licence plus copies of both sides
- Passport with visa page and the latest entry stamp
- A residence certificate from Immigration or your embassy
- A recent medical certificate within the period the Department of Land Transport accepts
- A certified translation of the licence into Thai or English
- Photographs in the required format
Step-by-step procedure
1. Identify the route
Driving abroad, driving in Thailand temporarily, or converting to a Thai licence — each uses a different document set.
2. Prepare the certified translation
Vehicle categories must be translated exactly as printed on the original.
3. Obtain a residence certificate
Issued by Immigration or your embassy; it has a short validity.
4. Medical check and appointment
The medical certificate must be recent; book the transport office slot in advance.
5. Attend the test and collect the licence
A physical aptitude test is standard; some cases also require a short course.
Pitfalls to avoid
- An International Driving Permit never replaces the original licence — carry both.
- Residence certificates expire quickly; requesting one too early wastes the document.
- A translation that omits vehicle categories leads to the wrong licence class.
- Expired licences are generally not accepted for conversion.
Advisory tips
- Send photos of both sides of the licence for a pre-check.
- Confirm accepted paperwork with your car rental company before travelling.
- Combine the residence certificate with a visa extension visit to save a trip.
Let us handle it end to end
Prefer not to handle the queues yourself, or worried about a rejection? Send us photos of your documents for a free pre-check. We handle the full chain — obtaining certified copies, translation, certification and submission — and keep you updated at each step. Reach us on LINE, phone or email during business hours.
Let us handle it end to end