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Do I need an international driving license for Thailand?

I have an incredible opportunity to go live in Thailand for six months. I’m doing my research on what I’ll need to prepare for a trip like this, but I’m not sure how to qualify for driving there. Do I need an international license?

avatar
Cassandra Hamilton · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Living in Thailand for six months could be like living in paradise! You might be surprised to learn that, unlike in many other countries, foreign driver’s licenses aren’t recognized in Thailand. You will need an international driving permit (IDP) for Thailand if you expect to get around via car or scooter.
To get your International Driving Permit, you will need to follow these steps:
  • Apply with an
    FIA/AIT
    -compliant organization.
  • You must be 18 or older.
  • You must apply within the US before you go abroad.
  • You need to be fully licensed—no temporary permits or learner’s licenses.
  • Pay the permit fee of $20.
  • Provide two photographs that follow the
    same standards as a US passport
    .
A popular way to get around Thailand is by
motorcycle or scooter
, so it may be a bit of a shock to come home to your standard car. Why not make a fresh start with your car insurance when you get back? All you have to do is download the
Jerry
app.
Jerry is a licensed car insurance broker that can help you save an average of $887 per year on your car insurance. Jerry has a team of experts standing by to help you the moment you need it, and they’ll handle the paperwork and help you cancel your old insurance, too. Now that’s service!
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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