According to the Department of Land Transport in Thailand, Thai driving licenses can be directly used in 9 ASEAN countries without the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP). This convenience is due to an agreement among ASEAN member states that allows for mutual recognition of driving licenses within the member countries.
Drivers with Thai driving licenses can legally drive in the following 9 countries:
1. Laos
2. Vietnam
3. Cambodia
4. Myanmar
5. Malaysia
6. Indonesia
7. Brunei
8. Philippines
9. Singapore
However, the Thai Department of Transport emphasizes that the license must include information in English to be accepted.
For Thai drivers wishing to travel outside the ASEAN region, applying for an International Driving Permit is still necessary. Currently, there are two main types of International Driving Permits:
1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic type: valid for 1 year, recognized in 101 countries and regions worldwide.
1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic type: valid for 3 years, applicable in 84 countries and regions worldwide.
The Department of Transport advises Thai citizens planning to drive abroad to apply for the appropriate International Driving Permit in advance, according to the requirements of the destination country, to ensure a smooth and legal trip.
