Do I need an International Driving Permit in Thailand?
For visitors on a short trip. The rules depend on where your license was issued. Last reviewed November 3, 2026.
Short answer: Yes, for most visitors. Thailand expects drivers with a foreign license to carry an official International Driving Permit with it, and police checkpoints often ask for it. A translation does not replace the IDP. Get it before you travel from the official issuer in the country that issued your license.
At a glance
| IDP for most visitors | Required |
|---|---|
| Does a translation help? | Yes, as an extra to the IDP |
| Main language | Thai |
| Drives on the | Left |
What to carry
- Your valid driver's license
- Your passport
- An official International Driving Permit. Where to get one
- A Thai translation of your license (optional extra)
Our advice: Get an official IDP before you go from the official issuer in the country that issued your license. A translation can help as an extra, but it does not replace the IDP.
Tips for driving in Thailand
- Traffic drives on the left.
- Riding a scooter needs a motorcycle category on your license and IDP.
Questions about driving in Thailand
Can I drive in Thailand with a foreign driver's license?
Most foreign licenses are only valid together with an official International Driving Permit. Carry both, plus your passport.
Does a license translation help in Thailand?
It can help with conversations, but it does not replace the official IDP that Thailand requires.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Thailand?
The left.
Helpful guides
- License translation vs. International Driving Permit
- Driving abroad by license country (UK, Dutch, Indian, French, German)
- What documents you need to rent a car abroad
- Is an online "international driver's license" legit?
Other country guides
- Driving in Japan
- Driving in South Korea
- Driving in Australia
- Driving in New Zealand
- Driving in Indonesia (Bali)
- Driving in Philippines
- Driving in Malaysia
- Driving in Singapore
Rules change, and acceptance is up to local authorities and rental companies. Check before you travel: EU: driving license recognition (Your Europe) · UK government: driving abroad · US State Department country information. instantEDP is a private translation service, not an IDP issuer. Questions? [email protected]