On arrival: the international permit
For the first few weeks, the solution is the International Driving Permit (IDP), issued in Spain before you travel (at the DGT) and always carried alongside your Spanish license — the IDP isn't valid on its own. It's a solution built for tourists: convenient on landing, but not what you want if you're going to live there. Once you settle in, it's time to move to the local license.
Getting the Thai license
The good news: by presenting your valid Spanish license and the international permit at the Department of Land Transport, the practical exam is usually waived. The process is mostly paperwork:
| You need | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spanish license + IDP | To waive the practical exam |
| Passport and visa | Valid long-stay visa |
| Proof of address | Rental contract or TM30 |
| Medical certificate | Simple, from a local clinic |
| Basic checks | Reflexes, vision, colors; sometimes a road-safety talk or video |
A full driving test usually isn't required. There's a license for car and one for motorbike; if you're going to ride a scooter (the norm on the islands and in Chiang Mai), get both.
Why it matters for insurance
Here's the real reason, and it's not the traffic fine. Many insurance policies require you to be driving with a permit valid for the vehicle, and in a country where most expat accidents are motorbike accidents, this is real money. Riding a scooter on a car license — or with no motorbike license — can leave a claim uncovered that costs thousands of euros. The local license isn't red tape: it's your safety net. We link it to the healthcare and insurance guide for a reason.
Extra perks of the local license
- Works as an everyday ID document, so you don't carry your passport everywhere.
- Gets you resident rates at some parks and attractions.
- Is one more proof of your real life in Thailand — useful for renewals and paperwork.
Where Bexpat fits in
The license is part of your first month: we explain it and identify the paperwork when we hand over your apartment (the lease is your proof of address). We don't do the paperwork for you — it's in person — but we save you the trips back to Land Transport. If you're still deciding, start with the visa test.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive on my Spanish license?
For the first few weeks, yes, with the international permit (IDP) issued in Spain, alongside your Spanish license. To reside, get the Thai license: the IDP is a temporary tourist solution.
How do I get the Thai license?
With your Spanish license + IDP, the practical exam is waived. It's paperwork: address, a simple medical certificate and basic reflex and vision checks. A full driving test usually isn't required.
Why does it matter for insurance?
Many insurers require a permit valid for the vehicle. Without a motorbike license, a scooter accident can go uncovered, and those are the most common among expats. It's your financial safety net.