Thailand proposes stricter driving tests for foreign residents, including in Phuket
A Thai transport proposal would require foreign residents to pass theory and practical tests before receiving a domestic driving licence, but current rules remain in force during a public consultation.
Thailand’s Department of Land Transport has proposed requiring foreign residents, including those in Phuket, to pass written and practical driving tests before obtaining a Thai driving licence, ending exemptions for holders of valid overseas licences or International Driving Permits.
The department opened a 30-day public consultation on 4 November 2026, with submissions due by 4 December. No changes have taken effect and no start date has been set, so existing licence-conversion procedures remain in force.
Under the draft, foreign applicants would have to complete Thai driver training and sit both examinations even if they hold a valid licence from their home country or an International Driving Permit. Applicants would no longer be able to take the exams at private driving schools. Schools could still provide classroom instruction, but examinations would have to take place at provincial land transport offices or one of five designated area offices in Bangkok.
The proposal would also generally require applicants for an initial temporary two-year Thai licence to hold a visa with at least two years of remaining validity. The department said alternative conditions could apply, but the draft does not define those exceptions.
The rules would affect foreign motorists in tourist centres such as Phuket, Chiang Mai and Pattaya if adopted. Under the current framework, foreign nationals with a valid home-country licence generally need only complete colour-blindness and reaction checks, watch a one-hour safety video and provide residency documents.
The report said the proposal has drawn concern from long-term foreign residents, many of whom live in Thailand on one-year extensions of stay rather than multi-year visas. It also cited concerns that requiring all foreign applicants to test at government offices could create appointment backlogs, particularly in provinces with large expatriate populations.
Thailand’s standard computerised theory test requires at least 45 correct answers out of 50. The report also said expatriate residents have raised concerns about awkward English translations in some traffic-law questions.
The draft covers Thai domestic licences and does not expressly change rules allowing short-term tourists to drive with valid International Driving Permits or ASEAN licences. Officials will review public submissions after the consultation closes before deciding whether to amend, adopt or withdraw the proposal.
