International Driving Permit for Thailand
International Driving Permit for Thailand: IDP required for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for Thailand online in minutes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Thailand?
Police and rental agencies expect an IDP plus your national licence. Driving is on the left. An International Driving Permit is an official translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages — it never replaces your home licence, so always carry both, along with your passport.
What to carry when driving in Thailand
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for Thailand
You don't need to visit an office. Get your International Driving Permit online with International DL in minutes — we translate your licence into the official UN-convention languages and issue your IDP digitally, ready before you fly.
Which permit Thailand recognises
Thailand is party to both the 1949 Geneva and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, so an International Driving Permit issued under either treaty is recognised there.
Treaty status per the United Nations treaty depositary: 1949 Geneva Convention · 1968 Vienna Convention
Driving on the Left-hand side in Thailand
Thailand drives on the LEFT. If you normally drive on the right, allow time to adjust — roundabouts, junctions and overtaking all run the opposite way, and most rental cars will have the gear shift on your left.
The legal minimum driving age in Thailand is 18. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.
Driving to Thailand soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Common questions about driving in Thailand
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Thailand?
IDP required for foreign visitors. Police and rental agencies expect an IDP plus your national licence. Driving is on the left.
Which side of the road does Thailand drive on?
Thailand drives on the Left-hand side of the road.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
An IDP is valid for 1–3 years from the date of issue, depending on the plan you choose, and only while your national licence remains valid.
How fast can I get an IDP for Thailand?
You can get a digital International Driving Permit from International DL online in minutes — apply, and we issue your IDP without a trip to an office.
How Asia compares
Requirements change at the border. If your trip crosses into a neighbouring country, check it before you drive.
| Country | IDP | Drives on | Min. age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myanmar (Burma) | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| South Korea | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| China | IDP not recognised | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Philippines | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
| Armenia | IDP recommended | Right-hand side | 18+ |
Further reading on driving in Thailand
- International Driving License Thailand: Get Yours FastLearn everything about the international driving license thailand, from eligibility to validity, and how to apply today.
- International Driving Licence Thailand: How to Get It FastDiscover the international driving licence thailand requirements, validity and step‑by‑step application guide so you can
- International Driving Licence for Thailand – Quick GuideLearn everything about the international driving licence for Thailand, requirements, validity, and how to apply. Get you
- International Driving Permit Thailand: Fast, Easy GuideLearn what you need to know about obtaining an international driving permit Thailand, from eligibility to validity, and
Other countries
Read more in our travel guides.
Checked August 29, 2026. Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of Thailand before you travel.