Driving in Thailand - license requirements
 

If we want to drive in Thailand (no, not in Bangkok!), do we need an international drivers' license or can we use a US license?
Thanks

Thailand does require an international license.

That said, some people have rented cars without it.

OMGosh! what a brave soul u must be, driving in Thailand I'm scared to death just riding in the taxi's. and i always thought Mexico City was scary

Hired a nice large Honda 4 x 4 from what appeared to be a reputable agency at Laguna Phuket (The Dusit pointed us there saying it was half the price of getting it from them) - no problems with my tatty old paper UK driving licence with my passport for photo ID- but I believe the "official" line is International Driver's Licence

Not having an international driver's license won't be a problem unless your are involved in an accident of some sort. As it is required by law, not having it will invalidate insurance coverage, leaving you personally liable.

I rented a motorbike in Kanchanaburi and no license was required, not even my Oregon dl.

Often the non-chain company rental agents won't require a license or anything...but beware...it IS your responsibility to have the proper license and insurance (so check your rental agreement to be sure you're covered as well as your home policy's validity overseas as well).

It is a surefire way to wreck a holiday having to pay out for damages/injury due to lack of insurance. In many countries in Asia, including Thailand, in the event of accident, regardless of whose fault it REALLY is, the foreigner is responsible by default...it's not fair, but it's the way it works in many places. Best to cover yourself best you can, so if you must drive, have the proper license rather then tempt fate.

The international license costs around $10.00 and is available from AAA offices in the US. Easy and cheap to get, and satisfies your legal obligation to have one to drive in Thailand.

Some info on the International Driving Permit from my local AAA office in Hawaii

http://www.aaa-hawaii.com/travel/idp.aspx

Aloha!

Better to have the proper international license and a basic understanding of Thai traffic law.

An International Licence 'is' required by law. Rental companies though don't seem to bother. However, it 'is the law' and if something goes wrong and you don't have one you will wonder why you just didn't spend that $10-15 for one !
They area easily obtained, in Australia it's about A$15 from any RAAA or local equivelent and about $10 in US from AAA.

i have never had one and i have read jamesA's words many times.,,,..best to have one...get one from AAA