Getting licensed

From documents to licence

What happens at a Department of Land Transport (DLT) office, in order, and what to bring.

Procedures differ between offices and change over time, especially for foreigners. Check your local DLT office's requirements (and whether you can book online) before travelling.

The process

  1. Get a medical certificate

    From a clinic or hospital, usually a same-day service. It is typically only valid for a short time (about a month), so get it close to your test date.

  2. Prepare your documents

    Use the checklist below. Take originals and a few photocopies.

  3. Submit at the DLT office

    Hand in your documents and take a queue number. Many offices also support online booking or a DLT queue app.

  4. Physical tests

    Colour vision, depth perception and reaction time. See below.

  5. Training session

    First-time applicants usually watch a road-safety video or classroom session of about an hour or two. Some applicants converting an existing licence are exempt.

  6. Written (theory) test

    50 multiple-choice questions on a computer. You need 45 correct (90%) to pass. If you fail, you can retake it, often on a later date.

  7. Practical driving test

    A short test on a closed course. See below.

  8. Pay and collect

    Pay the fee, have your photo taken and get your licence. First licences are normally temporary.

Documents checklist

Tick things off as you gather them. This list is saved in your browser.

    Foreigners with a valid foreign licence or International Driving Permit may be able to skip some tests when converting, but must usually still pass the physical tests. Rules for visitors on tourist visas are stricter than for residents. Ask your office.

    The physical tests

    Colour vision

    You'll be asked to identify traffic-light colours (red, yellow, green). Colour blindness for these can disqualify you.

    Depth perception

    Usually lining up two rods or markers at a distance. Take your glasses if you need them.

    Reaction time

    A simulated braking test: press the pedal when the signal appears. Stay calm and focused.

    The practical driving test

    The format varies by office, and each licence class has its own test. You will be watched by an examiner on a marked course.

    CarCommonly includes some of these:

    • Reversing into a parking bay between markers
    • Parallel parking
    • Starting on a slope (hill start) without rolling back
    • Driving forward and reversing in a straight line, staying clear of the markers

    Marks are lost for hitting a marker, stopping the engine on the slope, rolling back, or taking too many attempts.

    MotorcycleCommonly tests slow-speed balance and control on a marked course:

    • Riding a narrow straight lane without putting a foot down or leaving the lines
    • Weaving or figure-of-eight turns around cones
    • Stopping and starting smoothly, with controlled use of both brakes
    • Signalling and checking over your shoulder where the course requires it

    Marks are lost for putting a foot down, touching a cone or line, stalling, or an unstable ride. Practise slow-speed control on a quiet lot beforehand. Ask whether a helmet is provided or you need to bring your own.

    Ask for a look at the course layout if the office allows it.

    Licence types and validity

    LicenceNotes
    Temporary private car licenceIssued first, usually valid for 2 years.
    Temporary private motorcycle licenceIssued first, usually valid for 2 years. A car licence does not automatically cover a motorcycle; each class is tested separately, so ask whether you can do both on one visit.
    5-year licenceGranted when you renew a temporary licence in good standing.
    RenewalDo it before expiry. Late renewal can mean re-testing. Renewals often involve a quick eye test and sometimes a short video.
    Digital licenceThe DLT offers an official digital licence in its app; confirm its current status for your licence.

    Fees are modest: roughly a few hundred baht for a car licence, plus small test or certificate fees. Check the current DLT fee list.

    Fees are modest: roughly a hundred baht for a motorcycle licence, plus small test or certificate fees. Check the current DLT fee list.

    Test day tips

    • Arrive early; offices fill up and queues close by early afternoon.
    • Dress neatly and bring photocopies, pen, water and cash. Wear closed shoes for the driving test.
    • Bring glasses or lenses if you need them to drive.
    • For the theory test, read each question fully. Many wrong answers look right at a glance.
    • On the practical, go slowly. Smooth beats fast. Adjust seat and mirrors before you start, and use your handbrake on the slope.
    • On the practical, go slowly, keep your eyes up and look where you want to go, not at the cone. Wear long trousers, closed shoes and gloves.
    • Do a few mock exams the day before and review mistakes.