Is it safe to drive? What are the roads like? Which side do they drive on?

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Driving a car or motorcycle in Thailand:

Traffic in Thailand drives on the left side of the road.

Most drivers are well mannered, almost polite, be it up to a certain level. You will hardly ever hear a car honking and anger is never displayed. Despite this, traffic is rather hectic in and around busy Bangkok where calm driving is not really appreciated.

On many rural roads or even in Bangkok's small alleys, you will find motorcycles, cars and occasionally your 12 wheel trucks maneuvering against (one way) traffic. This situation is complicated by the fact that many of Bangkok's roads change their one-way direction at certain hours of the day.

Driving around Thailand's country side at night is considered to be extremely hazardous, especially on holidays and long weekends. Many cars have broken, or no lights at all and public busses like to race one another through steep hills and around dangerous curves, supposedly just to stay awake.

Thai Driver's License
If you would like to apply for a Thai Driver's License you need to provide the following documents:

Passport with Non-immigrant Visa
Present a letter of current residence certified by an Embassy of your Country.
Medical Certificate
2 Photos, 1 X 1 Inch
* International Driver's License or Local Driving License
Fee: Car 105 Baht, Motorcycle 55 Baht
* Not Required

Hours of Operation: M - F, 8:30AM - 12:00AM, 1:00PM - 4:30PM Applications will be accepted daily until 3:30PM

Tel: 272-3615, 272-5416, 272-5322


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International Driver's License
If you would like to apply for an International Driver's License you have to provide the following documents:

Passport with Non-immigrant Visa
Present a letter of current residence certified by an Embassy of your Country.

* Thai Driver's License (Private Motor Car). If you don't have a Thai Driver's license please refer to the previous instructions on getting a Thai driver's license.
2 Photos, 2 X 2 Inches
Fee 505 Baht
* Not Required

Hours of Operation: M - F, 8:30AM - 12:00AM, 1:00PM - 4:30PM Applications will be accepted daily until 3:30PM

Tel: 0272-3615, 0272-5416, 0272-5322