🇹🇭 Do you need an IDP to drive in Thailand?

IDP required· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 1 May 2026

Short answer

Driving in Thailand: the rule explained

Thailand legally requires an IDP (1949 or 1968 convention, depending on your license country) for tourists driving cars or motorbikes. Enforcement varies, but insurance is typically void without one. A Thai translation companion helps at police checkpoints.

Renting a car in Thailand

Car rental agencies usually ask for the IDP; scooter shops often don't — but riding without the correct license category plus IDP voids travel insurance and risks fines.

Motorcycles & scooters: You need a motorcycle category on your home license AND on the IDP — a car-only license does not cover scooters of any size.

What to carry when driving in Thailand

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
IDP covering the right vehicle category
Check your travel insurance's driving clause

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Thailand: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Thailand?

Yes — to drive in Thailand you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself. Thailand legally requires an IDP (1949 or 1968 convention, depending on your license country) for tourists driving cars or motorbikes. Enforcement varies, but insurance is typically void without one. A Thai translation companion helps at police checkpoints.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Thailand?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Thailand read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Thailand?

Car rental agencies usually ask for the IDP; scooter shops often don't — but riding without the correct license category plus IDP voids travel insurance and risks fines.

Which IDP convention does Thailand use?

Thailand recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.