How to get a Thai driving license

An English overview for drivers in Thailand who need to prepare documents, training, booking, and the Thai DLT theory exam.

Getting your first Thai driving licence involves a series of steps that vary depending on whether you train through an approved driving school or prepare on your own. The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has standardised the process so that every applicant meets the same benchmarks.

Two pathways to choose from

Driving school route

Enrol at a DLT-certified driving school. The school handles your practical driving lessons, theory training, and both the written and driving tests. Once you pass, the school issues a certificate that you take to a DLT office to receive your licence.

Self-study route

Learn on your own by studying theory and practising driving privately. When ready, book a training and test appointment at a DLT office through the Smart Queue app. You will complete the mandatory training hours and take the exams at the DLT office.

Step-by-step process

Study the DLT e-Book: Read the official training manual published by the Department of Land Transport. It covers all the theory topics you will be tested on.
Book your appointment: Use the DLT Smart Queue mobile app (available on iOS and Android). Select "งานใบอนุญาต" (licence work) and pick a convenient date and DLT office location.
Attend the 5-hour training: Report to the DLT office on your booked date. All first-time applicants must complete a mandatory 5-hour training session covering traffic law, safe driving, and road etiquette.
Sit the written E-exam: Take the computer-based theory test. You must score at least 45 out of 50 to pass.
Take the driving test: Demonstrate your practical driving skills on the DLT test course including parking, reversing, and road-driving manoeuvres.
Collect your Smart Card: Once you pass both tests, pay the fee and receive your temporary licence smart card. Register it on the DLT QR License app and the ขับดี app for digital access.

Licence categories

Personal car licence

Minimum age: 18 years
Documents: National ID card, medical certificate issued within the last month
Fee: 5฿ (application) + 200฿ (temporary licence)

Motorcycle licence (≤110cc)

Minimum age: 15 years
Documents: National ID card, medical certificate issued within the last month
Fee: 5฿ (application) + 100฿ (temporary licence)

Public transport licence

Minimum age: 22 years (car), 20 years (motorcycle)
Requirement: Must have held a personal licence for at least 1 year
Fee: 5฿ + 300฿ (car public), 5฿ + 150฿ (motorcycle public)

Eligibility requirements

You must not be physically disabled to the degree that it prevents safe driving.
You must not have a medical condition that poses a danger while operating a vehicle.
You must be of sound mental health with no condition that impairs your judgement.
Your driving privileges must not be currently suspended or revoked.

Practical tips before you go

Prepare all documents in advance. Double-check your medical certificate date — it must be less than one month old on the day of your appointment.
Study theory questions thoroughly. Use this site's flashcards and category-based question bank to familiarise yourself with DLT-style questions, road signs, and right-of-way rules.
Practise basic driving skills. If you are on the self-study route, spend time on parking, three-point turns, and smooth gear changes before your test date.