A 5yr licence will only be issued to a foreigner if you have a Non-Immigrant visa in your passport, or hold a Residence Permit. A 1yr licence is issued using any kind of visa or entry permit, and may be renewed (for 1 year) if necessary.
Documents needed for renewal of Thai driving license:
1. Passport + 1 signed copy of each - (a) 'face' page, ( non-immigration visa page, © current TM6 card & latest entry stamp page.
2. Photos are no longer required as they use digital photo images engraved on a hard 'credit-card' style permit. Ladies - please note that you must have your shoulders covered for official photos.
3. Letter of 'Fit-to-drive' from Doctor - 200 baht (must be less than 30 days old).
4. 1 residence certificate from Pattaya Immigration (dated within 30 days of renewal).
5. Money 665 (500+55) baht for car - 365 baht for motor-cycle.
6. Your old Thai driving license(s).
(A 'TM6 card' refers to the Immigration Departure card attached to your passport during your stay in Thailand. It has a reference number (TM6) that tells where & when you entered Thailand)
(The letter of 'Fit-to-drive' from a Doctor is again required)
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Whatever the official of the day decides, I like to take along the stated requirements so as not to be out there wanting.
Pattaya Expats Club...