Driving in Thailand — International Driving Permit guide
Thailand flag

Conducir en Thailand

Land of smiles with temples, beaches, and islands. Drive on the left from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Foto: Mathew Schwartz / Unsplash

Datos rápidos

IDP Status
Permiso internacional requerido
Lado de conducción
Izquierda

Límites de velocidad

50
Urbano
50 km/h
90
Rural
90 km/h
120
Autopista
120 km/h

Guía de viaje del país

Thailand, the Land of Smiles, offers tropical beaches, ornate temples, excellent food, and warm hospitality that has made it Southeast Asia's most popular destination. This kingdom provides diverse experiences from bustling Bangkok to peaceful islands.

Bangkok overwhelms and delights with gilded temples (Wat Pho's Reclining Buddha, Wat Arun, the Grand Palace), floating markets, vibrant street food, and legendary nightlife. The chaos and charm coexist in this river city of over 10 million people.

Northern Thailand around Chiang Mai offers temple-filled old city, hill tribe encounters, elephant sanctuaries, and cooler mountain climate. The Mae Hong Son loop provides adventure driving through mountains and traditional villages.

The islands and beaches spread across both coasts. Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui provide developed resort experiences, while Koh Lanta, Koh Tao, and the Andaman islands offer more relaxed atmospheres. Diving and snorkeling reach world-class levels.

Thai food alone justifies visiting—from street stalls to fine dining, the balance of spicy, sour, sweet, and salty creates addictive flavors. Each region offers specialties from northern khao soi to southern curries.

Driving in Thailand is on the left. Bangkok traffic is notoriously difficult—most visitors use the excellent Skytrain and Metro. Upcountry roads are generally good, though driving standards can be challenging. An International Driving Permit is required for car rentals.

Principales destinos

1
Bangkok to Chiang Mai
2
Phuket Island
3
Mae Hong Son Loop
4
Khao Yai

Consejos de conducción

Lleva siempre tu permiso internacional junto con tu licencia nacional
Familiarízate con las normas locales de tráfico
Comprueba los requisitos de seguro al alquilar un coche
Respeta los límites de velocidad locales

Preguntas frecuentes

Do I need an IDP to drive in Thailand?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Thailand. The IDP works alongside your national driving license.

Which side of the road do they drive on in Thailand?

In Thailand, traffic drives on the left side of the road.

What are the speed limits in Thailand?

Speed limits in Thailand: urban areas — 50 km/h, rural roads — 90 km/h, highways — 120 km/h.

How do I get an IDP for Thailand?

You can get your IDP online through our website in just a few minutes. You'll need a photo and your national driving license details.

¿Listo para viajar a Thailand?

Get your International Driving Permit in minutes and start exploring!

Solicitar ahora

Información útil

Código de paísTH
Lado de conducciónIzquierda
Estado IDPRequired
Volver a las guías