Driving in Thailand

International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians.

Yes — Australians need an International Driving Permit for Thailand.

Thailand accepts the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP issued in Australia. For scooters you also need a motorcycle class on your Australian licence — police checkpoints in Phuket, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui specifically look for it.

Drives on the leftSame as Australia
Minimum age 18For most hire companies
$10 – $18 scooter, $30 – $55 carTypical daily hire
IDP required1949 Geneva Convention

What Australian drivers need to know

  • Motorcycle accidents are the number one cause of serious injury and insurance claims for Australians in Thailand.
  • Traffic rules are treated as suggestions in Bangkok — driving yourself in the city is not recommended.
  • Grab (the local rideshare app) is cheap, metered and much safer than negotiating with tuk-tuks.
  • Helmet laws are enforced with on-the-spot fines.

How to get an International Driving Permit in Australia

Only the state and territory motoring clubs affiliated with the Australian Automobile Association can issue one — NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT and AANT. It costs around $49, you don't need to be a member, and it's valid for 12 months.

You cannot get one once you have left Australia. Apply at least two weeks before you fly.

Read the full IDP guide

Insurance warning. Australian travel insurance policies exclude claims from driving or riding without a valid licence for that vehicle in that country. A car licence does not cover a scooter — hiring one in Thailand without a motorcycle class on your Australian licence means an accident is entirely uninsured.

More Thailand essentials

Entry requirements Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders. Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Travel essentials Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.

Thailand driving FAQs

Can I ride a scooter in Thailand on my Australian licence?

Only with a motorcycle class on your Australian licence plus a 1949 Geneva Convention International Driving Permit obtained in Australia. Without both you're riding illegally, and virtually every Australian travel insurance policy will decline a resulting claim.

Save your trip

Create a free account to save your checklist, keep your comparisons and get told when entry rules change for your destination.

Continue with Google Continue with Apple
or

By continuing you agree to our terms and privacy policy.