Thais Urged to Apply Online for International Driving Licences Before Songkran
Thai tourists planning to travel abroad during the upcoming Songkran holidays are being encouraged to apply for their international driving licences online using the Pao Tang app from Krungthai Bank. The Land Transport Department (LTD) has advised Thai motorists to complete their applications ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience if they plan to drive while overseas.
Convenient 24/7 Application Process
The online application process for international driving licences is available 24/7 through the Pao Tang app, allowing applicants to apply anytime and from anywhere. Seksom Akkaraphan, Deputy of the LTD, emphasized that with a high number of travelers expected during the Songkran holidays, using the online system will help avoid last-minute rushes and delays.
Once an application is successfully processed, applicants will receive their international driving licences by mail, eliminating the need to visit LTD offices in person.
Fees and Exemptions
The issuance fee for an international driving licence is 505 baht, along with a 60 baht mailing fee. However, Krungthai Bank (KTB) is waiving bank fees for applications submitted through the Pao Tang app until the end of the year, providing additional savings for applicants.
How to Apply for an International Driving Licence
The online application service has been available since late last year. To apply via the Pao Tang app, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Upload a recent digital, full-frontal photo (maximum 5 MB) taken within the last six months.
- Have a passport with at least six months of validity.
- Hold a valid driving licence with at least three months of validity remaining.
- Select the relevant international road traffic convention for the destination country, either the:
- 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, or
- 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
Applicants will need to fill in their personal details, upload the required photo, provide their home address, and pay the applicable fees.
Top Provinces for Online Applications
According to the LTD, the top ten provinces with the highest number of international driving licence applications from December 13 to February 28 were:
- Bangkok – 9,878 applications
- Nonthaburi – 1,792 applications
- Samut Prakan – 1,262 applications
- Chonburi – 973 applications
- Pathum Thani – 913 applications
- Chiang Mai – 654 applications
- Rayong – 382 applications
- Phuket – 298 applications
- Nakhon Pathom – 279 applications
- Songkhla – 236 applications
Conclusion
By applying early through the Pao Tang app, Thai tourists can ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience during the busy Songkran holidays, avoiding last-minute arrangements and ensuring they have the necessary documentation to drive abroad.
