Can I drive in Thailand with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
Yes. Smartraveller says: “To drive a car or motorcycle, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.” (Smartraveller advice for Thailand, checked on 17 October 2026).
Rules change, and car hire companies can ask for more than the law. We quote the official travel advice word for word, with its date; this is information, not legal advice. If you are unsure, ask the embassy of the country you are visiting, your car hire company or your travel insurer before you travel.
What the official source says
Smartraveller advice for Thailand: “Local travel” › “Driving permits”
To drive a car or motorcycle, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using. Australian digital driver's licences may not be accepted. If you drive without the correct licence, you could be arrested or jailed.
To drive a motorbike, you'll need a valid motorcycle licence. Some rental companies will tell you otherwise.
Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence. In the event of an accident, you may not be covered under insurance.
The Department of Land Transport issues Thai driver’s licences. Contact them to confirm:
- your eligibility
- what documents you need to apply
Source: Smartraveller: Thailand, page updated 15 October 2026, “still current at” 18 October 2026 (Australian time), checked on 17 October 2026. Quoted word for word; we show only the sentences about driving licences and permits.
What to bring and where to get an IDP
Smartraveller says (in its advice for Vietnam):
Fraudulent websites may claim to issue valid IDPs.
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.
Source: Smartraveller: Vietnam, checked on 17 October 2026.
Hire a car in Thailand
IDP needed in Thailand: the official advice quoted above says you need an international driving permit to drive there with an Australian licence. Check the licence and IDP rules above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
Hiring a car in Thailand? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars.
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Other licences in Thailand
| Licence | In Thailand | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | IDP needed | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Thailand
- British passport: Thailand entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Thailand
- Australian passport: Thailand
- Italian citizens: Thailandia
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Thailand with an Australian driver's licence?
Yes. Smartraveller says: “To drive a car or motorcycle, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.” (Smartraveller advice for Thailand, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Thailand with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “To drive a car or motorcycle, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Thailand?
The Smartraveller advice for Thailand does not say which convention (1926, 1949 or 1968) the permit must follow.
Where do I get an international driving permit in Australia?
Smartraveller says: “The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of Smartraveller, read on 17 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
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