If you’re planning to explore Thailand by car — whether it’s driving along the coast of Phuket, visiting Chiang Mai’s mountains, or taking a Bangkok-to-Hua Hin road trip — it’s essential to know what documents you need before renting a vehicle. Understanding the car rental requirements in Phuket and across Thailand will save you time, avoid legal issues, and ensure a smooth start to your journey.
This guide explains everything you need to prepare, including driving license requirements, passport rules, and payment deposits.
1. Valid Driving License – The First and Most Important Requirement
When renting a car in Thailand, you must present a valid driving license. The rules differ for locals and foreigners:
For Thai Residents
- You can use your Thai driving license issued by the Department of Land Transport.
- The license must be valid (not expired).
- Some rental companies accept temporary Thai driving licenses, but check in advance.
For Foreign Tourists
- If your license is in English and issued by a country that has a driving agreement with Thailand, many car rental companies will accept it.
- However, the safest option is to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country license. This is especially important if your license is not in English or does not use the Roman alphabet (e.g., Japanese, Russian, Chinese).
💡 Tip: Even if a company accepts your home country license, police checkpoints in Thailand often ask for an IDP. Carrying both will help you avoid fines.
2. International Driving Permit (IDP) – Why You Should Have One
An International Driving Permit in Thailand (IDP in Thailand) is a translation of your original license into multiple languages and is recognized by local authorities.
- It is not a replacement for your original license — you must carry both.
- It’s valid for one year from the date of issue in most countries.
- You can get it from your country’s automobile association or authorized office before arriving in Thailand.
In Phuket and other tourist hubs, many visitors are stopped for random checks, especially around the airport and main roads. Having an IDP will make the process quick and easy.
3. Passport – Proof of Identity
All rental companies will require a passport as proof of identity. For foreign drivers, this means:
- Showing your original passport (copies are usually not accepted).
- The rental company may make a photocopy for their records.
- Your passport must be valid for the duration of your rental period.
In some cases, especially for high-value vehicles, the company may ask to keep your passport as a deposit. If you’re uncomfortable with this, you can request to leave a larger cash or credit card deposit instead.
4. Credit Card or Deposit for Security
Most car rental requirements in Phuket and other major cities include leaving a security deposit before you can take the car.
Credit Card Deposit
- This is the most common method.
- The rental company will place a temporary hold (pre-authorization) on your card for a set amount, usually between 5,000 – 15,000 THB, depending on the car type.
- The hold is released after you return the car in good condition.
Cash Deposit
- Accepted by some local rental companies, especially smaller operators.
- Usually between 5,000 – 15,000 THB.
- Always get a receipt for the deposit.
💡 Tip: Using a credit card is safer, as you won’t have to carry large amounts of cash and you’ll have better proof of payment.
5. Additional Requirements You Should Know
While the four documents above are the essentials, some companies may have extra requirements:
- Age Limit: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
- Second Driver Fee: If more than one person will be driving, the additional driver must also show their license and may have to pay a small daily fee. Most of the car rental companies provide free of charge for having a second driver.
- Insurance Agreement: You will need to sign an insurance waiver or select your insurance coverage before driving away.
6. Quick Checklist for Renting a Car in Thailand
Before heading to the rental counter, make sure you have:
✅ Valid Thai driving license OR home country license + IDP in Thailand
✅ Original passport
✅ Credit card (or cash deposit if accepted)
✅ Rental confirmation if you booked online (e.g., via Rent Connected)
7. Final Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience
- Book in advance to secure the best rates and ensure your preferred pick-up location.
- Read the rental agreement carefully before signing.
- Take photos of the car before leaving the lot to avoid disputes over damage.
- Keep your documents in the car (especially your license and IDP) in case you’re stopped at a checkpoint.
In summary:
To rent a car in Thailand, you’ll need a valid driving license, possibly an International Driving Permit, your passport, and a deposit (credit card or cash). Knowing the car rental requirements in Phuket and other regions will save you from unnecessary delays and ensure a stress-free start to your trip.
If you’re ready to explore Thailand at your own pace, you can compare prices, choose your preferred pick-up spot, and book instantly at Rent Connected — making your trip smoother from the moment you arrive.