What kind of license do I need to drive a car in Phuket?
For short stays, an international driving license or a license to drive from your own country is at least required from most reputable car hire agencies. Whilst you can readily rent vehicles from private agencies without having to show any license at all, you will not be covered by insurance if you are involved in a traffic accident, and can be fined for driving without one if pulled over by local police. For stays of more than 3 months and particularly if you drive a private car, then a Thai driver s license is necessary. Many people don t realize this fact until it s too late and their insurance company refuses to pay on the basis of not having the correct license (and yes, you can apply for and obtain insurance coverage without being informed of this minor detail).
