Public transport can be unreliable in various parts of Thailand and moving around does require having a car. In Thailand, street signs are additionally communicated in both English and Thai.
If you're from a Commonwealth country, you'll be acquainted with driving on the left-hand-side. Assuming you're from the USA, Germany, Switzerland, or China, this will be a significant test for you. But with moving, relocating and taking that leap forward to the Land of Smiles, how to you plan around getting a car and all the intense process with getting the formalities sorted?
The Car Buying Process in Thailand
Yes, Thailand is an affordable place in the world to relocate to. The rent, the food, what’s not to take up as an inexpensive bet? Well, cars! They are all imported models and hence aren’t as cheap as one might think. You have two options to consider first out. Are you looking for a new or a used car? Second-hand options in Thailand are popular and many sell parts of their used car to finance a brand-new car.
If you are considering a brand-new car in Thailand, here are the options you can start looking at car dealers. This is the most reassuring option – especially as an expat. An official car dealership gives a good service and probably more legal assistance in case of any issues. They provide warranties, after-service care and have promotions as well.
Some world-popular dealerships in Thailand are: Toyota Thailand, Siam Motor World, Mitsubishi Motors, Lexus Thailand, and Ford Sales & Service (Thailand) Co. Ltd.
There is also a famous expo that’s held annually in Thailand where locals procure their cars.
In Thailand, motor vehicles hold their value surprisingly well. So, it might not be a bad idea to go after a used car. There are auctions that happen fortnightly across popular spots in the country for instance on Saturdays or Sundays at Big C in Pattaya Tai. There are some private listings on social platforms too you may consider.
Regardless, as an expat, there are 2 documents you need for a car purchase:
- Passport with the current Visa stamp
- Certificate of Residence from the Thai Immigration Office
Costs Associated with Car Ownership in Thailand
As part of the initial registration process you will pay a tax that depends on the make and model of your vehicle. In exchange, you receive a sticker as proof of your payment on your vehicle.
- Compulsory Motor Insurance (CMI) aka the Por Ro Bo
CMI It is the most basic prerequisite you require in Thailand. It gives limited cover for clinical costs and death covers following an accident. Yet, it doesn't pay for vehicle damages. Additional car insurance is encouraged for additional peace of mind.
- Additional Car insurance: Class 1, Class 2+, 3+ or Class 3
- Maintenance Costs
When touring Thailand, you’ll always notice several garages and locals working on cars along the roads. The car maintenance industry in the country is sprawling and if you need a tune up or have something major to fix, it is often where you find car servicing.
- Red License Plate for the first 30 days of new cars only
Currently, new vehicles can be driven for up to 30 days with temporary red plates that allows these cars to be driven only in the daylight, before 6 pm, while their permanent plates are being registered. As from June 2021, it will be illegal to drive with a red plate past the 30 days allowance.
From an International Driving Permit to a Thai Driving License
Driving in Thailand should be possible if you hold a legitimate driver's permit in English from your native country. However, as an expat, despite having an international driving license, it is always better to have a local one. This makes the acquisition of local insurance and protection much easier. You can do so at the Department of Land Transport where you have to bring a signed copy of your passport as well as a medical certificate and resident certificate. The main bureaus are found in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and other prominent regions of the Kingdom. As per the Traffic Act of Thailand, drivers who can get a driver's permit should be in any event 18 years of age (or 15 years for cruisers).
It should take a single day to obtain a Thai driving permit. It is a good idea to obtain both a motorcycle and a car license at the same time. It saves you the time to apply again some other time for an upgrade. The advantage to a Thai driving license is that you can use it as a local driving permit in ASEAN countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
In case of a Car Accident
By measure of safe practice, in case of an accident, remain calm and do not panic. Remember this number if there is personal injury: Call 1554 for an ambulance or 191 for police assistance.
Following the international norm, make sure to take the Vehicle Registration Numbers of all parties involved as well as their names, address, national identity number as well as the contact details of their insurer.
A similar guide for car ownership in Singapore as an expat is coming soon. In the meantime, check out the running costs of car maintenance in Singapore here.
