Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by Kristin
With pristine beaches, jungle waterfalls and thousands of temples to explore, Thailand is a bucket-list destination for the adventurous traveler. It’s also a white-hot destination in 2025, thanks to its star turn as the setting for the third season of HBO’s “The White Lotus.” While the country boasts no shortage of tours, renting a car is the best way to travel this expansive and diverse Southeast Asian country at your leisure. Here’s what you should know about renting a car in Thailand.
Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Thailand
Book from home.
Don’t wait until you get off the plane to rent a vehicle. It will be cheaper to book your car before leaving home.
Ask AutoSlash for a Quote on a Cheap Car Rental
You need an International Driving Permit.
U.S. residents need to get an International Driving Permit to operate a vehicle in Thailand. This document is simply a translated version of your state-issued driver’s license and can be obtained from the AAA. While the IDP is easy to get stateside, it’s important to note that the process can take weeks if you are already abroad.
You’ll drive on the left.
Motorists drive on the left in Thailand, which can be a big change for drivers coming from the U.S. and Canada. Consider waiting a day after arrival before picking up your rental car so that you won’t be overly tired from the flight. Pay extra attention to traffic signs, signals and the flow of traffic.
Pay for the rental in Thai Baht.
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when driving a rental car in Thailand is choosing the option to pay in U.S. dollars instead of Thai baht. Paying in dollars will cost you more in the long run. Pay in the local currency to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion fees.
Be prepared for some chaos.
If you’ve never driven in Thailand before, be forewarned that the experience can be more freewheeling than you are likely used to. Heavy traffic, poorly-maintained roads, unexpected crossings by pedestrians and animals and unpredictable drivers can make for a stressful learning curve.
Be careful during the rainy season.
One hazard drivers face in Thailand is the rainy season, when heavy rains can cause flash floods and make driving dangerous. The length and time of the monsoon season depends on the specific year and area of Thailand you are heading to, but in general the Thai rainy season typically runs from May through October. Take any warnings about heavy rains seriously and avoid driving in inclement weather, as conditions can change rapidly.
Inspect the car before and after renting.
Make sure to protect yourself from potential false damage claims by carefully look over your car before driving away. Follow this to-do-list and document every nick, scratch or dent. Your smartphone will come in handy for taking photos of any imperfections to ensure you won’t have to pay for them later.
Let AutoSlash Track Your Car Rental for Price Drops
Double check your insurance coverage.
Before you leave for Thailand, contact your credit card company to see what collision coverage, if any, it offers on car rentals abroad. The minimum insurance required for car rentals in Thailand is Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL). This insurance covers bodily injury and death, but not property damage.
Related:
