Southeast Asia forum

international drivers license

dnuts

longtail driver
Posts: 5

I'm going to be in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia this summer and was planning on renting scooters at various points along the way. I was assuming my Canadian driver's license would be fine but I just thought I'd ask to be sure an International Drivers License wouldn't be neccessary.

#1 Posted: 11/4/2006 - 03:14
somtam2000

admin
mahout
Posts: 5884
Located in:

Private message

Theoretically you require an international driver's license -- if it is straightforward to get one before you leave, well why not. Personally I've done some 10,000km worth of scooter trips in Thailand and have never been asked for any kind of license, likewise shops hiring bikes have never once asked me for a license -- of any kind.

If you have an accident I think that is when you'll suddenly need one.

#2 Posted: 11/4/2006 - 09:52

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dnuts

longtail driver
Posts: 5

Thanks for the tip. That's what I figured.

#3 Posted: 11/4/2006 - 12:47
tsargood

beach masseuse
Posts: 87

I had the same experience all over Asia, no license needed I mean. Until I got to Bali, I had the front wheel of my scoota over the white line at the traffic lights only about 4 inches, however this was enough to catch the eye of the local police who then wanted to see my international License. I had only my Australian License. To cut a long story short, it ended up with me paying a small bribe.or a giving him a a 'gift', as he said. After that he took off the hand cuffs and let me ride away on my scoota. I think he needed the money more than me and would have found a reason to get some from me what ever the case. oh well. life goes on, happy travels!

#4 Posted: 11/4/2006 - 17:05

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Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail..............Buddha