- Do I need to have an international driver’s license?
- I’m seeing a lot of people saying that if I haven’t rode a motorcycle before I should avoid it because the roads are dangerous. Do you think this is the case in Koh Lanta?
Thank you so much in advance!
We rode a scooter from Phuket to Phang Na to Koh Samui not a problem anywhere. It’s a fantastic way to get around & see the country.
i wouldnt suggest it. every non thai person i saw riding had huge scrapes on their arms and legs from wiping out. its no joke on tjose bikes, its like a free for all. if they can fit, they just go arlund u from any angle lol
Utter rubbish obviously you don’t live in Thailand and have no local knowledge. It’s like anything if you are an idiot you are looking for trouble and an inexperienced rider should not start riding a scooter on the island first time. We saw an Asia man riding a scooter he had no idea whatsoever they are the riders who need to ride on the flat in Pattaya before taking on the island if you can ride around Pattaya at least it gets the person sone experience
Yes you need an international driving license. I ve been to ko lantha and plenty of pot holes in the street. It was dangerous even to drive an electric bike.
If you’ve never ridden before i seriously wouldn’t try it in Thailand
Easy to rent no problem
International licence passeport and helmet
Stop believing all those people afraid about renting a motorbike there
Just take picture before renting and don’t drink too much drive with care
You don’t need an international drivers license just show your passport pay some money and go but I would not do it if you’ve never ridden, I repeat if you’ve never ridden don’t do it?
As for needing an international licence.I have in the past rented without one. Only warning I will give you is that every time I’ve been in Thailand at one point or another I was in a taxi that hit someone on a scooter. Most if not every time the driver of the scooter was the one who caused the accident.
You need a motorcycle licence as well as an international drivers permit
Koh lanta is quiet enough to ride around with no experience. Just remember to drive slow in the rain. I did not have a idp, got stopped by the police and got a ticket for lack of a helmet. I drove a scooter everywhere in Thailand, except Bangkok. No issues.
I’ve carried a Idp for years in Thailand and never been asked for one with many stops, my Australian licence has been enough. A young motorcycle rider hit me in September while driving both insurance and police involved never asked for Idp. But I carry one anyway.
As others have said above check the grey area on your travel insurance. Your generally not covered if you dont have a bike licence from your home country.
If you have not ridden before maybe dont do it!
Have fun ??❤??
Your travel insurance will be void if you don’t get an international licence.
It’s scary enough as a pedestrian here!!
Can you easily rent a scooter without a license? Of course.
If you have an accident and are hurt will any insurance coverage be null and void, leaving you to cover your own hospital expenses? Of course.
If you destroy the bike will you have to pay the owner to repair or replace out of your own pocket? Of course.
And finally, if you harm someone else while driving without a license, will the charges be far more serious? Of course.
Riding a motorbike is a fantastic way to get the freedom to explore without relying on taxis and is much cheaper.
My advice is to get your motorbike license before you come. Practice at home or get training if you can. Get an IDP. (International driving permit). Then you won’t get fined and also will be covered by your travel insurance. Drive slow. In the rain the roads are very slippery. Assume everyone cannot see you and is trying to kill you lol. Then you’ll be fine ? if you can ride a bicycle then you can ride one of these little scooters.
Watch out for pedestrians. Thai’s are more aware of motos, foreign tourists not.
Scooters are definitely the cheapest option and can be fun for short rides, but I’d recommend them only if you’re really comfortable riding one. Some roads in Koh Lanta are still quite rough—hilly, bumpy, or with potholes—especially in less developed areas. It can be tricky and even dangerous if you’re not used to it.
Also, an international driving license is required for both scooters and cars. Every rental shop will ask for it.
If you’re traveling with others, carrying luggage, or just want to stay safe and comfortable, renting a car is a much better choice. It’s easier, safer, and more relaxing—especially if you’re exploring the island for a few days or more.
If you need help with car or scooter rental, feel free to contact Rent A Car Koh Lanta:
WhatsApp: +66 938 648 086
Website: rentacarkohlanta.com
Facebook: facebook.com/rentacarkohlanta
Happy travels.
Scooters are definitely the cheapest option and can be fun for short rides, but I’d recommend them only if you’re really comfortable riding one. Some roads in Koh Lanta are still quite rough—hilly, bumpy, or with potholes—especially in less developed areas. It can be tricky and even dangerous if you’re not used to it.
Also, an international driving license is required for both scooters and cars. Every rental shop will ask for it.
If you’re traveling with others, carrying luggage, or just want to stay safe and comfortable, renting a car is a much better choice. It’s easier, safer, and more relaxing—especially if you’re exploring the island for a few days or more.
If you need help with car or scooter rental, feel free to contact Rent A Car Koh Lanta:
WhatsApp: +66 938 648 086
Website: rentacarkohlanta.com
Facebook: facebook.com/rentacarkohlanta
Happy travels.