How Long Is a Driver’s License Valid, and What Should You Do When It Expires?

Each type of driver’s license has a different validity period. If your license is close to its expiration date, check the date and prepare for renewal in advance. This will help you continue driving legally and avoid extra renewal steps.

1. Temporary Driver’s License – Valid for 2 Years

First-time applicants for a private car or motorcycle driver’s license will receive a temporary driver’s license valid for 2 years.

After you hold the license for the required period and meet the necessary qualifications, you can upgrade it to a private driver’s license.

2. Private Driver’s License – Valid for 5 Years

A private car or motorcycle driver’s license is generally valid for 5 years. You can renew it according to the rules of the Department of Land Transport.

3. Public Vehicle Driver’s License – Valid for 3 Years

A driver’s license for a public car, public three-wheeled vehicle, or public motorcycle is valid for 3 years.

What Should You Do If Your Driver’s License Has Expired?

The renewal process depends on the type of driver’s license and how long it has been expired.

Private Driver’s License

Expired for no more than 1 year
You can follow the normal renewal process without taking the written or driving test again.

Expired for more than 1 year but no more than 3 years
You need to take the written test again.

Expired for more than 3 years
You need to take both the written test and the driving test again.

Public Vehicle Driver’s License

Expired for no more than 1 year
You need to complete the required training, take a physical fitness test, and undergo a criminal background check.

Expired for more than 1 year but no more than 3 years
In addition to the required training and physical fitness test, you need to take the written test and undergo a criminal background check.

Expired for more than 3 years
You need to complete the required training, take a physical fitness test, pass both the written and driving tests, and undergo a criminal background check.

How Many Months in Advance Can You Renew Your Driver’s License?

You do not need to wait until your driver’s license expires. You can apply for renewal before the expiration date.

• Private Driver’s License: You can apply for renewal up to 6 months before the expiration date.
• Public car, public three-wheeled vehicle, and public motorcycle driver’s licenses: You can also apply for renewal up to 6 months before the expiration date.

Check the expiration date on your driver’s license regularly and plan your renewal in advance. Early preparation can help you avoid an expired license and additional renewal requirements.

Reference information: Department of Land Transport and the Government Contact Center website (info.go.th).