Driver's Licences Go Hi-Tech, Beginning with Metro Bangkok

Note from GB: The written test referred to in the following article usually is not administered to "farang" applying for driver's licenses if they have an International Driving Permit and their own local driver's license in hand when applying for the Thai driver's license.

BANGKOK, Nov 5 (TNA)

Thailand's Land Transport Department will submit a proposal for issuing electronic driving licenses to motorists in Bangkok and outlying areas to Transport Minister Admiral Thira Haocharoen for his consideration next week, a senior ministry official said Sunday.

Piyapan Champasut, director-general of the department, said both the study and equipment necessary for producing the electronic driving licenses were prepared during the ousted government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

If approved by the minister, the licenses would be first used in Bangkok and neighboring provinces and could be issued nationwide in 2007, Mr. Piyapan said. Motorists will have to pay an extra fee of Bt100 for their photos on the license.

The main advantage of the new driving license is that its magnetic bar could store the holder's personal data as well as a record of his traffic violations, he said.

Starting from November 13, the department will introduce a computer-based written test for applicants seeking driving licenses nationwide. Applicants will know immediately after the test whether they have passed or failed their written examination.

(TNA) - E 111