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Thrifty · Thailand

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Thailand?

Yes, bring one
Thailand legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
Get my permit for Thailand All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Thailand
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theLeft

Thrifty in Thailand: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.

Thailand requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP; the printed booklet is typically required at checkpoints.

In Thailand specifically, thailand legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Police checkpoints and rental desks expect the printed IDP, not just digital.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Thailand desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Thailand drives on the left, uses the THB, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.

What to bring to the Thrifty counter in Thailand

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the THB deposit; Thailand drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Thailand Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the left.
  • Helmets mandatory for motorcycles — strictly checked.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • International licence + passport carried at all times.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Thailand?
Thailand legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in Thailand?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Thailand drives on the left and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in Thailand