Driver’s licenses offer a sense of freedom for many foreigners in Thailand. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of foreigners’ trust and unfamiliarity with Thai driving laws, offering to “assist” with the application process.
Scammers target foreigners unfamiliar with Thai administrative processes and laws, and assure them that they can help obtain a government-issued driving permit. These criminals advertise their fraudulent services on internet platforms such as social media sites and messaging apps, claiming to procure valid driver’s licenses for foreigners in Thailand. They charge victims for these services but ultimately provide either fake documents or nothing at all.
Warning Signs of a Driver’s License Scam
The following interactions are red flags that are signs of a driving license scam in Thailand:
Unsolicited Contact: Scammers may approach or message you to strike up a conversation and advertise their “services.
Claims of “Connections”: Criminals often claim that they have powerful contacts within the Thai government that can approve or expedite your case.
Requests Minimal Information: Fake agents may claim to be able to handle your application without requiring essential documents or details.
Avoids Answering Questions: If your agent provides vague or evasive responses, fails to return calls or emails, and lacks transparency about the process, they are likely trying to scam you.
Sense of Urgency: Scammers will attempt to pressure you into making quick decisions, so you don’t have time to think things through. They may try to persuade you with claims of limited-time offers or imminent deadlines.
Suspiciously Low Prices: It’s a red flag if someone quotes unreasonably low fees or promises significant discounts on government services.
Continual Requests for Payment: Driver’s license scammers demand full or partial payment in advance, but continue to make additional requests for payment under various pretenses, such as processing fees or bribes.
Unrealistic Promises: If your agent guarantees quick approvals or improbable legal loopholes, they are probably scamming you.
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Do your due diligence and use official government channels to verify all information.
How to Obtain a Real Thai Driver’s License as a Foreigner
All applications for Thai driver’s licenses must be submitted in person at a Department of Land Transport office. Applicants must provide a medical certificate and proof of Thai residency, such as a work permit or residence certificate. Applicants must also:
- Pass a physical fitness evaluation
- Watch an educational driving video
- Have their photo taken
Additionally, those without a valid foreign driver’s license will need to pass both a written and practical driving test.
What to Do if You’re the Victim of a Driver’s License Scam
If you’ve paid a scammer for a fake license, or a document you never received, you can take the following steps to report the scammer and prevent others from falling victim:
- Gather Evidence: Collect evidence of the fraud including any contracts, bank transfer records, and communications between you and the scammer(s).
- Contact Your Bank: If you paid the scammer with a credit card or bank transfer, contact the company to report the transaction. The bank can ensure that no further transfers are made to the scammer and may be able to provide a chargeback to your account.
- Report to the Authorities: Contact the Tourist Police hotline at 1155 and the Department of Land Transport’s complaint department at 1584 to inform them of the driver’s license scam. They could be able to track down the criminals and prevent future fraud.
If you face legal consequences because you presented a fake driver’s license to the Thai police, contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Thailand. They can advise you on your rights and potential defenses to help you move forward from the scam.
Leave a Comment