Dealing with any government agency, no matter what country, requires patience. There are certain routines and procedures which must be followed
Not speaking the language is of course disadvantageous, but with the right attitude, and an understanding Thai friend, the mission can be completed.
My first visit to the drivers licensing office was as expected. We were given a list of documents required. Everything in duplicate, since I was applying for renewal of both a car and motorcycle license.
The requirement of a doctors note is a bit of a farce. I paid 60 baht for two doctors notes, indicating I am in good health. The note was signed by the receptionist, and the fact that I was standing seemed enough to certify my health. I'd been to that doctors office in the past, and I suppose you can say they had sufficient information about my health without an examination.
A document from the immigration office was also needed. This required a twenty minute waiting period while my files were being audited.
Back to the drivers testing office with all necessary documents submitted, the next step is watching a one hour traffic education video. There is both a Thai version and an English version of this film. I must admit, I did learn a few things from the film, but many times found it amusing comparing the rules on the film with actual every day experiences.
After the film was a color test and a reaction test. Explaining the procedure of the test was a bit difficult, but that was overcome with a bit of humor and the help of onlookers.
The final step is the photographing were I misunderstood instructions. The young lady motioned me to look down, which I misunderstood and slouched down. We both had a chuckle when I realized my mistake.
At times things seemed a bit unnerving to me, but every person along the process was pleasant, friendly and helpful.
A big sigh of relief when I finally had my licenses in my hand
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