Thinking of getting your own set of wheels in Thailand? Whether you’re tired of negotiating tuk-tuk fares or simply want the freedom to explore at your own pace, buying a used car or motorbike can be a smart move. But as a foreigner, the process comes with a few twists and turns—some bureaucratic, others cultural.
This guide breaks it all down clearly: where to find the best deals, what paperwork you need, how to avoid common scams, and how to legally transfer ownership. With the right preparation, buying used in Thailand can be surprisingly straightforward and help you ride off with confidence.
Where to Find Used Cars or Motorbikes in Thailand
Thailand has a large and active secondhand vehicle market, but not all sources are created equal. Where you look often depends on your budget, your comfort with Thai language, and how much effort you’re willing to put into the search.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common places to buy used vehicles:
Online Marketplaces
Online listings are the easiest place to start—whether you’re just browsing or ready to buy.
- Kaidee (www.kaidee.com) – Thailand’s biggest online classifieds platform. You’ll find everything from cheap scooters to luxury cars. Listings are mostly in Thai, but Google Translate can help.
- One2Car (www.one2car.com) – More focused on cars than bikes. Includes dealership listings with clear pricing, photos, and sometimes warranties.
- Facebook Marketplace & Groups – Search by city or vehicle type. Look for expat groups like Buy and Sell Motorbikes Chiang Mai or Bangkok Used Cars. These are often good for negotiating directly with owners.
📌 Listings on expat platforms may be priced higher (“farang price”), but the process is often smoother due to English communication and proper documentation.
Dealerships (Used Car/Motorbike Lots)
Buying through a dealer can be more expensive, but offers some peace of mind:
- Many offer short warranties or servicing guarantees
- Paperwork is often handled for you, including the transfer at the DLT (Department of Land Transport)
- Some accept trade-ins or financing (though rarely for foreigners without work permits)
Just be aware that:
- Not all dealerships are honest—some specialize in polished-up wrecks or flood-damaged cars
- Motorbike shops may sell “gray imports” (unregistered or improperly registered bikes) which can’t be transferred to your name legally
Private Sellers
Buying from a private owner is often the cheapest route, but requires more caution.
- You’re responsible for verifying ownership documents and handling the transfer
- There’s usually no warranty or post-sale support
- Still, this route can lead to great deals—especially from other expats leaving the country
Common places to find private sellers include:
- Local bulletin boards (e.g. in cafes or supermarkets)
- Expat forums such as ASEAN NOW
- Personal networks and word of mouth
What to Watch Out For
Buying used in Thailand can be a great deal, but only if you avoid the common pitfalls. The secondhand market is full of decent, roadworthy vehicles, but it’s also got its fair share of lemons, inflated prices, and shady sellers. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Odometer Fraud
Clocking the mileage is still a thing in Thailand, especially with cars. Some sellers roll back the odometer to make the vehicle appear less used than it is. Always cross-check with the condition of the interior, service history, tire wear, and year of manufacture.
“Farang Price”
It’s no secret that some sellers quote higher prices when they see a foreign face. This can happen in both private sales and at dealerships. It helps to research typical prices beforehand and, if possible, bring a Thai-speaking friend or partner when negotiating.
Flood Damage & Rebuilt Wrecks
Vehicles from flood zones or past accidents may be patched up and put back on the market. Warning signs include rust under the seats, mildew smell, mismatched panels, or suspiciously new upholstery. These vehicles are often unreliable and difficult to insure.
Fake or Problematic Green Books
The green book is the official registration document. If the seller can’t show it—or the details don’t match the bike or car—it’s a red flag. Also be cautious of “gray market” imports with altered frame numbers or fake books. If the vehicle isn’t properly registered, you won’t be able to transfer it into your name legally.
Unpaid Fines or Loans
Outstanding traffic fines or financing loans attached to the vehicle can cause big problems during the ownership transfer process. Always check with the Department of Land Transport (DLT) during the transfer to ensure the vehicle is free of encumbrances.
Illegal Modifications
Loud exhausts, altered frames, oversized tires, or modified lights might look cool, but they can get you fined, rejected for insurance, or even cause legal trouble in the event of an accident. Stick to street-legal configurations unless you know what you’re getting into.
Inspection Tips Before You Buy
Don’t let a shiny paint job fool you. A thorough inspection is crucial before handing over any cash, especially if you’re buying from a private seller or small dealership. Even experienced buyers can miss hidden issues, and once the money’s exchanged, there’s rarely any going back.
Check the Green Book First
Before anything else, ask to see the green book (tabian rot) and make sure:
- The name listed matches the seller (or they can provide legal authorization to sell)
- The engine and chassis numbers match the vehicle
- There are no notes about liens, loans, or duplicate copies
📌 If the seller can’t produce the book or makes excuses, walk away.
Get a Mechanic or Use a Vehicle Inspection Service
For cars especially, hiring a third-party mechanic to inspect the vehicle is highly recommended. A full check usually costs around 1,000–2,000 THB and can reveal:
- Hidden engine issues
- Frame damage or signs of previous accidents
- Oil leaks, worn-out parts, or improper modifications
Some services even offer mobile inspections at the seller’s location.
📌 For motorbikes, many shops will do a basic check for a small fee. If you have mechanical knowledge, you can do it yourself—but don’t skip it entirely.
Test Drive Thoroughly
Don’t just ride around the block. Take at least 10–15 minutes to check:
- Brakes – smooth, not grinding or pulling
- Suspension – no clunking or bottoming out
- Clutch & gears – should shift cleanly
- Temperature – check for overheating after a few minutes
- Lights & electronics – test everything, including horn, indicators, and dashboard
Ask About Service History
It’s rare to get a complete logbook in Thailand, but some owners—especially other expats—may have receipts from oil changes, part replacements, or previous inspections. This adds peace of mind and shows the vehicle was cared for.
How to Transfer Ownership Legally
Once you’ve agreed on a price and done your checks, it’s time to make it official. In Thailand, transferring ownership is not just a handshake deal; it requires a visit to the Department of Land Transport (DLT) and some very specific paperwork.
Here’s how the process works:
Where to Transfer Ownership
Ownership transfers must be done in person at a local DLT office. You don’t have to go to the original registration province, but some DLT branches are faster and more foreigner-friendly than others.
📌 Try to go early in the morning. Many offices operate on a number queue system, and wait times can be long.
Documents You’ll Need (as the Buyer)
- Passport with valid visa
- Proof of address in Thailand, either:
- A residence certificate from immigration (valid for 30 days), or
- A yellow house book (tabien baan) if you have one
- Thai driver’s license (optional but helpful for ID matching)
- Signed copy of the green book (from the seller)
- Signed transfer form (Tor Ror. 9 or 10, available at DLT)
📌 If the seller is not present, you’ll also need a power of attorney (POA) and a signed copy of their Thai ID or passport.
Additional Notes for the Seller
The seller should also bring:
- Their Thai ID or passport (plus copies)
- The original green book
- A signed transfer form (and POA if not attending)
- Receipt or written agreement if you want extra documentation
📌 Some sellers (especially expats) will join you at the DLT to complete everything together. That’s the smoothest and safest way.
Fees and Processing Time
- Motorbike transfer: Usually around 150–500 THB
- Car transfer: Typically 300–1,000 THB
- Add ~100–200 THB if you change provinces or update address
📌 Transfers are usually completed on the same day. You’ll leave with a newly updated green book in your name and the confidence that you’re now the legal owner.
What If the Vehicle Is Registered in Another Province?
It’s very common to buy a car or motorbike in one province and register it in another—say, buying in Chiang Mai but living in Bangkok. This is allowed, but it does add one extra step:
- You’ll need to transfer the registration to your province of residence, which means the DLT will issue a new license plate number for your current location.
- This may take an extra day or two, depending on the local DLT office.
- You’ll pay a small re-registration fee, usually around 200–400 THB, plus the standard ownership transfer fees.
- Make sure your proof of address is valid for the province where you’re registering.
📌 If you’re buying from a different province but prefer to keep the original plate (for example, for sentimental or regional identity reasons), ask the DLT if it’s allowed. In most cases, however, they’ll require re-registration in your home province.
Insurance & Roadworthiness
Once the vehicle is in your name, there are two important things to get sorted before hitting the road: insurance and roadworthiness. In Thailand, insurance isn’t just recommended; it’s partly mandatory and can make all the difference if something goes wrong.
Mandatory Insurance (Por Ror Bor)
Every vehicle on the road in Thailand must have Compulsory Motor Insurance, known as Por Ror Bor (พ.ร.บ.). This is a basic personal injury insurance required by law.
- Covers medical expenses for bodily injury (not vehicle damage)
- Required to renew your annual registration and tax
- Usually costs:
- ~600–700 THB for motorbikes
- ~1,000–1,500 THB for cars
📌 You can buy it directly at the DLT office during registration, or from insurance agents and online providers.
Optional Coverage (Voluntary Insurance)
For real peace of mind, consider adding voluntary motor insurance—especially for cars or high-value motorbikes. Plans are categorized into:
- Type 1 – Full coverage (own damage, theft, fire, third-party, personal accident)
- Type 2+ / 3+ – Covers third-party damage + limited own damage (usually from collision)
- Type 3 – Third-party liability only
Foreigners can purchase insurance under their name as long as the vehicle is legally registered to them.
📌 Many expats go with Type 2+ or 3+ to balance coverage and affordability.
Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Not all vehicles require a roadworthiness test, but some do, based on age:
- Cars older than 7 years
- Motorbikes older than 5 years
- The inspection (called Tor Ror Or) checks brakes, lights, emissions, etc.
Cost is typically 150–300 THB, and it must be completed before renewing the registration and tax each year.
📌 Some DLT branches have testing stations on-site. Others require using a certified garage.
Costs & Budgeting
Buying a used car or motorbike in Thailand isn’t just about the sticker price. There are a few additional costs—some upfront, others recurring—that you’ll want to factor into your budget before making a decision.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Typical Price Ranges (Used Market)
These are ballpark figures based on condition, brand, and location. Prices may vary by region and negotiation skills.
Motorbikes
- Basic scooter (e.g., Honda Click, Yamaha Mio): 15,000–35,000 THB
- Mid-range manual or semi-auto (e.g., Honda Wave, PCX): 25,000–60,000 THB
- Premium or big bike (e.g., Kawasaki, Ducati): 70,000–300,000+ THB
Cars
- Older economy cars (10+ years): 100,000–250,000 THB
- Mid-range sedans or SUVs (5–10 years): 250,000–600,000 THB
- Luxury or imported cars (used): 700,000 THB and up
Additional One-Time Costs
- Ownership transfer fee: 150–1,000 THB depending on vehicle type and location
- Inspection fee (if required): 150–300 THB
- Mechanic check (optional but smart): 500–2,000 THB
- New license plates (if transferring provinces): 200–400 THB
- Insurance (Por Ror Bor): ~600–1,500 THB annually
Ongoing Annual Costs
- Vehicle tax (based on engine size & age):
- Motorbike: 100–1,000 THB/year
- Car: 1,000–7,000 THB/year
- Voluntary insurance (optional):
- Type 1: 10,000–25,000+ THB/year
- Type 2+/3+: 3,000–10,000 THB/year
- Maintenance & repairs: Highly variable, but budget 5,000–15,000 THB annually depending on age and usage
📌 Some sellers include road tax, Por Ror Bor, or even voluntary insurance in the sale—always ask what’s included.
Read my full guide to the Cost of Living in Thailand for a complete breakdown of monthly budgets for expats.
Can Foreigners Own Vehicles in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can legally own and register both cars and motorbikes in Thailand. There’s no citizenship requirement, but you do need to meet a few basic criteria.
What You Need to Register a Vehicle in Your Name
To register a vehicle (new or used) under your name, you’ll need:
- A valid passport with visa
- A proof of residence document (either):
- A residence certificate issued by Thai Immigration (valid for 30 days), or
- A yellow house book (Tabien Baan) if you’re listed as a long-term resident
- Thai ID photos (some DLT offices may ask)
- A Thai driver’s license is not required to own a vehicle, but may help in ID verification and insurance
📌 Once you have the required documents, the ownership process is the same as for Thai citizens.
Should I Register Under My Thai Partner’s Name?
Some foreigners choose to register the vehicle under a Thai partner’s name—either to avoid paperwork or because they don’t have the required residence certificate. While this is legal, it can be risky:
- You have no legal claim to the vehicle unless it’s clearly documented as a gift or held in trust
- Disputes over ownership can arise during relationship breakdowns or legal issues
- If you’re pulled over and the vehicle isn’t registered in your name, it could cause confusion
📌 Register the vehicle in your own name whenever possible. It’s safer and simpler in the long run.
That’s okay. For some expats, renting long-term or using local transport ends up being the smarter choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have a few things on your mind? Here are answers to some common questions that don’t always show up in the buying process but can make a big difference if you’re not prepared.
Do I need a Thai driver’s license to buy a vehicle in Thailand?
No. You can legally own a vehicle without having a Thai driver’s license. However, to drive that vehicle, you must have either:
- A valid Thai driver’s license, or
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home license (only valid short-term and with certain visas)
📌 For long-term residents, getting a Thai license is highly recommended and often required by insurance companies.
Can I buy a vehicle in Thailand on a tourist visa?
Yes, but it depends on your ability to provide proof of residence. Immigration offices will sometimes issue a residence certificate to tourists staying at hotels or Airbnbs, but this varies by location. Without that document, you won’t be able to register the vehicle in your name.
Is financing available for foreigners buying used vehicles?
Rarely. Financing is typically only available to foreigners who have:
- A valid work permit
- A long-term visa
- Income documentation and sometimes a Thai guarantor
📌 Most used vehicles are purchased with cash. Some dealerships may offer informal installment plans, but these come with high interest and little legal protection.
Can I drive a vehicle that’s registered in someone else’s name?
Yes, you can drive a vehicle even if it’s not registered in your name, but it’s not ideal. If you’re involved in an accident or stopped by police, you may need to explain your relationship to the registered owner. Insurance claims can also get complicated if the driver and owner aren’t the same person.
How do I check if a used vehicle has outstanding fines or loans?
The safest way is to ask the seller to accompany you to the Department of Land Transport (DLT) during the ownership transfer. The DLT will check for:
- Unpaid traffic fines
- Outstanding finance liens
- Duplicate or invalid green books
📌 Always complete the transfer at the DLT in person to ensure the vehicle is clear.
💬 Got questions or tips about buying a vehicle in Thailand? Drop a comment below— I’d love to hear your experience and it might help a fellow expat navigate the process.