If you are planning to relocate to Bangkok and are looking to buy a nice car and have that desirable freedom and independence, there are a few things to consider.
As a foreigner, you can own a car or motorcycle and if you have a Thai employer and a work permit, you can also apply for car finance, which might require you to have a Thai guarantor.
Vehicle Registration
If you are buying a new car in Thailand, the seller would handle the ownership registration and you would be presented with the green book (ownership document). If the car is second-hand, then you and the seller must meet at the local land and transport office, where the new owner details are entered into the green book. There is a fee and is it standard for buyer and seller to split this cost.
Green Book
This is a very important document, and it should be kept in a safe place, as this book shows ownership details and the full history of the vehicle. If you are not in possession of the green book, you cannot sell the vehicle, but if the vehicle is financed, the lender would hold the green book until the loan is fully repaid.
Vehicle Insurance
This means second-class insurance. While buying a new car means class 1 is compulsory, at least until the finance has been cleared, a class 2 car insurance is all you really need. When looking for Thai car insurance, search with Google to get a list of online brokers and within a few minutes, you are covered.
In the event you are involved in an accident, call the number on your car insurance sticker and someone will be there within a short time. The agent would take photos of all the vehicles and would liaise on your behalf with other parties until an agreement has been reached and you are advised not to move your car from the accident site. If the police are involved, you will have to show your documents.
Speed Cameras
You might not be aware that they use speed cameras on most Thai roads and as the registered owner of the car, you would receive a penalty notice along with a photo of your vehicle with the speed readings. There are articles you can find online that will provide more information on driving in Thailand.
State Personal Insurance
When you pay your road tax, a portion of that cost goes into your Por Or Bor medical insurance and this is compulsory as it covers personal injury to all parties. This means if your road tax expires, so does your Por Or Bor and with private class 2 insurance and a valid driving license, you are good to go.
Thai Roads
You will be pleased to learn that the general standard of roads in Thailand is excellent, with 8-lane highways throughout the country, linking north and south with Bangkok. There are regular Thai police checkpoints, where you might have to show your passport and driving license.
