Thaiger Motorbike Tours · Travel preparation
Entering Thailand: get ready for your motorcycle tour
Sort out your documents, then enjoy the curves: find the official TDAC link and the key steps to prepare for your motorcycle tour of northern Thailand.
Official government website · free of charge · opens in a new tab
Your checklist before travelling to Thailand
01 · Prepare in advance
- Check your passport and intended length of stay.
- Prepare the driving licences required for your tour motorcycle.
- Confirm your insurance cover with your provider.
02 · Before your flight
- Complete your TDAC within the permitted submission window.
- Save your flight documents and the address of your first hotel.
- Make your travel documents available offline.
Create a travel folder on your smartphone. This keeps your hotel details, flights and tour confirmation close at hand, even if you do not have an internet connection immediately after landing.
Go directly to the Thai Immigration Bureau
TDAC: Thailand's digital arrival form
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card replaces the paper arrival card. It is not a visa and must be completed online before entry. Use the official website tdac.immigration.go.th.
Prepare the information you will need
- Passport and personal details: Copy your details carefully and enter the information in English.
- Travel and accommodation: Have your travel details and the address of your first accommodation ready.
- Health information: Answer the questions displayed on the form.
- Review and submit: Check all details, including your email address, and download the confirmation.
For your tour, enter the actual first accommodation of your trip. If you arrive early, this may be a different hotel from the tour hotel.
Complete your TDAC on the official website ↗The official registration is free. If you are asked to pay, check whether you are on an intermediary website. Submit your information directly to the immigration authority.
Passport and visa: British and US visitors
British citizen passport holders
Travel with a full British citizen passport valid for at least six months after arrival, with at least one blank page.
For eligible tourist visits, visa exemption allows a stay of up to 30 days under the rules effective from 15 September 2026. For longer stays or other purposes, check the appropriate visa before travelling.
US passport holders
Your US passport must remain valid for at least six months after your arrival in Thailand.
The Royal Thai Embassy in Washington confirms visa-exempt tourist stays of up to 30 days for eligible US citizens from 15 September 2026. Check visa requirements before travelling if your stay or purpose falls outside this scheme.
You may be asked to show cash equivalent to THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family as proof of funds.
These passport sections cover British citizens and US citizens travelling as tourists. Other British nationality categories, other passports, emergency travel documents and non-tourist visits may have different requirements. Recheck the official sources before departure.
Riding in Thailand: driving licences and insurance
Follow the requirements for the country that issued your driving licence. Your passport nationality alone does not determine which driving permit you need.
Riders with a UK driving licence
Carry your original UK driving licence and a 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP). Obtain the permit before leaving the UK.
Your licence must cover the motorcycle you will ride, including any category or power restrictions. An IDP does not add motorcycle entitlement to a car-only licence.
Riders with a US driver's licence
Carry your valid original US driver's licence with the appropriate motorcycle endorsement or class, together with an International Driving Permit covering motorcycles.
Obtain your IDP through an authorised US issuer, such as AAA. AAA issues the 1949 Convention permit, recognised in Thailand. The permit must accompany your US licence and cannot grant vehicle privileges you do not already hold.
If you hold a Thai motorcycle licence or plan to live in Thailand, confirm the applicable requirements with the Thai Department of Land Transport. The visitor guidance above is not a guide to converting a licence or taking up residence.
Does your licence cover your motorcycle?
Before booking, check whether your motorcycle licence category covers your chosen model. Tell us about any licence restrictions in advance so we can agree on a suitable motorcycle together.
What does your insurance cover?
Ask your insurer to confirm that motorcycle riding is covered during your trip. Check medical expenses, repatriation and any exclusions. Also clarify the vehicle cover and excess for your tour motorcycle.
Allow enough time for your documents to be issued. Check names, validity dates and licence categories before departure, rather than waiting until the start of your tour.
Frequently asked questions about preparing for your trip
Are the TDAC and a visa the same thing?
No. The TDAC is a digital arrival card. If you need a visa, you must apply for it separately.
Which hotel address should I enter?
Enter the address of your first accommodation in Thailand. Check it against your hotel confirmation. If you have questions about the tour hotel, contact us before completing the form.
What should I arrange if I arrive before the tour starts?
Agree your arrival date, extra nights and meeting point with us. Remember to include the days before and after the motorcycle tour when planning your trip.
What should I discuss with you before booking?
Your preferred motorcycle, riding experience, licence category and travel dates. This helps us work out together which tour suits you.
Your motorcycle adventure starts with good planning
Ready for northern Thailand's curves?
Explore our guided motorcycle tours from Chiang Mai or send us your questions about preparing for your trip. We can help coordinate your arrival and tour arrangements.