Transcript of the above video:

As the title of this video suggests, we are discussing driving in Thailand in the context of the TM30. Now for those who are unaware, the TM30 is an address reporting form that is associated with physical presence of non-Thai nationals here in Thailand. 

So if you come to Thailand, most tourists don't even worry about this stuff because quite honestly, if you come in for two weeks, 10 days whatever, staying in Thailand, going to the beach, those kind of folks you are probably going to have your TM30 just automatically filed for you by your hotel and if you are not looking for any services from internal Thai Immigration, it is not something to worry about greatly. That said, TM30 is having a tremendous impact, it has had in the past, a tremendous impact on the expat population here in Thailand for example in the context of driving licenses. 

I thought of making this video after reading a recent article from the Pattaya Mail, that is pattayamail.com, the article is titled: Chonburi Immigration Bureau tightens address reporting. Quoting directly: "A recent change in procedure at Pattaya-Jomtien Immigration (and Sri Racha) means that all foreigners requiring a service must have a TM30 form receipt in their passport dated since their last arrival in Thailand." That is really key; that is the big policy change that's happening here. Up to now you come in, you do your TM30, if your main address in Thailand hadn't changed, then they were just not making a big deal about it. They said "okay, you have got one TM30 receipt." But now, if you leave and return you have got to have a new TM30 dated after that return date; that appears to be what we are dealing with. Quoting further: "The change in procedure means that the requirement is now extended to any foreigner seeking a reentry permit, a renewal of a one-year extension of stay (including retirement and marriage visas), extension of Elite, certificates of residence for driving licenses, opening bank accounts etc." So again, while this is indirect, it is definitely having a bearing on those looking to get a driver's license here in the Kingdom of Thailand.