Thai national ID card translation
In short
Scan both sides of the card and translate every field including the 13-digit number, the issuing authority and the dates. Where the card's English name differs from the passport, both spellings are shown so the authority can match them.
The Thai national identity card carries the 13-digit identification number, the name in Thai and English, the date of birth and the issue and expiry dates. Overseas authorities use it to tie an application to a single verified identity, and the reverse side carries the laser code that identifies the card itself.
Issued by: Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior
When it is used
- • Identity evidence attached to a visa or civil registration application
- • Bank, notarial and court matters requiring proof of identity
- • Supporting evidence where the ID number appears on other records
- • Confirming a name spelling used in Thai records
What to prepare
- • Colour scans of the front and the back of the card
- • A passport copy, since the passport spelling governs the translated name
- • The receiving authority and country
- • Any change-of-name certificate if the card predates a name change
Step by step
Scan both sides
A flat colour scan of front and back. Photographs of the card at an angle usually lose the laser code on the reverse.
Translate all printed fields
Name, 13-digit number, date of birth, address if printed, issuing authority, issue and expiry dates, and the reverse-side code.
Reconcile the name
Where the English name on the card differs from the passport, the translation records both so the authority can follow the identity.
Certify as required
Apply the certification route the receiving body states for identity documents.
Common reasons for rejection
- • Sending the front of the card only.
- • An expired card submitted where the authority asks for current identity evidence.
- • Glare across the card obscuring the number.
- • Treating the card's printed English name as authoritative over the passport.
FAQ
The card already shows my name in English. Do I still need a translation?
Yes where the rest of the card is in Thai. The fields, issuing authority and dates still need translating, and the authority needs one complete document.
Can an expired card be used?
It can be translated, but many authorities want current identity evidence. Renew the card if the application calls for a valid document.
Why is the reverse side needed?
The reverse carries the laser identification code, which is part of the document and is commonly checked.
Can the ID card replace a birth certificate?
No. It proves identity, not the birth registration details that a birth certificate records.
Related pages
Reviewed August 2026. Sources: https://consular.mfa.go.th/, https://www.bora.dopa.go.th/, https://pcscenter.sb.police.go.th/, https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/, https://www.naati.com.au/. General information for document preparation only, not immigration assistance. We are not a registered migration agent (OMARA).
Official sources you can verify
The information on this page is based on the official sources below. Reviewed August 2026. Requirements change — always confirm with the receiving authority before lodging.
- Department of Provincial Administration (Ministry of Interior)Civil and family registration records and certified copies.
- Department of Consular Affairs, MFA ThailandRules and procedures for legalisation of documents in Thailand.