Getting a rental car in Thailand can be an excellent and convenient way to explore the country. Though driving in any foreign place takes a little getting used to, once you get out of Bangkok, Thailand is actually a really pleasant place to drive. Highways are well maintained and serve most of the country, and road customs are not too difficult to understand. Watch out in Bangkok, or any big city, though, as traffic can be horrible and tailgating and cutting in rules are probably much different than you're used to.

Rental Car Agencies. Budget and Avis both operate in Thailand and have offices in the airport, Bangkok and most common tourist areas. There are also local car rental agencies that offer cars for rent. Make sure you check your personal car insurance and credit card to see whether you will be covered for any accidents or damage that happens in another country.

Do You Need a Special License?. Probably not. If you are only in the country for less than 6 months, you may drive with your home drivers license. If you are in Thailand for more than 6 months, you should either have an international drivers license (available through AAA) or a Thai license.

Rules of the Road. In Thailand you drive on the left and the drivers side is on the right. So, if you're coming from the UK you won't have any trouble acclimating. If you're coming from the US or another country where people drive on the right, initially this may feel really awkward. Out on the road, there are some differences in driving etiquette that you should be aware of before you get behind the wheel in Thailand. Tailgating is much more common and apparently acceptable. People often cut each other off or cut into lines of cars. While at home this might be akin to fighting words, in Thailand people accept the behavior.

Parking. Many shops, malls, restaurants, sights and hotels offer parking and it is typically not expensive (if not free). In very crowded areas (such as Siam Square in Bangkok) drivers are expected to leave their cars in neutral so that the can be pushed out of the way if necessary! Pristine bumpers are difficult to maintain under the circumstances.

Talking on the Phone. As of a few years ago, it is illegal to talk on the phone without a headset while driving in Thailand. People seem to break this law quite frequently but if you do you risk getting a ticket.

If you get pulled over. Hand your license and car rental documents to the officer. He or she may also ask for your passport. If you are ticketed, your license will be confiscated and you will be required to go in person to the nearest police station to settle your ticket fee and pick up your license.