I still remember the our first time renting a car in Chiang Mai. We had a loose plan to drive up to Pai for a few days and then keep going around the Mae Hong Son Loop. Within an hour of leaving the city we were weaving past rice fields, rolling through small mountain villages and stopping whenever something caught our eye.
It was the kind of trip that made us realise how much easier Northern Thailand is when you have your own wheels.
When we rent a car in Chiang Mai we book through Discover Cars because the prices are transparent and you can compare all the major suppliers in one place.
A lot of people worry about driving in Thailand, especially if it is their first visit. We felt the same way at the start. What surprised us is that once you are out of the Old City, the roads are comfortable and well signed, and most drivers are patient. We also never feel confident on scooters, so having a car gives us more freedom and a lot more peace of mind.
If you are planning day trips or longer adventures like Pai, Chiang Rai or the Mae Hong Son Loop, renting a car in Chiang Mai can make everything smoother. This guide covers everything you need including the best companies to use and tips from our own experiences driving around the north of Thailand.
Renting a Car in Chiang Mai: An Overview
If you have never driven in Thailand before, Chiang Mai is one of the easiest places to begin. The city itself can feel a bit hectic at first, especially around the Old City and the markets, but once you roll past the moat and head towards the mountains, the roads feel calm and manageable. To get a feel for the layout, our complete Chiang Mai guide is a helpful place to start.
For most travellers, renting a car in Chiang Mai comes down to convenience. You can visit temples, coffee farms and national parks at your own pace without waiting for tours or negotiating taxi prices.
There are still a few times when a car might not be ideal, such as during major festivals or if you are staying only inside the Old City. In that case, walking or using Grab may be easier.
If you need to rent a car for a Chiang Mai road trip we recommend Discover Cars. This is our favourite car rental comparison site. What we love about them is that they work with local agencies and usually find the cheapest rates. We also like that they allow you to compare agency reviews easily.
👉 Check rental car prices.
Renting a Car in Chiang Mai with Discover Cars
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore at your own pace. Northern Thailand has incredible scenery, with wide open stretches of road and plenty of small detours that are easy to see when you have your own vehicle.
Safety and comfort are big advantages. We have never felt confident riding scooters in Thailand, and a car gives more protection and stability on mountain roads.
If you are planning your days around sightseeing, this Chiang Mai tour itinerary has great ideas for places that are easy to reach by car.
For couples or groups, a rental car may be better value than booking several day tours.
How to Rent a Car in Chiang Mai
Booking Online
Booking online before you arrive usually gives you better prices and a wider choice of vehicles for the best car rental companies in Chiang Mai. It is also the easiest way to check supplier ratings, and rental conditions.
Head over to the Discover Cars website and input your travel dates and preferred pick-up location. Chiang Mai has both international and local companies.
⭐ ONLY RENT FROM WELL-RATED PLACES
Our advice is to filter by ratings because while everyone wants to get those sweet Chiang Mai car rental deals, the cheapest place is rarely the best. These also tend to be the places with additional fees and extra costs.
Personally, we don’t bother renting from local agencies with less than a 7.5 out of 10 Stars rating so that we have a great experience like those other reviewers did.
👉 Check rates and availability with Discover Cars
Car Rental at Chiang Mai Airport
Most travellers pick up their car at Chiang Mai International Airport. After showing your passport, licence and voucher, you’ll be taken to the pick-up area.
Driving out of the airport is straight forward, and if you are staying nearby, our guide to the best areas to stay in Chiang Mai can help you choose a convenient base.
Unlimited mileage is ideal for trips to Pai, Chiang Rai or the Mae Hong Son Loop.
Requirements for Renting a Car in Chiang Mai
Documents You Need
- Driver’s licence
- Passport
- Credit or debit card
- Booking voucher
Do You Need an International Driving Permit
An IDP is recommended especially if your licence is not in English or if you are stopped at police checkpoints. Rental desks may just accept a standard licence from your home country but also having the IDP can make the process easier.
Age Requirements
Most companies accept drivers aged 21 and above, with some requiring 23 or 25 for larger vehicles.
Choosing the Right Rental Car
Best Car Types for Northern Thailand
Automatic cars are the easiest option for mountain roads. If you have additional luggage or planning longer trips, a slightly larger vehicle will certainly add comfort.
Insurance and Full Coverage
Full Coverage is an optional extra that protects you from costs related to damage or theft. It covers towing fees, key loss, administrative charges and more. It is not insurance but a protection product that reduces your financial risk. For piece of mind it can be a good choice especially if you are not familiar with driving in a foreign country.
We always choose Full Coverage when driving in Thailand for extra peace of mind.
You can compare car types and Full Coverage options on Discover Cars:
👉 Check the options on Discover Cars.
Chiang Mai Road Conditions
The main highways are smooth and well maintained. The road to Pai has a lot of curves but is reasonably comfortable in a car. If you suffer from motion sickness it may pay to grab some motion sickness tablets from a local pharmacy before your journey. For a full breakdown of stops and viewpoints, see our Chiang Mai to Pai guide.
The Mae Hong Son Loop mixes open stretches with tight hill sections. A car makes this route easier and more enjoyable. During rainy or smoky seasons, give yourself more time and drive cautiously.
Driving in Chiang Mai Tips
Local Driving Style
Calm and patient, with slow predictable traffic flow.
Lane Etiquette
Vehicles drive in the left lane in Thailand. Right lane for overtaking.
Google Maps
Accurate across the region. Download offline maps areas without good receiption and mountain areas.
Police Checkpoints
Common but simple. Passport and licence checks.
Parking
Tight inside the Old City. Easier near larget markets and shopping centres.
Fuel Stops
Frequent on major highways. Fill up before long rural drives.
Chiang Mai Car Rental Tips to Avoid Extra Charges
- Photograph the car at pick up
- Check the fuel policy
- Understand mileage limits
- Return the car during business hours
- Allow extra time for city traffic
We always choose suppliers rated 7.5 or higher and use Discover Cars for clear rental conditions:
👉 Check Discover Cars for latest pricing and special deals.
Renting a Car in Chiang Mai for Multi Day Trips
Chiang Mai to Pai road trip
This is one of the north’s most scenic drives. We have visited Pai from Chiang Mai on many occasions and it is one of our favourite destinations in Northern Thailand.
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
A smooth highway drive. If you want to know whether it is worth the trip, read our guide to visiting Chiang Rai.
Mae Hong Son Loop by Car
A rewarding multi day trip with mountain views and quiet villages. A car is more comfortable than a scooter given the the long distances.
Is Renting a Car in Chiang Mai Worth It
For travellers who want to explore the local regions outside the city, renting a car is worth it. The roads are manageable, and you get the freedom to explore at your own pace.
To plan your sightseeing days, use our ultimate Chiang Mai itinerary for ideas. If you are staying longer, see our guide on long stay travel in Thailand.
Ready to book your car? Check live availability at Chiang Mai Airport here:
👉 Discover Cars Booking
Last words on Renting a Car in Chiang Mai
Renting a car in Chiang Mai is one of the best ways to explore Northern Thailand with comfort and flexibility. From our own drives to Pai, Chiang Rai and the Mae Hong Son Loop, we find the region easy to navigate and very enjoyable by car.
A little preparation goes a long way, and once you are on the road, the freedom to stop anywhere makes the whole experience worth it.
TL;DR: Renting a Car in Chiang Mai
- Roads are smooth once you leave the Old City
- A car is safer and more relaxing than a scooter
- Perfect for trips to Pai, Chiang Rai and the Mae Hong Son Loop
- Book online before you arrive
- Choose suppliers rated 8.0 and above
- Bring your passport, licence and booking voucher
- Automatic cars are ideal
- Full Coverage provides peace of mind
- Take photos at pick up
- Return during business hours
Find the best Chiang Mai car hire deals here:
👉 Check pricing and reviews.