National ID card and card-particulars certificate
The Thai national ID card is issued under the National Identity Card Act B.E. 2526 and evidences identity and the 13-digit ID number. For overseas use it is translated and legalised, or replaced by a registrar-issued certificate of card particulars.
The card shows the given name, surname, date of birth, registered address and the 13-digit identification number; the reverse carries a production control code that some receivers also want translated, so scan both sides before ordering.
Where the receiver wants a paper document issued by the state rather than a plastic card, request a certificate of card particulars from the registration office. It is easier to handle in legalisation because it can be copy-certified and translated directly.
The romanised name on the card and the name in the passport can differ, especially after a name change or where a different transliteration system was used. The translation should follow the passport spelling, with the change-of-name certificate attached where needed, so the receiver does not treat you as two different people.
Typical uses are powers of attorney executed for use abroad, cross-border account opening and contract signing, and any filing where the receiver wants proof of the principal's identity — usually alongside a copy certified by a Notarial Services Attorney.
Documents to prepare
- A valid national ID card, scanned or copied on both sides
- A certificate of card particulars from the registration office where a paper document is required
- The passport to be filed, to anchor the spelling of names
- Change-of-name certificates where spellings differ
- A power of attorney if a representative will act for you
Step order
- Prepare copies of both sides, or obtain a certificate of card particulars from the registrar
- Translate every field, including the issue and expiry dates
- Have the copy certified by a Notarial Services Attorney where the receiver requires it
- File the translation for legalisation at the Department of Consular Affairs
- Endorse at the destination country's embassy where that country requires it
Pre-filing checklist
- The card is still valid on the date of filing
- Both sides are scanned and all digits are legible
- Name spellings in the translation follow the passport
- The 13-digit number is reproduced digit for digit
- Change-of-name evidence is attached where card and passport differ
Practical tips
- Renew a card close to expiry before starting translation and legalisation
- Use the certificate of card particulars when the receiver will not accept a card copy
- Do not redact fields — the translation must mirror the original completely
- Keep several certified copies; power-of-attorney files often need one per matter
Common pitfalls
- Sending only the front side and missing the reverse fields the receiver wants
- Relying on an expired card as identity evidence
- Using the card spelling in the translation while the passport spells the name differently
- A blurred copy where the ID number cannot be read, forcing a refiling
Frequently asked questions
Who should certify a copy of the ID card?
The holder can certify their own copy, but where the receiver wants identity verified it usually asks a Notarial Services Attorney to certify the copy and the signature.
Can an expired card be filed?
Generally not — receivers treat it as out of date. Renew the card at the registration office first, then start translation and legalisation.
What is a certificate of card particulars?
A registration-office document confirming the particulars shown on the ID card. It suits receivers that want a paper record with an official signature and seal.
Is a spelling mismatch between card and passport a problem?
It can be. Follow the passport spelling in the translation and attach a change-of-name certificate or other evidence linking the two spellings.
Does the reverse of the card need translating?
It depends on the receiver; some want only the front, others both sides including the control code. Scan both sides up front to avoid repeating the work.
Can you review our documents before filing?
Yes. Send the scans via LINE @nycli, +66-83-249-4999 or nycli@ilc.ltd and we will confirm the format and the certification layers required.
For a document review before you file, contact us on LINE @nycli, call +66-83-249-4999 or email nycli@ilc.ltd. Our team will confirm the steps, any missing documents and a realistic timeline for your case.