Transport Department Clarifies TC and QC Test Vehicle Plates
Thailand's Department of Land Transport clarified that TC and QC registration plates authorize vehicles for testing before production or sale, with TC plates valid for 180 days on prototypes and QC plates for 90 days on quality-checked vehi
The Department of Land Transport has clarified that vehicles bearing TC and QC registration plates are authorized test vehicles undergoing performance and quality checks. Director Thitipat Thaijongrak of the Automotive Engineering Division explained that these plates are issued by the department to permit vehicles to be tested for completeness, performance, system readiness, and compliance with standards before production or sale, ensuring quality and safety.
The TC plate, standing for "Test before Construction," is used for prototype vehicles that are newly manufactured, assembled, imported, or modified in their control systems or equipment. Manufacturers must test these vehicles under real operating conditions before full production. The authorization permit is valid for 180 days from issue. For cars, TC plates are white reflective metal sheets measuring 15 centimeters wide by 34 centimeters long, with "TC" on the first line followed by up to four digits, and the province name Bangkok on the second line, with the Department of Land Transport emblem stamped in the bottom right corner. Motorcycles use smaller TC plates measuring 17.20 by 22 centimeters, arranged across three lines with "TC," the province, and up to four digits, plus the department emblem in the top right corner.
The QC plate, meaning "Quality Control," is used for vehicles already produced, assembled, or imported that have been randomly selected for quality testing before sale. QC plates measure 15 by 34 centimeters for cars, with "QC" on the first line followed by up to four digits, Bangkok province on the second line, and the department emblem in the bottom right corner. Authorization permits for QC vehicles are valid for 90 days from issue.
Thitipat stated that those operating TC or QC test vehicles on roads must carry a copy of their authorization permit at all times, maintain required insurance coverage, and have drivers holding appropriate licenses. Unauthorized or non-compliant use of TC or QC plates violates Section 6/1 paragraph three of the Automotive Act and is subject to fines up to 2,000 baht under Section 60 of the act.
TC and QC plates represent legally issued vehicle identification marks and are part of Thailand's framework for promoting vehicle research, development, and testing while ensuring road safety compliance. Members of the public with questions may contact the Vehicle and Engine Registration Control Section, Registry and Tax Standards Division, Department of Land Transport, at 0-2271-8888 extension 2408.
