Driving in Thailand: rules and road habits

Before you start

Driving in Thailand is very manageable for visitors who take the first day slowly. The main differences from Europe, North America and Australia are the side of the road, the number of scooters and a few local habits such as U-turn slots. This guide covers the official rules first, then the unwritten ones that matter just as much.

Carry your driving licence, International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva type), passport (or a copy, with the original nearby) and the rental contract whenever you drive.

The basics

• Drive on the left. Rental cars are right-hand drive and you overtake on the right.
• Seatbelts are required for the driver and all passengers, front and back.
• No hand-held phones while driving – use a holder and hands-free.
• Child seats are required for young children – request them when you book.
• Headlights on from dusk and in heavy rain.

Speed limits

Limits are not always clearly signed. As a guide:

Always follow the posted signs. Speed cameras are common on Route 402 and on the main roads to Krabi and Khao Lak, and fines can reach THB 4,000. Fines from cameras may be sent to the rental company, which can charge them to your card after the rental.

Alcohol limits

The legal limit is 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (0.05%). A stricter 20 mg limit applies to drivers under 20, provisional licence holders and anyone driving without a valid licence for the vehicle. Police run breath tests at checkpoints, especially in the evening and around holidays. Penalties include fines, licence suspension and possible prison – and the rental insurance does not cover you if you drive over the limit. Simply don't drink and drive.

Roundabouts and junctions

Traffic goes clockwise around roundabouts, and cars already on the roundabout normally have priority. Indicate left before your exit. Many big junctions in Phuket are controlled by traffic lights with long waits, some with countdown timers. A left turn on red is only allowed where a sign says so.

At small junctions without signs, larger vehicles often assume priority. Be predictable, signal early and never assume the other driver has seen you.

U-turn slots

On divided roads such as Route 402 you often cannot turn right across traffic. Instead, drive past your turn, enter the U-turn slot in the central reservation, turn back and then turn left into your road. U-turn slots are marked with signs; queue in the right-hand lane and give way to oncoming traffic. It feels long-winded at first but quickly becomes second nature.

Sharing the road with scooters

• Scooters pass on both sides and ride on the shoulder – check your mirrors before every turn and lane change.
• Expect scooters riding against the traffic close to the kerb, especially near beaches and markets.
• Leave extra space on hills, where scooters slow down sharply on the climbs.
• Open your door carefully – check for scooters passing on the left.

Parking rules

• Red and white kerb: no parking or stopping.
• Yellow and white kerb: stopping only for a short time, for example to drop off passengers.
• Unmarked or grey kerb: parking is generally allowed unless a sign says otherwise.

Wheel clamps and towing are used in Patong and Phuket Town. Malls, temples and many beaches have free or cheap car parks, and most hotels have parking for guests. Never leave valuables visible in the car.

Fuel in Thailand

Most rental cars take Gasohol 91 or 95 (petrol mixed with ethanol). Larger SUVs, pickups and vans often take diesel. The correct fuel is usually printed inside the fuel flap – if not, ask at the desk. Do not put E20 or E85 in a car unless the flap says it is compatible.

At most stations an attendant fills the car for you: say the fuel type and "full" (tem tang). Card payment is common at the big brands, but carry some cash for smaller stations. Many stations on the main roads are open 24 hours and have cafés and clean toilets.

Police checkpoints and fines

Checkpoints are set up regularly, often in the evening and at holiday time. Slow down, follow the officers' signals and have your licence, IDP and rental contract ready. If you receive a ticket, it is paid at a police station or as explained on the ticket – keep the receipt. The Tourist Police (1155) can help in English if there is a misunderstanding.

Headlights, horns and hazard lights

• Use headlights from dusk and in heavy rain.
• A short tap of the horn is a polite "I'm here" on blind hill bends – not a sign of anger.
• Flashing headlights from another driver usually mean "I'm coming through", not "go ahead".
• Do not drive with hazard lights on in the rain – it hides your indicators. Use them only when stopped.

Driving at night

Main roads in towns are lit, but many rural roads and some sections of Route 4 on the mainland are not. At night, watch for scooters without lights, pedestrians on the shoulder, dogs and occasional livestock. Avoid long mainland drives after dark if you can, and never drive tired – petrol stations on the main roads are good, safe places for a break.

Breakdowns and flat tyres

If the car breaks down or you get a flat tyre, pull as far off the road as you can, switch on the hazard lights and put the warning triangle (if supplied) well behind the car. Call the rental company's roadside assistance number on your contract before arranging any repair yourself – unauthorised repairs may not be refunded.

Useful phone numbers

If something goes wrong

1. Stop safely and switch on your hazard lights.
2. Call the rental company first – the number is on your contract and they will arrange the insurance surveyor.
3. In an emergency call 191 (police), 1669 (ambulance) or 1155 (Tourist Police, English-speaking).
4. Take photos of all vehicles, number plates and the scene.
5. Do not move the car (unless it is dangerous) or sign anything you do not understand before the surveyor arrives.

More island-specific advice is on our local tips page.

Frequently asked questions