Thai Road Rules: Laws, Fines and Driving Safely
Thailand’s roads reward patience. The written rules are familiar, but enforcement campaigns, steep 2026 fines and local habits mean it pays to know both.
The short version
- Thailand drives on the left.
- Drink-drive limit: 0.05% blood alcohol, or 0.02% for drivers under 20.
- Helmets for riders and passengers and seatbelts for everyone are the law.
- Phone use without hands-free, speeding and red lights can each cost up to 4,000 baht.
- Carry a valid licence at all times; police can ask for it whenever they stop you.
The rules that matter most
- Drive on the left and give way as signed
- Seatbelts for all occupants, helmets for riders and passengers
- No phone in your hand while driving
- Stop at pedestrian crossings
- Speed limits are generally 50–80 km/h in towns and 90–120 km/h on highways; follow the signs
Drink driving
The limit is 0.05% blood alcohol for drivers aged 20 and over and 0.02% for drivers under 20, and it applies to foreigners too. Penalties run from 5,000 to 20,000 baht and up to a year in prison. Police checkpoints are common at night and during holidays such as Songkran and New Year.
Staying safe on Thai roads
Expect motorbikes on both sides, vehicles pulling out without looking and U-turn lanes on fast roads. Leave space, avoid night driving on unfamiliar highways and slow down in the rain.
If you have an accident, make sure everyone is safe, call 1669 if anyone is hurt, then call your insurer.
What the common offences cost
Maximum penalties reported by The Thaiger at the start of the April 2026 enforcement campaign.
Road mistakes to avoid
Checkpoints are frequent.
Passengers too.
Up to 4,000 baht.
It matters for insurance.
Everything on driving in Thailand
Guides from the JLIT library.
Hubs for getting around
Transport, rentals and insurance.
Keep going
Questions newcomers ask
Which side of the road does Thailand drive on?
The left.
What is the drink-drive limit in Thailand?
0.05% blood alcohol for drivers aged 20 and over, and 0.02% for drivers under 20.
What is the fine for not wearing a helmet in Thailand?
Up to 2,000 baht, for riders and passengers.
