This is an introduction on driving laws in Thailand and the do’s and don’t while driving on them.

This is an introduction on driving laws in Thailand and the do’s and don’t while driving on them:

The Rules and Regulations

• You should always drive on the left side of the road.
• The legal age to drive a car on Thai roads is 18.
• The legal age to ride a motorcycle of up to 110cc is 15. Anything more powerful, driver should be at least 18.
• While driving, it is mandatory for a driver to have a copy of their registration document (blue book) and driver’s license.
• International and valid Thai licenses are acceptable.
• It is mandatory to wear seat belts in the front seats. Fines for breaking this rule can be paid at a local police station.
• Every vehicle should have a tax sticker, which should be renewed annually at the local Department of Land Transport (DLT) Office.
• The Blood-Alcohol limit is set at 0.5 mg.
• Every vehicle should have third party insurance.
• Fines for speeding must be paid at the local police station.
• Vehicles with red registration plates are not allowed to be driven at night.
• Drivers are only allowed to use a cellular mobile device via a hands-free set.

Some Things to Remember While Driving in Thailand

• Drivers operating large vehicles will often assume that smaller vehicles will give way
• Flashing headlights should be taken as a warning signal for “get out of the way”, as compared to some western countries which may mean “you may continue with your maneuver”.
• When opening car doors, always check for motorbikes, as they will often use the space between the road and the pavement as their driving space.
• It is not mandatory to use a child safety seat.
• Any desired changes to a car’s color should first be reported to the DLT, who then make the necessary amendments to the registration book.
• One of the frequent methods used by Thai denizens to warn oncoming vehicles of a car breakdown is to put tree branches on the road.

Traffic Signs

Thai traffic signs, both regulatory and warning, are written in Thai, but may have an English translation written below it.

Types of Roads

The roads in Thailand are comprised of multi-lane freeways around Bangkok and tine lanes (also known as soi’s). The Thai government has a continual investment in the development and upgrading of roads, all over Thailand, which makes road works commonplace. Road are clearly marked or well light at night.