New fines in Thailand in 2025 — what has changed since 1 June (list for tourists)

22 October 2025

On 1 June 2025, new, stricter traffic rules and increased fines came into force in Thailand. These changes affect both locals and foreign tourists who rent vehicles. In this article, we will discuss in detail the new fines that tourists may face in Phuket and other regions of the country, and why it is important to comply with the new rules.

Important changes in fines are aimed at improving discipline on the roads and enhancing safety. The country’s police have become stricter in enforcing traffic rules, especially in tourist areas such as Phuket, Bangkok and Samui. To avoid unpleasant situations and fines, tourists should familiarise themselves with the current rules and fines in advance.

Driving licence

One of the main changes in 2025 was an increase in fines for driving without a licence or without the necessary documents. It is important to note that foreigners are required to have not only a national driving licence but also an international driving permit (IDP) corresponding to the type of vehicle they are driving.

Fines:

Driving without a licence (or without an international licence): 1,000 baht.
Failure to present a licence when requested by the police: 2,000 baht.

This means that if you rent a car in Phuket or other resort areas of Thailand, you must always carry both licences (national and international) with you to avoid fines and trouble with the police.

Child and passenger safety

Due to new safety measures, Phuket and the rest of the country now enforce stricter controls on seat belt use and child seats. Previously, the fine for not wearing a seat belt was 500 baht, but from 1 June 2025, it has increased to 2,000 baht, and now every passenger, not just the driver, is fined for not wearing a seat belt.

Fines:

No child seat for a child under 6 years old: 2,000 baht.
Not wearing a seat belt: 2,000 baht for each passenger.

Car rental companies in Phuket provide child seats on request, but it is better to check in advance that they will be available if you are travelling with children.

Common traffic violations

Fines for some traffic violations have increased significantly. Speeding, running a red light and other violations can now cost several times more than before. The police actively monitor compliance with these rules in tourist areas, which requires drivers to be particularly careful.

Fines:

Speeding: 500 to 4,000 baht (depending on the level of speeding).
Running a red light: 4,000 baht.
Failure to give way to pedestrians at a zebra crossing: 4,000 baht.
Illegal parking: 2,000 baht.
Driving in the wrong lane: 2,000 baht.

These fines are intended to improve road safety, especially in areas with heavy traffic, such as Phuket, where there are many tourists.

Motorcycles and helmets

From 2025, fines for riding a motorcycle without a helmet will be significantly increased. Now, both drivers and passengers will be fined 2,000 baht for not wearing a helmet. The Phuket police are particularly vigilant in ensuring that all motorcyclists wear fastened helmets, especially in tourist areas where foreigners are often found.

Fine:

No helmet (for driver or passenger): 2,000 baht.

To avoid fines and improve your safety, always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. This is important for both you and your passengers.

Dangerous behaviour on the road

Driving while intoxicated or participating in illegal races is now punished more severely. Penalties range from heavy fines to licence revocation and imprisonment.

Fines:

Driving under the influence (first offence): fine of 5,000 to 20,000 baht + licence suspension.
Repeat offences of driving under the influence: possible imprisonment.
Failure to stop when requested by the police: fine of 2,000 to 10,000 baht and/or imprisonment.
Participation in illegal racing or vehicle theft: fine of 5,000 to 20,000 baht and possible imprisonment.

Driving while intoxicated or attempting to flee from the police can lead to serious consequences, including criminal liability.

Using a mobile phone while driving

Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit is now punishable by a fine of 4,000 baht. This is an important new measure aimed at reducing the number of accidents caused by driver distraction.

Fine:

Using a phone without a hands-free headset while driving: 4,000 baht.

To avoid this fine, use a speakerphone or headset. If you need to talk on the phone, it is better to pull over to the side of the road and only then make the call.

List of fines from 1 June 2025

Violation	Fine
No license plate	2,000 ฿
No child seat (child under 6 years)	2,000 ฿
Driving in the oncoming lane	2,000 ฿
Parking in a prohibited area	2,000 ฿
Failure to yield to a pedestrian	4,000 ฿
Running a red light	4,000 ฿
Speeding	up to 4,000 ฿
Not wearing a seat belt (driver or passenger)	2,000 ฿
No motorcycle helmet (driver or passenger)	2,000 ฿
Failure to stop when ordered by police	2,000–10,000 ฿ (possible arrest)
Drunk driving (first offense)	5,000–20,000 ฿ + license suspension
Using a phone without hands-free	4,000 ฿
Driving without a license or with an expired license	1,000 ฿
Refusal to show driver’s license to police officer	2,000 ฿

Why you should follow the new rules

With the introduction of new fines in 2025, the Thai authorities have tightened enforcement of traffic regulations. This is aimed at improving road safety and reducing accidents, especially in tourist areas. To avoid fines and unpleasant situations, it is important to follow these recommendations:

Always wear your seatbelt, even if you are sitting in the back seat.
Be sure to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents to drive a car.
Try to avoid talking on the phone while driving.
Follow traffic rules and avoid violations such as speeding or running red lights.

FAQ

What documents are required to rent a car in Thailand?
To rent a car, you will need a national driving licence and an international driving permit (IDP).

How can I avoid traffic fines in Phuket?
Follow all traffic rules, wear helmets, fasten seat belts and do not use mobile phones while driving.

What should I do if I get a fine in Phuket?
You can pay the fine on the spot and receive a receipt, or at the nearest police station.

Do I need to buy insurance when renting a car?
Yes, insurance is mandatory, and you should check your policy to make sure it covers all risks.

How do I pay a fine on the spot?
Usually, you can pay the fine in cash to the inspector, who will give you a receipt. In some cases, if the fine is too high, you will need to pay it at the police station.