Driving in Chiang Mai
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Chiang Mai
IDP Required
Thailand requires IDP for driving legally. Chiang Mai police occasionally set up checkpoints, especially during festivals.
Fine without IDP: 1,000 - 3,000 THB (€25-75)
Where to Get IDP: Obtain from your home country before traveling. Valid for 1 year from issue date.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Chiang Mai
Daily Rental Cost
150 - 300 THB/day ($4-8)IDP with motorcycle category needed. Chiang Mai is more relaxed than Bangkok but still enforces rules.
Insurance Warning
Hospital costs in Chiang Mai are lower than Bangkok but still significant without insurance.
Rental Tips
- Old City has most rental shops - compare prices
- Automatic scooters are easier for mountain roads
- Many rentals include basic insurance - ask for details
- Mountain temple trips require confident riding skills
Traffic Rules in Chiang Mai
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Old City has a ring road with specific traffic directions
- 2Songkran (April) means water fights - driving is very risky
- 3Sunday Walking Street closes roads to traffic
- 4Night Bazaar area has heavy pedestrian traffic
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Underestimating mountain road difficulty
- Not filling up before mountain trips
- Speeding on quiet-looking roads (police hide here)
- Driving during Songkran water festival
Horn Culture
Generally quiet and polite. A quick horn tap at blind corners in mountains is good practice.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
400 - 1,000 THB ($11-28)
No Helmet
400 - 1,000 THB ($11-28)
No IDP
2,000 - 4,000 THB ($55-110)
Red Light
1,000 THB ($28)
Drink Driving
10,000 - 20,000 THB ($280-560) + jail
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Mountain roads have sharp turns and steep drops - drive slowly
- Smoke season (Feb-Apr) reduces visibility significantly
- Cool season mornings can be cold - bring a jacket
- Night driving in mountains is not recommended
Best Time to Drive
November-February cool season has best weather and visibility. Early mornings are ideal.
Rainy Season Warning
May-October brings afternoon thunderstorms. Mountain roads become very slippery and dangerous.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Doi Suthep road at night (steep, dark, dangerous)
- Mae Jo area during rush hours
- Old City during Sunday Walking Street (closed to vehicles)
Parking
Average Cost
20 - 50 THB/hour ($0.50-1.50)Scooter Parking
Easy throughout the city. Many cafes and restaurants have dedicated scooter parking.
Parking Tips
- Old City has limited parking - use outer ring areas
- Temple parking is usually free but may ask for donations
- Mall parking is abundant and inexpensive
FAQ: Driving in Chiang Mai
Is Chiang Mai easier to drive in than Bangkok?
Much easier. Chiang Mai has less traffic, smaller roads, and a more relaxed pace. It's one of the better places in Thailand for tourists to learn scooter riding.
Can I drive to Pai from Chiang Mai?
Yes, but the 762-curve mountain road is challenging. Only attempt if you're an experienced rider, and never after drinking. The bus is a safer option for most tourists.
What's the best way to visit Doi Suthep temple?
Songthaews (red trucks) from the Old City are safest. If driving yourself, go early morning when traffic is light and road is dry.
Emergency Contacts
Police
191
Ambulance
1669
Tourist Police
1155
Roadside Assistance
Call your rental shop
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Practice for Your Thailand Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.