Driving in Phuket
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Phuket, Thailand. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Phuket
IDP Required
Thailand requires an IDP. Phuket police run frequent checkpoints, especially on the coastal roads and near Patong.
Fine without IDP: 1,000 - 3,000 THB (€25-75)
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country before traveling.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Phuket
Daily Rental Cost
200 - 400 THB/day ($5-11)IDP with motorcycle category required. Phuket has the highest scooter accident rate in Thailand for tourists.
Insurance Warning
Phuket has Thailand's highest tourist accident rate. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance with motorcycle cover.
Rental Tips
- Phuket has hilly, winding roads - more challenging than flat cities
- The Big Buddha hill road is steep and dangerous for beginners
- Patong area is congested with aggressive taxi drivers
- Always check brakes before accepting - hills are steep
- Rent from reputable shops, not beach vendors
Traffic Rules in Phuket
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Drive on the LEFT
- 2Steep hills require good brakes and low gears
- 3Tuk-tuks and taxis can be aggressive
- 4Many one-way streets in Patong
- 5Watch for tour buses on narrow roads
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Underestimating hill difficulty
- Riding in flip-flops (dangerous on steep hills)
- Not using low gears on descents
- Driving drunk after beach parties
- Going too fast on unfamiliar curves
Horn Culture
Moderate use. More honking in Patong area.
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
- Phuket has Thailand's highest tourist road fatality rate
- Avoid night driving - poor lighting on many roads
- The road to Big Buddha is treacherous - consider taxi
- Watch for sand on coastal roads after storms
- Never drink and drive - strict enforcement
Best Time to Drive
Morning (7-10 AM) before it gets too hot and traffic builds
Rainy Season Warning
May-October: Roads become extremely slippery. Steep hills are dangerous. Many accidents occur during rain.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Patong Hill road at night
- Big Buddha hill road if inexperienced
- Kamala to Surin road curves
Parking
Average Cost
20 - 50 THB/hour ($0.50-1.50)Scooter Parking
Available at most beaches and attractions. Free at many restaurants.
Parking Tips
- Beach parking can be expensive during high season
- Shopping centers have free/cheap parking
- Some beaches have designated scooter parking
- Watch for no-parking zones in Patong
FAQ: Driving in Phuket
Is it safe to rent a scooter in Phuket?
Phuket has Thailand's highest tourist accident rate due to hilly roads and inexperienced riders. If you rent, start on flat areas first and avoid steep hills until comfortable.
Do I need a license to rent a scooter in Phuket?
Yes, you need an IDP with motorcycle category. Phuket police frequently set up checkpoints and fine unlicensed drivers.
How do I get to Big Buddha by scooter?
The road to Big Buddha is steep and winding. Only attempt if you're an experienced rider. Otherwise, take a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Emergency Contacts
Police
191
Ambulance
1669
Tourist Police
1155
Roadside Assistance
Call your rental shop
Practice for Your Thailand Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.