Driving in Bangkok
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Bangkok, Thailand. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bangkok
IDP Required
Thailand officially requires an IDP, but enforcement varies. However, insurance claims require valid IDP documentation.
Fine without IDP: 1,000 - 3,000 THB (€25-75)
Where to Get IDP: Obtain from your home country's automobile association (AAA, AA, etc.) before traveling.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Bangkok
Daily Rental Cost
200 - 400 THB/day ($5-11)IDP with motorcycle endorsement required. Under 125cc sometimes rented without, but insurance is void.
Insurance Warning
Thai hospitals require payment upfront. Without valid insurance, you may need to pay cash for treatment.
Rental Tips
- Rent from reputable shops in tourist areas (Khao San, Sukhumvit)
- Check that rental includes basic insurance
- Many areas have motorbike taxi stands - can be faster than self-driving
- Download Grab app as backup transport option
Traffic Rules in Bangkok
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Strict lese-majeste laws - never block royal motorcades
- 2Left turns on red are NOT allowed (unlike right on red in right-hand drive countries)
- 3BTS Skytrain areas have motorcycle restrictions
- 4Tuk-tuks have unpredictable movement patterns
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Underestimating Bangkok traffic congestion
- Not using expressways for longer distances
- Stopping in bus lanes (heavy fines)
- Ignoring one-way street signs
Horn Culture
Less honking than Vietnam. Thai drivers are generally calmer but still unpredictable.
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
- Wear proper shoes - flip flops are dangerous on scooters
- The sun is intense - wear sunscreen and stay hydrated
- Keep to the left lane on multi-lane roads
- Watch for sudden U-turns by cars and trucks
Best Time to Drive
Late night (after 10 PM) or very early morning. Daytime traffic is notoriously bad.
Rainy Season Warning
June-October monsoon season causes flooding. Some underpasses and sois flood badly - don't attempt to drive through deep water.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Sukhumvit-Asoke intersection during rush hour
- Victory Monument circle (complex traffic)
- Areas near government buildings during protests
Parking
Average Cost
40 - 100 THB/hour ($1-3)Scooter Parking
Generally free on sidewalks in non-restricted areas. Watch for no-parking signs.
Parking Tips
- Shopping malls have extensive parking (usually THB 20-50)
- Street parking meters are common in central areas
- Many 7-Elevens allow brief scooter parking
FAQ: Driving in Bangkok
Is Bangkok good for first-time scooter riders?
Not recommended. Bangkok traffic is intense with aggressive taxi and tuk-tuk drivers. Consider using BTS/MRT trains and Grab taxis instead. If you must ride, practice in quieter areas first.
Do I need a helmet in Bangkok?
Yes, helmets are legally required and police do check. Fine is THB 500. More importantly, Thailand has one of the world's highest road fatality rates - protect yourself.
Can I rent a car in Bangkok?
Yes, but not recommended unless you're very experienced with chaotic traffic. Consider hiring a driver instead - it's affordable and much less stressful.
Emergency Contacts
Police
191
Ambulance
1669
Tourist Police
1155
Roadside Assistance
Call your rental shop or use local apps
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.