Phuket moves to curb reckless riding by tourists with new rules
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- Phuket authorities are preparing stricter controls on motorbike rentals for tourists to reduce accidents and reckless riding.
- The plan includes action against operators renting to unlicensed riders, stronger traffic enforcement and a shared inter-agency database.
- A draft legal amendment expected in 2026 may require special registration, permit zones and fines of 10,000–100,000 baht for operating without a permit.
The Phuket provincial government is preparing to tighten regulations on motorbike rentals for tourists, aiming to curb traffic accidents and reckless riding by visitors.
As reported by The Thaiger on Monday (Feb. 9, 2026), the plan was discussed at a multi-agency meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall on Feb. 6, chaired by Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn. The meeting brought together representatives from the Attorney General’s Office, the Phuket Provincial Police, the Department of Land Transport and the Revenue Department.
The governor outlined a plan to introduce concrete measures against rental operators that provide motorbikes to tourists without valid driving licenses, and to step up enforcement against traffic violations committed by tourists. The effort, he said, is intended to systematically reduce accidents and protect Phuket’s reputation as a tourism destination.
The Phuket Provincial Commercial Office reported that 288 motorbike rental businesses are legally registered in the province. In 2025, Phuket Provincial Police recorded 2,745 Thai nationals and 20,901 foreign nationals arrested for riding rented motorbikes without a driving license.
The Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO) also provided an update on a draft amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act related to motorbike rental services, which is expected to take effect in 2026.
The proposed changes include a clearer definition of “motorbike rental,” a requirement for rental services to be specially registered, authority for the minister to designate areas where permits are required, and fines ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 baht for operating without a permit.
Governor Nirat emphasized the need for clear coordination and integrated roles across agencies. He said the focus would be on regulating the motorbike rental business through a shared database, strict enforcement and public awareness campaigns targeting both operators and tourists.
Indonesianpost.com | Detik
