Thailand Traffic Rules & Road Guide
Traffic enforcement in Thailand is strict and getting stricter every year. Please read this guide before heading out — it will keep you safe, legal, and fine-free.
Key Traffic Rules
These apply to all riders — tourists included. Ignorance of the law is not accepted as an excuse by Thai police.
Driver's Licence
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to legally ride a motorbike in Thailand. A standard foreign licence alone is not sufficient. Obtain your IDP before travelling — it is issued by your national automobile association in most countries.
Fines for riding without a valid licence are high and police checkpoints run daily. In the event of an accident without a licence, your travel insurance will likely be void. Always carry your licence when riding.
Helmets Are Mandatory
All riders and passengers must wear a helmet at all times. Helmet enforcement has increased significantly — checkpoints specifically targeting helmetless riders are common, especially on major roads.
AP Bike Center provides a free helmet with every rental. If you need an extra helmet for a passenger, ask us at pickup.
Drunk Driving — Zero Tolerance
Thailand has strict drunk-driving laws with heavy fines and possible imprisonment. Breathalyser checks are common at night checkpoints. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% — but the safest approach is do not ride at all after drinking. This is non-negotiable.
Note that drinking alcohol while on or in any vehicle is also strictly prohibited, even as a passenger.
Speed Limits & Cameras
Speed cameras are installed on highways and major roads. If you are photographed speeding, a fine notice will be issued — authorities can identify you from rental records. The fine is significantly higher if not paid promptly.
- →City roads: typically 60–80 km/h
- →Highways: typically 90–100 km/h
- →Residential / small sois: 40 km/h
Turning Left at a Red Light
In Thailand, you may turn left at a red light unless a sign specifically says “TURN LEFT WAITING LIGHT”. If you see that sign, you must wait for the green signal — even for a left turn.
Keep the left lane clear for turning vehicles. Blocking left-turn traffic at a red light will earn you angry horns from local riders.
Road Layout — Ride on the Left
Thailand drives on the left side of the road. If you are from a right-hand traffic country, take extra care at intersections, roundabouts, and when pulling out of side streets. Always check your right shoulder before changing lanes.
Be aware of median strips on North Pattaya Road and Sukhumvit Road — U-turns and right-turns across traffic are only possible at designated points.
What the Curb Colours Mean
The painted kerbs you see everywhere in Pattaya are not just decorative — each colour combination has a legal meaning for stopping and parking. You will also notice these same stripe patterns on the AP Bike Center website as a nod to local street culture.
Yellow & White
No parking during designated hours. You may stop briefly to drop off or pick up passengers and luggage — but do not leave the bike unattended.
Red & White
No stopping or parking at any time within the marked boundaries. This is a hard restriction — not even briefly. Move on immediately.
Black & White
Conditional parking — check for additional signs indicating time restrictions or odd/even day rules. Without a restriction sign, parking is generally permitted.
When parking your rental bike, always lock the handlebar and choose a yellow/white or black/white kerb. Never park on red/white. Illegally parked vehicles in Pattaya can be towed quickly, especially near beach and shopping areas.
Gas Stations in Pattaya
There are no petrol stations in the very centre of Pattaya — the nearest ones are slightly outside the main tourist strip.
⛽ At the Pump
Open the fuel cap yourself before approaching the attendant.
Ask for “91” (say: Gao Nung). This is the standard unleaded petrol used in all our bikes.
To fill the tank completely say “Temm Tung” (full tank). Most Pattaya stations are self-service — you pump yourself and pay at the machine.
Close the fuel cap securely after filling.
🍶 Roadside Fuel Bottles
In areas far from a proper station you will see small shops selling petrol in recycled whiskey or water bottles on a rack outside. This is common throughout Thailand — the fuel is genuine, just sold informally. Price per litre is slightly higher than at a station.
Be careful on North Pattaya Road and Sukhumvit Road — median strips mean you cannot turn right into a station. Plan ahead and enter from the correct side.
Quick Reference
Carry your International Driving Permit at all times
Wear your helmet — both rider and passenger
Lock the handlebar when parking
Ask for '91' (Gao Nung) at petrol stations
Left turns at red lights are allowed (unless signed)
Ride on the left side of the road
No riding after drinking — zero tolerance
No riding without a valid helmet
Do not leave your key in the bike when parked
No parking on red/white kerbs — ever
Ready to Ride Safely?
You know the rules — now pick your bike. Every rental comes with a free helmet, full tank of fuel, and 24-hour roadside backup.