Phuket scooter fines and police checkpoints

Most common fines

Amounts are as of 2026; helmet fines went up on 1 June 2025. The alcohol limit is 0.05%, stricter for some groups of drivers. The only safe choice is not to ride after drinking at all.

What happens at a checkpoint

• Checkpoints sit on main roads or at the exits of tourist areas. An officer waves you to the side.
• You’ll be asked for your license and IDP, sometimes the bike’s papers. Those are in the under-seat trunk — check when you collect the bike.
• If something is wrong you get a ticket. Pay on the spot or at the station; the bike may be held until you do. Carry at least 1,000–2,000 ฿ in cash.
• Keep the receipt. Other checkpoints often accept it the same day, though that’s not guaranteed.

Stay calm and polite, don’t argue and never ride off. License rules are in “License for a scooter in Thailand”.

If you have an accident

• Stop, and if nobody is hurt, move the bike off the road.
• If anyone is injured, call 1669 (ambulance). Police — 191, Tourist Police — 1155 (English spoken).
• Photograph the scene, the damage and the other vehicles’ plates.
• Call or message us — we’ll help with communication and next steps.
• Don’t sign anything written in Thai unless it has been translated for you.

Rules visitors often forget

• Thailand drives on the left. At roundabouts and junctions, look right first.
• Riding against traffic on the shoulder is illegal, even though locals do it.
• Keep your headlight on in the daytime — most bikes do this automatically.
• No more than one passenger on a scooter.

Questions