I've Been Driving in Thailand for Over 20 Years. Here's What I Wish Every Foreigner Knew.

When people think about Thailand, they picture white sand beaches, bustling markets, beautiful temples and incredible food. Very few think about the roads. Yet for anyone planning to live here, retire here or even spend a few weeks exploring beyond the tourist resorts, driving quickly becomes part of everyday life.

I've been driving in Thailand for more than twenty years. I've driven thousands of kilometres across Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Isaan and countless places in between. I genuinely enjoy driving here, but I also have enormous respect for it because Thailand's roads can be completely unforgiving if you underestimate them.

The Biggest Mistake I See

Every week I see visitors arrive full of confidence, hire a motorcycle within half an hour of leaving the airport and head out into traffic with little or no experience. Some have never ridden before, some don't hold the correct licence, and many haven't checked whether they're insured.

Thailand's Road Safety Reality

Official figures show that 17,447 people lost their lives on Thailand's roads during 2025, with motorcyclists accounting for the largest proportion of those fatalities. Behind every number is a family whose life changed forever.

The Insurance Mistake

Many travel insurance policies only cover motorcycle riding if you hold the correct licence, have an International Driving Permit where required, wear an approved helmet and comply with all policy conditions. If you don't, your insurer may reject your claim.

Hospital Bills

Thailand offers excellent healthcare, but serious motorcycle accidents can result in hospital bills running into hundreds of thousands of baht. Proper insurance and legal documentation are essential before riding.

Why We Built the Vehicles & Driving Hub

THAIBK's new Vehicles & Driving hub brings together comprehensive guides covering licences, buying vehicles, insurance, accidents, police checkpoints, toll roads, dashcams, driving laws and much more. The aim is simple: help you enjoy the freedom of driving in Thailand while avoiding costly mistakes.

Drive Smart. Arrive Safely.

Thailand is an incredible country to explore by road. Take time to understand the rules, check your insurance, carry the correct documents and drive defensively. We hope our Vehicles & Driving hub helps you enjoy every mile safely.