The Royal Thai Police emphasize the “Warning Before Fining” policy until March, applying only to on-the-spot violations with no outstanding fines. Offenders receive just one warning; if they reoffend, regardless of the violation, a fine is immediately issued. Vehicles emitting black smoke are apprehended on the spot without any warning.
On 11 February 2026, Deputy Commissioner Police General Samran Nualma disclosed that under the Royal Thai Police’s fiscal year 2026 administration policy by Commissioner General Kittirat Phanphet, the "6 Accelerations" initiative includes point 5: strengthening traffic discipline enforcement. Currently, the Royal Thai Police have implemented the “Warning Before Fining” measure, instructing traffic officers nationwide to warn citizens before issuing fines for all violations enforceable through the Police Ticket Management system (PTM). Public awareness campaigns about respecting traffic laws and avoiding violations will run from January to March 2026.
The Royal Thai Police announce additional guidelines for implementing the “Warning Before Fining” policy to ensure clear and accurate understanding among the public, suitable for the current situation and beneficial to society as follows.
1. Traffic officers will issue warnings before fines through the PTM system only to those caught committing traffic violations immediately in front of officers, so offenders receive personal notification directly from law enforcement.
2. Warnings before fines will be given only to offenders without any outstanding fines. Those with unpaid tickets will not receive warnings before being fined.
3. Offenders who have received a warning before a fine and subsequently commit any traffic violation again—whether the same or different offense—will be fined immediately, with only one chance to be warned.
However, offenders caught “driving vehicles emitting black smoke exceeding the standard” will not receive warnings but will be prosecuted under applicable laws. This offense contributes significantly to the country’s dust and air pollution problems affecting the general public. Currently, Thailand is experiencing very high levels of air pollution.
The Royal Thai Police urge the public to participate actively in creating a safe driving society, respect traffic laws, and help improve overall safety for lives and property nationwide.