The dangerous week and festive season are approaching.“Songkran 2026”When Thai people prepare to travel back home and go on holiday, but this year it’s clear that“speed lovers and drinkers”must be especially careful! Because the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has set a firm start for the enforcement of the“Checklist of 10 Major Offenses” starting strictly from 1 April 2026. Anyone breaking traffic laws will not only face hefty fines but also risk having their“points deducted”and a 90-day driving suspension. Thairath Online summarizes the 10 offenses to watch out for, along with the latest penalties, before you travel.
Starting 1 April 2026, police will cancel the "warning before fine" policy and strictly enforce laws by arresting and fining offenders nationwide to foster a safer driving society. These 10 major offenses are key causes of road accidents.
1. Speeding beyond the limit: Maximum fine up to 4,000 baht (previously 1,000), with 1 point deducted.
2. Running a red light: Maximum fine up to 4,000 baht (previously 1,000), with 2 points deducted.
3. Failing to stop for pedestrians at a crosswalk: Maximum fine up to 4,000 baht, with 1 point deducted.
4. Using a phone while driving (without a hands-free device): Maximum fine up to 4,000 baht, with 1 point deducted.
5. Driving the wrong way: Maximum fine up to 2,000 baht (previously 500), with 2 points deducted.
6. Not wearing a helmet (driver and passenger): Maximum fine up to 2,000 baht, with 1 point deducted.
7. Not wearing a seatbelt (driver and passengers): Maximum fine up to 2,000 baht, with 1 point deducted.
8. Not carrying a driving license: Fine up to 1,000 baht (may also include imprisonment up to 1 month).
9. Driving under the influence: Fine between 5,000 and 20,000 baht or imprisonment up to 1 year, or both, with 4 points deducted.
10. Reckless driving without regard for safety: Fine between 5,000 and 20,000 baht or imprisonment up to 1 year, or both, with 4 points deducted.
The 2026 traffic point system focuses on seriously correcting driver behavior. Everyone starts with 12 points. If you repeatedly violate laws until your points run out, your driving license will be suspended immediately for 90 days. This means you cannot drive at all for three months!
Recovery tip: If points are deducted, you can attend traffic education courses with the Department of Land Transport to regain points under certain conditions.
Carry your digital driving license: If you forget your wallet, you can use the DLT QR Licence app to identify yourself to officers legally.
Don’t drink and drive: This offense carries the heaviest penalties including imprisonment and fines, plus a 4-point deduction (just three offenses will cause immediate license loss). It’s recommended to use public transport or have a sober friend drive.
Check your vehicle condition: Before long trips, check tire pressure, brakes, and lights to ensure 100% readiness.
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