Pattaya motorcycle taxi riders have gradually been returning their blue vests at Bang Lamung district office, submitting complete documents to receive a refund of 550 baht each. Drivers expressed happiness at getting their money back and thanked all parties involved in resolving the issue.
On 26 Oct 2026, reporters provided updates on the regulation of motorcycle taxis in Pattaya city and Bang Lamung district, Chonburi Province. The color of the vests was changed from orange to dark blue, which sparked widespread criticism regarding nighttime visibility safety, tourist confusion, and the financial burden on drivers who had to buy new vests costing 550 baht each, leading to a review of the policy.
Subsequently, Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi Province and chairman of the provincial committee, signed an announcement on 22 Oct 2026 cancelling the requirement to switch motorcycle taxi vests to dark blue. The decision reverted to the Department of Land Transport's original regulations, citing redundant costs and safety concerns. The original orange vests were already well recognized and clearly visible, as previously reported.
Today, at Bang Lamung district office, Chonburi Province, motorcycle taxi operators in Pattaya city have been steadily returning their blue vests or jackets to claim a refund of 550 baht per vest. Officials have set up collection points, verified documents, and facilitated drivers who came to process their claims.
To return a vest, drivers must present their ID card, the blue vest or jacket they purchased, and the receipt or proof of payment from the tailor shop to officials for verification before receiving a 550 baht refund per vest.
Mr. Adisak Thamma, a motorcycle taxi operator in Pattaya city, said he came to Bang Lamung district office today to return his blue vest, bringing all necessary documents including his ID card, blue vest, and payment receipt from the tailor, before submitting them to officials and receiving his 550 baht refund.
Another driver, Mr. Thanapong Phromphon, said he was very pleased to return the blue vest and get back the 550 baht he had spent buying the new vest under the reorganization plan. He returned one vest along with the required documents, and the process went smoothly.
Mr. Thanapong also thanked all parties who jointly pushed for and found a solution that allowed operators to be refunded, easing the financial burden caused by the vest color change.
The opening of vest returns with a 550 baht refund marks a significant step in resolving the problems faced by motorcycle taxi operators in Pattaya city and Bang Lamung district following the cancellation of the vest color change order. Drivers who have already purchased blue vests can bring their related documents to Bang Lamung district office to proceed with the return and compensation process.