The government has set a deadline for drivers carrying passengers through applications to register their vehicles as public transport under the “Ry.17/18” category by 28 February. Those using private vehicles to provide such services face fines of 2,000 baht.
On 23 February 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatthana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, revealed measures to regulate online ride-hailing services to protect passengers and establish standards within the legal public transport system. She noted that the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has launched the Driver Verify system for driver identity registration, with over 34,434 drivers already registered.
Key steps drivers must urgently complete are as follows: by 28 February 2026, they must register their vehicles as “Ry.17/18” with the Department of Land Transport. Between 1–30 March 2026, drivers must complete the process to change their vehicle status to public transport. On 31 March 2026, the “Ride Sharing Platform” regulations will come into full effect.
The Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that after 31 March 2026, anyone still using private vehicles illegally to transport passengers will face fines up to 2,000 baht. Driving public transport vehicles without a public driver’s license carries penalties of fines up to 1,000 baht or imprisonment up to one month. Importantly, platforms violating these rules may be immediately suspended from operating.
This regulation aims to boost passenger confidence in safety, as driver information can be verified, GPS tracking is in place, and clear complaint channels exist. Drivers themselves will be able to work confidently within the legal framework, promoting fairness in the public transport system over the long term.