For 2026, Thailand's traffic laws continue to be based on the Land Traffic Act (No. 13) B.E. 2565 (2022), which significantly increased fines and emphasizes strict enforcement of the "driver's license point system" to reduce accidents.
Here is a summary of the key points that car and motorcycle drivers need to know:
Traffic fines have increased with the maximum penalties raised up to four times higher for many violations:
Violation | Fine rate for 2026 | Notes |
Speeding | Fine up to 4,000 baht | Previously 1,000 baht |
Running a red light | Fine up to 4,000 baht | Previously 1,000 baht |
Failing to stop for pedestrians at a crosswalk | Fine up to 4,000 baht | Previously 1,000 baht |
Driving against traffic | Fine up to 2,000 baht | Previously 500 baht |
Not wearing a helmet / not wearing a seatbelt | Fine up to 2,000 baht | All seats must have seatbelts fastened |
Driving through puddles splashing others | Maximum fine 10,000 baht | Maximum imprisonment 3 months |
Every driver starts with 12 points. Points are deducted according to the severity of violations as follows:
Deduct 1 point: speeding, not wearing a helmet, not wearing a seatbelt, using a phone while driving, failing to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
Deduct 2 points: running a red light, driving against traffic, driving while license is suspended.
Deduct 3 points: reckless driving, transporting hazardous materials without permission, hit-and-run incidents.
Deduct 4 points: drunk driving, driving under the influence of drugs, unauthorized street racing.
If points reach zero: the driver's license will be suspended for 90 days. Driving during suspension carries penalties of up to 3 months imprisonment or a fine up to 10,000 baht, or both.
First offense drunk driving: imprisonment up to 1 year or a fine of 5,000–20,000 baht, or both.
Repeat offense (within 2 years): increased penalty up to 2 years imprisonment and a fine of 50,000–100,000 baht (courts often do not grant suspended sentences).
Street racers: penalties include up to 3 months imprisonment or a fine of 5,000–10,000 baht. Supporters such as vehicle modification shops and race-promoting social media pages are also liable.
To avoid fines and point deductions, it is recommended to follow these guidelines:
Monitor your speed: detailed speed cameras are in use, especially on expressways (speed limit 120 km/h) and regular highways (speed limit 90 km/h).
Pay fines promptly: failure to pay a traffic ticket sent to your home will prevent vehicle tax renewal (only temporary documentation will be issued) and may result in further point deductions.
Check your points: you can monitor your driver's license points via the "Khub Dee" application or the Royal Thai Police website.