
For all motorcyclists or "two-wheelers," riding safely and in accordance with the law is the foremost priority. This not only reduces the risk of accidents but also helps protect your wallet from fines.
Here are four common offenses that motorbike riders often get fined for, along with the latest "penalty fines" rates.
This is the most important safety gear, yet it is also the most frequently violated rule. The law specifies penalties as follows:
Rider not wearing a helmet: fine up to 2,000 baht.
Passenger not wearing a helmet: fine up to 4,000 baht, imposed on the rider.
A caution: if you are the rider and your passenger refuses to wear a helmet, you are responsible for paying the fine. So always remind your passenger to wear a helmet before riding.
For those who like to customize their bikes for a louder sound, causing disturbance to others on the road and the community, the penalty is severe.
Penalty: fine up to 4,000 baht.
Many people think paying the annual tax and storing the disc under the seat or in a bag is enough, but the law clearly requires it to be "displayed" visibly.
Penalty: fine up to 2,000 baht.
Recommendation: attach the tax disc inside a waterproof capsule and fix it on the vehicle where officials can easily see it.
Side mirrors are essential for visibility when changing lanes or turning. Removing them for aesthetics or easier maneuvering is very dangerous behavior.
Penalty: fine up to 2,000 baht.
Offense/Violation | Penalty Fine | Additional Details |
Not wearing a helmet (rider) | Up to 2,000 baht | For the rider's own safety |
Passenger not wearing a helmet | Up to 4,000 baht | Fine imposed on the rider (rider responsible) |
Excessively loud exhaust | Up to 4,000 baht | Causes noise pollution to the public |
Failure to display tax disc | Up to 2,000 baht | Must be displayed in a clearly visible place |
No side mirrors | Up to 2,000 baht | Essential safety equipment |
Source: Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522 (1979)