Phuket Cracks Down on Reckless Motorcycle Rentals

Phuket plans stricter controls on motorcycle rental businesses, targeting unlicensed foreign tourists and reckless riding. Amendments to Thailand’s Motor Vehicle Act will take effect in 2026.

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Phuket is set to tighten regulations on motorcycle rental businesses in a major move aimed at curbing reckless riding by foreign tourists and reducing road accidents across the island.

Officials outlined plans during a multi-agency meeting on February 6, focusing on preventing unlicensed rentals, controlling traffic violations, and enforcing stricter penalties for non-compliant businesses. The measures come as the Thai city seeks to maintain its reputation as a safe and attractive destination for travelers.

Among the proposed changes are:

• Requiring motorcycles available for rent to be officially registered as rental vehicles.
• Empowering the Minister to designate specific areas where rental businesses must obtain licences.
• Imposing penalties ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 baht (approx. S$406–S$4,060) for unlicensed operations.
• Strengthening tax compliance, insurance requirements, and overall business regulations.

Currently, Phuket has 288 legal motorcycle rental businesses, according to the Phuket Provincial Commerce Office. Despite this, local authorities recorded a staggering 20,901 foreign tourists and 2,745 Thai nationals arrested in 2025 for riding rental motorcycles without valid licences. Additionally, rental operators themselves faced enforcement actions, with 4,437 arrests, 3,727 fines issued, and 1,737 motorcycles seized.

The crackdown also aligns with upcoming amendments to Thailand’s Motor Vehicle Act, expected to take effect in 2026, which will provide a legal framework to better regulate motorcycle rental services and enhance safety on the island’s roads.

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Phuket welcomes tourists from around the world, and authorities are making it clear that they prioritize safety and will not tolerate reckless riding. Visitors exploring the island on two wheels must carry proper licences and follow traffic laws or face significant consequences.