Driving in Thailand

Thai Roads Thailand has a good network of well maintained roads and highways between all main centers. Much of the north-south route is dual carriage way. Road signage follows international convention and is in both Thai and English. Night driving is not recommended on the open road due to heavy truck traffic, who tend to have a poor respect for cars. Motor bikes can on occasion be a hazard, particularly as they are often ridden into oncoming traffic. Driving on the more major routes outside Bangkok and around resort areas is both a safe and an enjoyable experience. A self drive holiday offers the opportunity to experience wonderful Thai culture and the opportunity for travelers to stop as long as they like at the many points of interest in the Kingdom.
Bangkok has a poor reputation for traffic conditions and this is justified except on the expressways. The city is very overcrowded with traffic and this makes driving difficult for drivers unfamiliar with the city. Whilst Thai drivers are exceedingly courteous and considerate to other road users (horns are used very rarely), traffic directions, and entry and exit locations often change during the day. These changes are seldom advised by signs, and none are in English, hence unfamiliar drivers can end up a considerable distance from their desired location due to enforced traffic flows. An increasingly extensive network of expressways within Bangkok now makes entry and exit of the city a simple task. Accordingly, one way rentals from or to Bangkok International Airport is not a difficult undertaking. Fuel Availability and Prices Both fuels are freely available throughout Thailand and prices generally range between Baht 11 to Baht 14 per litre. Most of the larger gas stations accept major international credit cards, but stations in more remote locations will require cash. 24 hour service stations are found on main routes and at the major towns, but rural stations will close in the evening. Road Rules Thais drive on the left hand side of the road. The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60km/h (35 mph) and varies between 90 and 100 km/h (52-60 mph) on expressways and country roads. Police regularly check motorists speed. Wearing of seat belts is compulsory and drink driving laws apply. All insurance is invalid if drivers exceed the legal alcohol limit. Drivers License All drivers must hold a current, non-probationary license. The license may either be Thai, or from a renter's country of residence (with an English translation), or an international drivers permit. Licenses (and a valid passport) must be carried at all times when driving. Driving Licence & Permits An international Driving Permit is necessary for any visitor who intends to drive a motorised vehicle while in Thailand. These are usually available from motoring organ- isations, such as AAA (USA) or BAA (UK), in your home country. Age Cars and Truck Rental of Thailand require drivers to be at least 21 years of age.