Police, Transport Dept Link Crime Data for Driver Checks

The Royal Thai Police and the Department of Land Transport are moving to electronically link criminal record data to strengthen screening of drivers applying for or renewing licences. The initiative aims to improve public safety while speeding up background checks for motorists and public transport operators.

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On 3 March 2026, Pol Gen Niran Lueamsri, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police responsible for legal and casework affairs, revealed that a meeting had been held on 2 March 2026 with Sorapong Paitoonphong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport. The discussions focused on establishing electronic data connections between the Royal Thai Police and the Department of Land Transport to access criminal history records for individuals applying for or renewing driving licences and licences for vehicle operators.

The working group included Pol Maj Gen Phanthong Suwanjuta, Deputy Commissioner of the Police Civil Service Commission; Pol Col Somphon Jaidee, Deputy Commander of Technology Crime Suppression Division 2 and Pol Col Pittaya Phutthanu, Deputy Commander of the Criminal Records Division, along with relevant officials. The meeting took place in Meeting Room 1, Building 1, at the Department of Land Transport.

According to Pol Gen Niran, the electronic coordination will enhance the accuracy and speed of background checks. It is intended to increase efficiency in verifying criminal records of applicants and to screen those seeking to operate public transport and commercial vehicles, thereby strengthening public safety.

The system is also expected to reduce administrative steps and travelling time for members of the public dealing with government agencies. By digitising data exchanges, both agencies aim to streamline procedures while maintaining oversight standards.

During the meeting, officials also discussed drafting a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formalise cooperation on electronic data linkage between the Royal Thai Police and the Department of Land Transport. The proposed MOU would set out responsibilities and operational frameworks to ensure effective and concrete implementation.

Thaitabloid reported that further details on the timeline for signing the MOU and launching the system have not yet been announced. Officials indicated that both agencies will continue coordination to ensure the project delivers maximum efficiency in practice.

Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 4 Mar 2026