Thailand's Ride-Hailing Apps Face Safety Deadline in

Thailand’s Transport Ministry has issued a one-month deadline for ride-hailing platforms to enhance passenger safety measures or face potential licence suspension. This directive comes as Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat announced new rules that require drivers to obtain public driving licences, install CCTV cameras in vehicles, and provide passenger insurance coverage. The initiative aims to elevate standards for app-based taxi services, a move underscored by Bolt’s current efforts to renew its operating licence.

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Recent developments have sparked these regulatory measures to ensure fair competition and public safety across Thailand’s ride-hailing sector. Platforms must now demonstrate the percentage of drivers with public driving licences and submit necessary plans for those yet to acquire them. Additionally, systems for random inspections, face detection technology, and comprehensive complaint handling must be implemented. Failure to comply with these measures within the stipulated month could lead to licence suspension or revocation.

The ministry emphasized that these regulations are newly introduced, allowing platforms to make adjustments during licence renewal. These requirements extend beyond Bolt, impacting all operators, who may continue normal operations during the transition. Siripong indicated that similar safety enhancements, including CCTV installations, might be applied to motorcycle taxis in the future. Meanwhile, the Department of Land Transport has ramped up training for public driving licences and is addressing the cost challenges drivers face entering the legal system.

Looking ahead, the Transport Ministry is drafting new regulations to alleviate operational costs for legal ride-hailing drivers, potentially removing the need to register vehicles under the costly Ror Yor 18 category. Instead, drivers adhering to the primary safety measures will receive government certification stickers. This approach includes exploring a vehicle rental model with included insurance to encourage drivers into the regulatory fold. These changes promise gradual improvements in safety and fairness within Thailand’s app-based taxi industry.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 14 May 2026