Organising a motorbike trip to Thailand with your buddies? Make sure you’re up-to-date on the new regulations before setting off.
Bangkok Post recently reported that tourists are now banned from driving motorcycles and motor homes into Thailand. This restriction is an attempt by the country to curb the flow of foreign vehicles on roads, especially in the North.
“The vehicles present problems in terms of frequent accidents and ecological harm,” said Sanit Phromwong, the Land Transport Department chief in Thailand.
Only vehicles with nine seats and trucks with a maximum weight of 3,500kg are allowed in. Motorists have to get permission and let the authorities check their bikes. They also have to make a request to drive in the country through Thai tourism operators at least 10 days before their arrival. Each license, valid for 30 days, costs 500 baht and must be displayed prominently on the windscreen. The total permitted period cannot go beyond 60 days in a year.
If you’re driving in from China, Myanmar, Cambodia or Vietnam, the new rules will apply to you. But if you’re going in from Singapore, Malaysia or Laos, you’re fine. Thailand has an agreement with these countries on international car usage.
Then again, you know never when things might change. So call ahead and check before you embark on your journey.
