Scooter and car rental in Thailand
Prices, licences, insurance and the mistakes that cost travellers money.
A scooter is the cheapest way to explore islands and the north, at ฿150–300 a day. It is also how many travellers end up in hospital. Read this before you rent.
Scooter rental prices
| Rental | Price |
|---|---|
| Scooter, per day | ฿150–300 |
| Scooter, per month (Chiang Mai) | ฿3,000–4,000 |
| Bicycle, per day | ฿50–100 |
The rules that matter
- You need a motorcycle licence. Thai police check for a valid motorcycle licence plus an International Driving Permit that covers motorcycles. Without one you can be fined at checkpoints.
- Your insurance may not pay out. Most travel insurance excludes scooter accidents if you are not licensed for motorcycles at home, or not wearing a helmet. Check the wording.
- Wear a helmet. It is the law and the most common reason for a fine.
- Do not leave your passport. Shops sometimes ask for it as a deposit. Offer a cash deposit instead.
- Photograph the bike. Take a video of every scratch before riding off, with the owner watching.
Renting a car
A car makes sense for families, for road trips in the north, or on Phuket and Koh Samui where taxis are expensive. Thailand drives on the left. You need your home licence plus an International Driving Permit. Compare total prices including full insurance, which local rental companies often include.
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Insurance first
If you plan to ride, choose a travel insurance policy that explicitly covers scooters and motorcycles.
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Questions people ask
How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Thailand?
About ฿150–300 per day, or ฿3,000–4,000 a month in Chiang Mai.
Do I need a licence to ride a scooter in Thailand?
Yes, a motorcycle licence plus an International Driving Permit that covers motorcycles. Police run checkpoints in tourist areas.
Does travel insurance cover scooter accidents in Thailand?
Often not, unless you hold a motorcycle licence and wear a helmet. Read your policy before you ride.
Is it safe to rent a car in Thailand?
It is manageable on main roads if you are used to driving on the left. Choose full insurance and avoid driving at night in rural areas.