Renting a Car or Motorbike – What Expats Should Know

If you're living in Thailand or planning an extended stay, renting your own transportation can make everyday life and weekend getaways a lot easier. From buzzing through narrow sois on a motorbike to road-tripping across provinces by car, mobility equals freedom—but it comes with a few legal and safety caveats.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything expats need to know about renting a car or motorbike in Thailand in 2025, including costs, requirements, and important do’s and don’ts.

🚦 Do You Need a Thai Driver's License?

Short answer: Not necessarily for tourists, but yes for long-term expats.

• Tourists (short-term) can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with their home country license.

• Expats (long-stay) are strongly encouraged to get a Thai driving license, especially if staying over 3 months.

• Police and insurance companies often don’t honor foreign licenses in the event of an accident.

Tip: Always carry a physical license. Photos or scans are not accepted at checkpoints.

🛵 Motorbike Rentals in Thailand

Renting a motorbike is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to get around Thai cities and islands.

✅ What You Need:

• Passport (some shops keep it as a deposit, others just make a copy)

• Valid license with motorbike endorsement (or Thai license)

• Cash deposit or signed agreement for damages

💸 Typical Prices:

• Automatic scooter (110–125cc): ฿150–฿300/day

• Monthly rentals: ฿2,500–฿4,500/month, depending on location and bike condition

⚠️ Important Notes:

• Wear a helmet at all times (it's the law).

• Never rent or ride without a license—police fine ฿500+ regularly.

• Check tires, brakes, and lights before accepting any bike.

• Rainy season roads can be slippery—ride carefully.

🚗 Renting a Car in Thailand

For families, weekend travelers, or anyone needing more space and comfort, renting a car is a great option.

✅ Documents Required:

• Passport

• International Driving Permit or Thai license

• Credit card for security deposit

💸 Rental Costs:

• Economy car: ฿800–฿1,500/day

• SUV or 7-seater: ฿1,500–฿3,000/day

• Monthly discounts available with local agencies

Popular rental companies: Thai Rent A Car, Drive Car Rental, Chic Car Rent, Avis, Budget

🛑 Insurance: A Must-Have

Whether it’s a bike or a car, make sure you are covered with proper insurance.

• Basic rental often includes limited third-party coverage.

• Ask for CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or full coverage—adds ~฿200–฿500/day.

• Some credit cards offer car rental coverage—check in advance.

📍 Where to Rent – Local vs. International Agencies

• Local shops (especially in Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui) offer cheaper deals.

• International chains offer better insurance, service, and safer transactions.

Tip: Use Rentalcars.com, Skyscanner, or local Facebook groups to compare offers.

🧭 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signing contracts without reading them—check for damage clauses.

• Leaving your passport as collateral (offer a copy + cash instead).

• Not photographing the vehicle before and after rental.

• Riding motorbikes drunk or shirtless (yes, both are illegal and fined).

• Assuming accident insurance will cover you without a proper license.

Renting a motorbike or car in Thailand is convenient and affordable, but only if you play by the rules. Make sure you hold the correct license, wear safety gear, read the fine print, and get insured. Whether you're cruising through Chiang Mai’s countryside or escaping Bangkok for a beach weekend, having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore Thailand on your terms.