Bangkok: School bus transportation must be certified by the provincial transport office, the government has announced. Drivers are required to have held a license for at least three years and must have a regular caretaker on board. Any neglect in these areas will face severe punishment.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Karom Polpornklang, the deputy government spokesman, disclosed that data from the Consumer Council reported an average of 30 school bus accidents annually from 2022 to 2023. In 2024, this number rose to 40 incidents, resulting in the deaths of 10 children. From January to February 2025, there have already been six accidents, five of which occurred in February, injuring between 60 and 70 children.
Mr. Karom highlighted that the Consumer Council’s data also revealed that most school buses are ‘unlicensed vehicles from the registrar.’ As of May 31, 2023, the Department of Land Transport reported only 3,342 private and public vehicles were permitted for school transportation. However, it is estimated that over 45,000 school buses operate without permission, putting more than 540,000 students at risk as these buses lack necessary safety measures.
The government has stressed the importance of adhering to the Department of Land Transport’s safety standards for school buses. These standards stipulate that vehicles registered as private passenger cars capable of carrying more than 7 but not more than 12 people, including public vans and minibuses, are allowed as school buses. These vehicles must be certified by the respective school or educational institution.
Key safety requirements include prohibiting tinted film on windows, ensuring passenger seats are securely fastened with no standing space, and fitting songthaews with doors and barriers. Vans must have rows of seats arranged according to the vehicle’s width. School buses must also carry emergency tools like fire extinguishers and have materials inside the passenger area free of sharp edges. An orange sign with ‘School Bus’ in black letters and signal lights must be displayed on all school buses.
Drivers must have a public vehicle driving license for at least three years and a student caretaker must be present during the journey. Additionally, there must be someone besides the driver to manage student check-ins on and off the bus.
As the school term begins in 2025, Mr. Karom noted that many students will rely on school or educational institution shuttle services. He emphasized that school shuttle operators must ensure vehicles meet safety standards and are certified as per the Department of Land Transport’s regulations. Educational institutions are also urged to inspect their traffic infrastructure to enhance safety, such as installing traffic lights and other accident-reducing facilities.