Bangkok: Drivers who pick up passengers via apps are reminded to register their vehicles by February 28th.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the government is advancing efforts to regulate ride-sharing services. This initiative aims to enhance safety standards and legally integrate online passenger pick-ups into the public transportation network. Drivers providing services through apps must register their vehicles (Type R.Y. 17/18) by February 28, 2026.
Ms. Lalida highlighted that historically, numerous drivers operated private vehicles for passenger pick-ups via apps without altering their status to public transport, which created a legal loophole. To address this issue, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has introduced the Driver Verify system, which mandates legal registration for ride-hailing service providers. As of now, 34,434 drivers have registered through this system, demonstrating increased awareness and compliance among service providers.
Drivers who have obtained certification through the Driver Verify system are required to register their vehicles (Type R.Y. 17/18) with the Department of Land Transport by February 28, 2026. They must also change their vehicle status to public transport between March 1-30, 2026, in preparation for the regulations regarding Ride Sharing Platforms, which will take effect on March 31, 2026.
Ms. Lalida further stated that after March 31, 2026, any continued use of private vehicles for passenger transport will result in fines of up to 2,000 baht. Additionally, driving a public vehicle without a public vehicle driver's license could lead to fines of up to 1,000 baht or imprisonment for up to one month. Platforms that violate these regulations may face suspension of their business operations.
Once drivers comply with these procedures, they will operate within a legal framework, offering passengers a service that includes driver and vehicle monitoring, GPS tracking, and clear complaint channels, thereby enhancing safety and trust in the service.