Phuket authorities have increased road safety enforcement through 2026, with a particular focus on tourists renting scooters and cars. Traffic checkpoints are more common, and officers are checking for valid international driving permits, correct helmet use, and signs of drunk driving, especially around holiday periods when accident rates involving tourists have historically spiked.
What this means practically
If you're renting a scooter, having a genuine International Driving Permit alongside your home licence, wearing a helmet at all times, and avoiding riding after drinking are no longer just safety advice — they're increasingly likely to be checked directly. See our renting a scooter or car guide and driving laws & common fines guide for what's actually enforced and what a stop typically involves.
Evening transport
For nights out, using a trusted ride-hailing app or a metered taxi rather than riding yourself remains the lower-risk option, particularly around Patong and other nightlife areas.