Thailand’s Department of Land Transport Mandates Public Driver Licenses for App-Based Ride-Hailing

According to a report by Thai Post on September 3, 2026, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is intensifying its regulatory oversight of ride-hailing services operating via mobile applications. The agency has issued a directive requiring all drivers providing these services to officially register for a public driver license.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the DLT to organize and standardize the ride-hailing sector in Thailand. Drivers currently operating through these platforms must complete their registration by the deadline of September 30, 2026.

For residents and travelers, this development is significant as it aims to enhance the regulation of the transport sector. Ensuring that drivers hold the appropriate public licenses is intended to improve service standards and accountability within the ride-hailing industry.

At this stage, it remains to be confirmed how the DLT will enforce this mandate once the deadline passes and what specific penalties or operational restrictions may be imposed on drivers or platforms that fail to comply with the new registration requirements. Travelers should be aware that this regulatory shift may impact the availability of ride-hailing services if a significant number of drivers are unable to meet the registration criteria by the end of the month.