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Renting a motorbike in Phuket is a simple and comfortable way to get around the island. A bike allows you to quickly reach beaches, cafés, markets, and viewpoints without waiting for taxis or being tied to schedules. It also saves a significant amount of time and money.
This article provides practical information on how to rent a motorbike in Phuket without unnecessary problems: what documents may be required, current rental prices, how inspections work, possible fines, and what to pay attention to before riding.
- Documents required to rent a motorbike
- Documents required to ride legally
- Motorbike rental prices in Phuket in 2025
- What to check when receiving the motorbike
- Where it is better to rent a motorbike
- Fines in 2025
- How police checkpoints work
- Driving style and road behavior in Thailand
- Conclusion
- Motorbike Rental in Phuket: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Documents required to rent a motorbike
- a copy or photo of your passport
- a deposit
Documents required to ride legally
- an International Driving Permit with category A, or
- a Thai driving license that allows motorcycle riding
Category B (car) licenses, temporary certificates, “translated licenses,” or any other documents do not grant the right to ride a motorbike.
Thai police know exactly where to check the license category, so relying on luck is not recommended. If you are stopped without category A, you will receive a fine.
Motorbike rental prices in Phuket in 2025
Prices may vary slightly depending on the season and area of the island. The following are average estimates.
| Motorbike model | Engine size | Daily price | Monthly price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Scoopy / Honda Click 125 / Click 160 | 110–160 cc | 250–300 THB | 4,500–7,500 THB | Suitable for beginners and women. Lightweight and easy to handle. |
| Yamaha Aerox 155 | 155 cc | 300–450 THB | 6,000–9,000 THB | For confident riders. More responsive throttle, stiffer suspension. |
| Honda PCX 150 / 160 | 150–160 cc | 300–500 THB | 7,000–12,000 THB | Comfortable for two riders. Stable and smooth ride. |
| Honda ADV 150 / 160 | 150–160 cc | 500–800 THB | 8,000–14,000 THB | Good stability on mountain roads. Taller and heavier bike. |
| Yamaha NMAX / Honda XMAX | 250–300 cc | 700–1,500 THB | 12,000–20,000 THB | For experienced riders. Large, heavy bikes suitable for long trips. |
What to check when receiving the motorbike
Before riding away, record a short walk-around video: overall condition of the body, mirrors, wheels, license plate, and the dashboard with the engine running. This takes one minute and helps avoid disputes when returning the bike.
Also check:
- brakes
- headlights and brake lights
- tire condition
If anything seems suspicious, ask for a replacement immediately.
Inside the storage compartment or under the seat there should be a copy of the bike registration (Green Book) or rental documents. If not, ask about it — these may be required at checkpoints.
Where it is better to rent a motorbike
There are generally two rental options:
1. Renting from local Thai shops
Pros:
Sometimes slightly cheaper.
Cons:
Bike condition may be worse.
Fines and return conditions can be “flexible.”
You must carefully document every scratch.
2. Renting from Russian-speaking rental services
Pros:
Transparent conditions.
Support and assistance with any issues.
Fixed fines and clear rules.
You can request a replacement if something is wrong.
Fines in 2025
| Violation | Fine | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Riding without a helmet | 1,000 THB | Each rider must wear a helmet. |
| Riding without category A | 1,000 THB | Without category A, riding is considered driving without a license. |
| No bike documents | Up to 2,000 THB | A copy of the registration (Green Book) must be on the bike. |
| Drunk driving | From 6,000 THB | Additional consequences may apply depending on the situation. |
How police checkpoints work
Police checkpoints in Phuket can appear at any time and in different locations. There is no fixed schedule. Officers usually check:
- category A driving license
- helmet on every rider
- motorbike documents
If you receive a fine, you get a receipt and will not be fined again the same day — just show the receipt at the next checkpoint.
If you do not have cash, the bike may be taken to an impound lot. You will then need to go to the police station to pay the fine. It is recommended to carry at least 1,000 THB in cash to save time.
Driving style and road behavior in Thailand
Traffic rules exist, but the driving style differs from what many tourists are used to. Traffic in Phuket may seem chaotic, but for locals it is smooth and predictable.
- Sudden lane changes and honking are uncommon.
- Thai drivers are generally calm and non-aggressive.
- Do not cut in or force your way — keep distance and ride smoothly.
- If you collide with a local rider, tourists usually pay.
- If a local hits you but you do not have category A, you will be considered at fault, even in unclear situations.
Conclusion
A motorbike is a convenient way to get around Phuket if you ride carefully. Before renting, it is worth understanding the local rules and nuances and asking advice from experienced riders.
