YES! An international motorcyclists’ license is mandatory to ride a motorbike in Phuket. If you did not arrange one in your home country you can click here to get a digital version that will be processed online and emailed to you in less than 2 hours. This IDP is accepted by the police in Phuket. Tried and tested by myself numerous times!

I think you really do, yes. Public transportation is non existing in Phuket, taxi’s are very expensive and the roads are congested more often than not and so narrow that ones you are stuck in a proper jam in a taxi or driving a car half your day goes to waste, easily. If you are not comfortable riding a bike (yet) get a few lessons and enjoy Phuket to its fullest extend! For more information on scooter lessons click here.

If you choose to discover on a rented scooter mostly by yourself and are not going for day length road trips you can get a Honda Scoopy (110cc) or Honda Click (160cc). 

If you are planning to ride together and go out of town and on road trips I recommend the Yamaha Nmax, Honda PCX, Honda CB 150X or the Yamaha XSR.

If you are not willing to spend hundreds of repair dollars when you get into an accident  or a few thousand dollars when your scooter or motorbike gets stolen, yes you do. Personally I never rent a scooter or motorbike in Phuket that does not at least covers theft as it does occur in Phuket, just like anywhere else in the world. 

Cheap Motorbike Rental companies in Phuket  will tell you it never happens but when you ask what they expect from you when your bike gets stolen you will hear that it is you who needs to pay for the bike when it gets stolen. If you rent an Nmax or Honda PCX you are looking at a USD 3000 billand there is little to no chance of getting out of it!

I think it is quite safe yes. Although Phuket traffic is unorganized, congested and pretty unclear on “how it exactly works” the pace is quite slow and so should you be. Take it easy, ride slow, keep a smile on your face and you should be good to go. Watch out for children, dogs and yes chickens 😉

Some of the traffic rules that you should be aware of when riding your rented motorbike or scooter in Phuketinclude:

1. Drive on the left side of the road

2. Maximum speed limit: The maximum speed limit on Phuket’s smaller/typical roads is between 40-60 km/hour.

3. Traffic signals: Please always obey traffic signals, including stop signs, traffic lights, and yield signs.

4. Using headlights: You are required to use headlights at night and during times of low visibility, such as during heavy rain or fog. Most of the bikes have “always-on” head and tail lights nowadays.

5. Using helmets: You are required to always wear a helmet. Also if you are a passenger.

6. No drinking and driving: It is illegal to drink and drive in Thailand and there are strict penalties for offenders.

7. Not using mobile phones while driving: Drivers are prohibited from using mobile phones while driving, except for hands-free devices such as a smartphone holder.

8. Yielding to pedestrians: You should yield to pedestrians at designated crossings and when they are crossing the road.

All the above said, traffic enforcement in Phuket can be lax in some areas, so you should exercise caution and be aware of you surroundings at all times.

YES! You will see most locals don’t wear a helmet especially if they venture out on short rides but it’s the law to wear one and it can avoid legal and medical issues.

If you get into an accident on your rented scooter in Phulet, the absolute first thing you should do is make sure that you and anyone else involved in the accident are safe! Get medical attention if necessary. You can always call 191 (Police), which is the general emergency number to contact the police, fire department and ambulance services. 

In addition to 191, there are several other emergency numbers in Phuket that you can call:

191: This is the emergency number for the police.
1199: This is the emergency number for the fire department.
1155 or +66 076219878: This is the Tourist Police

It is important to note that these emergency services in Phuket may not always have English-speaking operators. Try to have a local (or someone who speaks Thai) to help you communicate in case of an emergency!

Once you made sure that everyone is safe, you should contact your motorbike rental company and report your accident. They will send someone to the scene of the accident to look at the damage(s) to the scooter and may contact the police to report your accident.

If there are no injuries and the damage to the scooter is minor, you may be able to work out an agreement with the rental company to pay for the damage. However, if the damage is extensive or in case of injuries, you will be held liable for the cost of the damages.

You should be aware that in Phuket (and Thailandas a whole) driving without a valid license, International Drivers License and insurance coverage is illegal! This could impact claims and legal proceedings that may arise from your accident.

I do highly recommended that you have a valid International Drivers License and proper motorbike insurance coverage before operating a rented scooter in Phuket(or anywhere else in Thailand). Ask yourself honestly if you would operate a car or motorbike without the proper license and insurance in your home country!

When renting a scooter or motorbike in Phuket your rental costs will vary depending on several factors, such as:

1. Your desired type of scooter rental in Phuket.
2. The duration of your motorbike or scooter rental period.
3. Your location in Phuket!
4. The quality and reliability of the company in Phuket you are renting from.

Renting a scooter or motorbike in Phuket that include insurance, delivery and pickup, roadside assistance, customer support and reliable motorbikes and/or scooters will obviously be offered at a higher price compared to the cheap scooter rentals in Phuket operating from the curb side. The Phuket scooter rental prices are subject to quality just like a hotel room or villa rental in Phuket is. Low standards will get you something cheap, compared to when you expect safety, comfort and cleanliness you will pay a bit more.

On average, the costs of renting a standard automatic scooter (110cc-125cc) in Bali is around 250 to 350 Thai Baht  per day (approximately USD 7.00 to USD 10), while a high-end automatic scooter (150cc-250cc) can cost between IDR 400 to 1500 Thai Baht per day (USD 12 to USD 20). 

It’s important to note that some bike rental companies in Phuket will require a valid international driver’s license (it is the law after all) and/or a cash deposit. Make sure to always check your Phuket scooter rental agreement before making any online or cash payments! In Phuket motorbike rental insurance is hard to find, I dont rent anything motorized anywhere in the world without proper insurance. I would recommend you to do the same.

Also ask the Phuket scooter rental company you are considering renting from if they conduct proper bike inspections before renting out there motorbike or scooter to you. Even if they do ALWAYS inspect the scooter or motorbike before signing your Rental Agreement in Phuket, this to to avoid any misunderstandings or issues between you and the motorbike rental company in Phuket.

Yes, renting scooters in Thailand, including Phuket, is relatively easy. There are numerous rental companies and shops that offer scooter rentals. Online booking platforms are also available for convenience.

In Thailand, to legally drive a scooter, you must possess a valid driver’s license that specifically permits you to operate a motorcycle or scooter and you require an International Drivers License. Simply having a car driver’s license may not be sufficient.

The fine for scooter-related violations in Phuket can vary depending on the offense. It is advisable to adhere to traffic rules to avoid any fines or penalties.

No, you are required to have a valid driver’s license to rent a bike or scooter in Thailand, including Phuket. An international driver’s license or a local Thai driver’s license is generally accepted.

Yes, tourists can rent motorcycles in Thailand, including Phuket. However, a valid driver’s license is required, and it’s recommended to have some prior experience riding motorcycles.

When riding a scooter in Phuket, it’s important to follow traffic rules, wear a helmet, and drive defensively. Keep to the left side of the road, be aware of other vehicles, and use turn signals when necessary.

The rental cost for a 125cc scooter in Thailand, including Phuket, can vary depending on the rental duration and company. On average, you can expect to pay around 300-600 Thai Baht per day.

Yes, reputable bike rental companies in Phuket provide helmets as part of the rental. It is important to wear a helmet for your safety and to comply with local regulations. There are big differences between companies in the quality of the helmets and if they are properly sanitized. 

While there are no specific restrictions on where you can ride the scooter or motorbike in Phuket, it’s advisable to stick to public roads and follow traffic regulations. Some areas may have local regulations or restrictions, so it’s important to stay informed.

The fuel policy for scooter or motorbike rentals in Phuket may vary depending on the rental company. In most cases, the rental comes with a certain, usually low, amount of fuel and you are expected to return it with the same level. In some cases the bike comes with a full tank of petrol.

Some rental companies in Phuket may require a deposit or ask for a copy of your passport as a security measure. Never leave your passport as a deposit. It’s important to inquire about any additional fees or deposits before renting the scooter or motorbike. Some rental companies don’t require a deposit if the fees are paid by creditcard.

In case of an accident or damage to the rented scooter or motorbike in Phuket, contact the rental company immediately and follow their instructions. Most rental companies provide guidance on what to do in such situations.