Category M in Phuket, Thailand: is it suitable for a scooter (motorbike)?

No, category "M" in a Russian driver's license is categorically not suitable for driving a scooter or any other motorcycle in Thailand. To legally ride a motorbike in Phuket, Pattaya, or anywhere else in the country, you must have category "A" or "A1" (up to 125 cc) open.

Many tourists confuse these categories, thinking that for a light scooter, "M" is enough, as in Russia. This is a dangerous misconception. Thai laws and police follow international standards, where category "M" is for mopeds with engine displacement up to 50 cc and maximum speed up to 50 km/h. Almost all scooters rented to tourists (Honda Click, Yamaha NMax, Scoopy, and others) have engine displacement from 110 to 125 cc or more, which corresponds to category "A1" or "A".

What happens if you are stopped with category "M"?

In fact, this is equivalent to driving without a license. By law, the fine is from 1000 to 2000 baht (about 2200–4400 rubles) or up to 1 month in prison. In practice, police in Phuket often stop tourists at checkpoints, and if you don't have category "A" in your license, you will get a fine. In addition, you may be disqualified from driving, and you will have to call a taxi to get to the police station to pay the fine.

What to do to avoid problems?

The only reliable way is to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) with category "A" open in advance. You can do this through the "Gosuslugi" portal (cost about 3200 rubles, no exams). The IDP is recognized in Thailand and will save you from problems on the roads. Some tourists try to buy fake IDPs in Thailand, but such a scheme is easily detected because the IDP must be accompanied by a national license with the same category.

We strongly recommend not taking risks and getting the proper license. This will not only protect you from fines but, more importantly, provide insurance coverage in case of an accident.

You can learn more in our reliable and honest guide in the article Renting a motorcycle in Thailand: a complete guide for Phuket and Pattaya (prices, licenses, fines). There we have covered all the nuances of renting, including issues of licenses, insurance, and typical rental scams.

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