The essentials in one table

These prices and fines come from guides and rental shops, not an official tariff, and they vary with season and model. For the exact rule, check the Thai Department of Land Transport or the tourist police before you travel.

How much does it cost

An automatic scooter of 110 to 125 cc (Honda Click, Scoopy, PCX and similar) costs about 250 to 400 baht a day, and 1,400 to 2,200 baht a week according to the shops consulted. Bigger bikes and high season (December to February) cost more. Fuel is extra; some shops deliver to your hotel. Compare two or three shops on the spot and ask what the price includes: helmet, insurance, breakdown help.

Licence: what you really need

To ride a motorised two-wheeler in Thailand, guides agree on one point: you need a licence that covers motorcycles (category A for an international permit) on top of your national licence. A car licence alone is not enough. Get the international permit in your home country before you leave, with the motorcycle category. Many shops rent without asking, but that does not make riding legal: in a police check or after a crash, you pay.

Insurance: the trap that costs the most

Shops often include only minimal cover, or none. Travel insurance may refuse to pay for treatment after a crash if you did not hold the required licence. Before you go, read your policy's exclusions on two-wheelers and licences, and ask your insurer in writing. A stay in a private hospital after a fall can be very expensive. See also before you go to Phuket: laws and safety.

Helmet and road rules

A helmet is compulsory for rider and passenger, and police regularly run checks near the beaches. Traffic drives on the left. The hill roads between Patong, Kata and Karon are steep and slippery in the rain, especially from May to October. Do not ride after drinking: it causes serious crashes and voided insurance. If you are unsure, compare with scooter or car in Phuket.

The "scratched scooter" scam

The most reported dispute: on return, the shop says the scooter is damaged and demands a large sum. To avoid it:

  • Film and photograph the whole scooter before leaving, with the owner or the shop sign in the frame, then message the video to yourself to date it.
  • Never leave your passport: offer a cash deposit, or a photocopy.
  • Read the contract, note existing scratches and keep a copy.
  • Return the scooter in daylight, in front of the owner.
  • In a dispute, call the tourist police (1155); see scams and safety in Phuket.

Alternatives without driving

For a single trip, a ride-hailing app or a taxi is enough; see getting around Phuket. For a car, you can compare car rentals before you go. If you want thrills on two or four wheels instead, see quad, enduro or motocross in Phuket, where machine and guide are provided.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an international permit to rent a scooter in Phuket?

To ride legally, yes: your home motorcycle licence and, according to guides, an international permit with the motorcycle category. Some shops do not ask, but your insurance may not apply without it.

How much is a scooter in Phuket per day?

About 250 to 400 baht a day for a 125 cc automatic in October 2026, 1,400 to 2,200 baht a week according to shops. Fuel extra.

Can I leave my passport as a deposit?

Avoid it. Offer a cash deposit; most small shops accept it if you ask.

Is a helmet compulsory?

Yes, for rider and passenger. Fines quoted by guides run from about 500 to 1,000 baht, to be checked.

What if the shop demands money for scratches?

Show your pick-up video, refuse to pay under pressure, and call the tourist police on 1155 if the shop threatens you or keeps your passport.

The Phuket Authority editorial team