At JeJe Motorcycles, we take pride in offering a friendly and reliable service. We want every rider to have a great experience exploring the city and its surroundings.
One important rule we follow is that we do not rent motorcycles to anyone without a valid motorcycle license. This means either a Thai motorcycle license or a valid overseas motorcycle license accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) that specifically includes motorcycle use. We understand that this may seem strict, but it is a policy based on care, responsibility, and a desire to protect both our customers and our community.
Licensing Means Safety
Riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable and convenient way to get around, but it also requires skill, focus, and a clear understanding of traffic laws. A motorcycle license is not just paperwork. It shows that the rider has passed proper training, testing, and has at least a minimum amount of experience. Without that knowledge, the risk of serious accidents increases dramatically.
Unlicensed riders are more likely to be inexperienced, and Thailand’s roads can be challenging. Traffic moves quickly. Road rules are often unspoken and follow a local rhythm. There are potholes, uneven surfaces, unpredictable drivers, and frequent stops. Even for experienced riders, it takes focus and caution.
Accidents can happen fast. Even at low speeds, serious injuries are common. Riders unfamiliar with local traffic, weather, and road conditions are at greater risk. We have seen firsthand how quickly things can go wrong.
We don’t want to send someone out unprepared with just a prayer! It’s simply not worth the risk to your safety or your holiday.
In Thailand, motorcycles are involved in a large number of traffic accidents every year, many of them resulting in serious injury or death. A high number of these accidents involve riders with little or no formal training. By renting only to licensed riders, we are doing our part to reduce risk and encourage responsible riding.
Legal and Insurance Considerations
Riding without a valid motorcycle license is against Thai law. If an unlicensed rider is involved in an accident, they can face legal consequences, including fines or criminal charges. It also puts the rental company in a difficult legal position.
More importantly, insurance becomes a serious issue. Most renters assume that if something goes wrong, insurance will cover the damage. This is only true if the rider is properly licensed and abides by the terms in their insurance policy.
There are two main types of insurance that are affected:
- Motorcycle liability insurance, such as Thailand’s government-mandated Por Ror Bor, often includes basic medical coverage for you and those involved. However, it is only valid if the rider holds a license. Without one, the insurance company can reject the claim.
- Travel or medical insurance bought from abroad often includes strict conditions. Most of these policies clearly state that riding a motorcycle without a valid license voids the policy. If a rider suffers injuries that require surgery, hospitalisation, or evacuation back to their home country, they may be left personally responsible for unimaginably large medical bills. In some cases, these bills can easily reach into the tens of thousands of dollars, and hundreds if repatriation back to their home country is required.
We have heard real stories from travelers who were left with life-changing injuries and no insurance support. All because they chose to ride without a license.
Every time we hear about a serious crash involving a foreigner, we feel devastated. It is deeply upsetting to see young travellers with their lives changed forever, often with their families left scrambling to raise money online just to keep them alive or fund emergency surgery. In many of these cases, the rider did not hold a valid motorcycle license or were under insured, which meant they or their family had to immediately come up with money to keep them alive.
We recently came across a heartbreaking example of Okemena whose family had to turn to public fundraising to pay for intensive care and brain surgery after a motorbike accident in Thailand to keep him alive. These stories are painful, and sadly all to common.
Building Trust in Our Community
As a growing independent rental business, we rely on trust. That includes trust with our customers, with local authorities, and with the Chiang Mai community. Our reputation is built on safety, honesty, and doing what is right, even when it is not the easiest or most profitable path.
Renting only to licensed riders helps us keep people safe. It also helps protect our community and maintain a positive image of motorcycle tourism in Chiang Mai.
What We Recommend
If you do not yet have a Thai Motorcycle License, there are still good options:
- Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country. Make sure it includes the motorcycle endorsement.
- Take a short licensing course in Thailand if you plan to stay longer. Honda Safety Riding Park is our recommended riding school who run regular classes in English.
- Use alternative transport options like bicycles, Grab, or walk if only staying for a short trip
- Carefully check your travel insurance and understand what is covered and what exceptions exist before riding any motorbike.
- We are always happy to offer advice and help you find a legal, safe way to enjoy your time in Chiang Mai.
Thank you for understanding our position. We care about your safety, your financial wellbeing, and your experience here.
If you ever have questions about licensing or insurance, feel free to contact us.
