MotorwayThailand
Traffic rules
Thailand
1. Motorway
A motorway is a road specially designed and signposted for motor traffic. Motorways normally have separate carriageways for opposing traffic, controlled access through designated entrances and exits, no direct access to neighbouring properties, and no level crossings with other roads, railways or paths.
Special traffic rules apply on motorways. The permitted road users, speed limits, lane rules, tolls and emergency procedures vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
What speed limit applies to cars on a motorway in Thailand?
Some controlled-access intercity motorways permit ordinary cars to travel at up to 120 km/h. Lower limits can apply on other sections or during temporary operation. Follow the signs on the particular motorway; the separate expressway category has different general limits.
🔗 infocenter.oic.go.th • OIC official summary — 2021 speed frameworks and vehicle/road categories
🔗 upload.wikimedia.org • Royal Gazette facsimile of full 2021 general speed Regulation, mirrored PDF
🔗 network.doh.go.th • DOH — full 2021 designated-highway speed Regulation
🔗 ratchakitcha.soc.go.th • Royal Gazette — full December 2024 Bangkok speed and horn order
🔗 motorway.go.th • DOH motorway — route-specific terms-of-use notices
Start of a motorway.
Can a motorcycle use every Thai motorway?
No. Motorway authorities publish vehicle prohibitions for particular routes, including motorcycle restrictions. Check the entry signs and the Department of Highways notice for your route before entering; a motorcycle’s engine size alone does not establish permission.
🔗 infocenter.oic.go.th • OIC official summary — 2021 speed frameworks and vehicle/road categories
🔗 upload.wikimedia.org • Royal Gazette facsimile of full 2021 general speed Regulation, mirrored PDF
🔗 network.doh.go.th • DOH — full 2021 designated-highway speed Regulation
🔗 ratchakitcha.soc.go.th • Royal Gazette — full December 2024 Bangkok speed and horn order
🔗 motorway.go.th • DOH motorway — route-specific terms-of-use notices
Where should I check restrictions before using a Thai motorway?
Check the Department of Highways’ motorway terms-of-use notices, along with current entry signs and route information. Restrictions can identify the road and vehicle classes concerned, so use the notice for your actual motorway.
🔗 infocenter.oic.go.th • OIC official summary — 2021 speed frameworks and vehicle/road categories
🔗 upload.wikimedia.org • Royal Gazette facsimile of full 2021 general speed Regulation, mirrored PDF
🔗 network.doh.go.th • DOH — full 2021 designated-highway speed Regulation
🔗 ratchakitcha.soc.go.th • Royal Gazette — full December 2024 Bangkok speed and horn order
🔗 motorway.go.th • DOH motorway — route-specific terms-of-use notices
