No, driving without a shirt in Thailand is prohibited under the Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and its 2022 amendments, enforced by the Department of Land Transport (DLT). Violators face fines up to 5,000 THB, aligning with broader road safety regulations targeting distracted or improperly attired drivers.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Thailand
- Section 47(2) of the Land Traffic Act mandates drivers wear “proper attire,” interpreted by DLT as covering the upper body, including shirts or similar garments.
- DLT Circular 2022/10 explicitly classifies shirtless driving as a traffic offense, citing risks of distraction and public nuisance, with penalties enforceable via traffic police citations.
- Local ordinances in provinces like Bangkok and Phuket may impose additional restrictions, including temporary bans in tourist zones, as part of 2026 municipal safety initiatives.
Non-compliance triggers immediate fines and potential vehicle impoundment under Section 160, though enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Exceptions exist for religious or medical reasons, requiring prior DLT approval.