In 2025, truck drivers in Thailand must place strong emphasis on understanding and strictly complying with relevant laws. Doing so promotes road safety, reduces the risk of accidents, and helps avoid penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even legal prosecution. These consequences can directly affect both the drivers themselves and transport operators. Below are the key regulations that should be understood and followed.

 

1. Permitted Load Limits

Overloading a truck beyond the legal limit may result in fines or imprisonment. According to the Department of Land Transport, the maximum gross weight allowed for each type of truck is:

• 4-wheel truck: not exceeding 9.5 tons.
• 6-wheel truck: not exceeding 15 tons.
• 10-wheel truck: not exceeding 25 tons.
• Trailer truck with 6 axles and 22 wheels: not exceeding 50.5 tons.

Violations may lead to imprisonment for up to 6 years, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. nostramap.com

2. Bridge Usage Restrictions

In Bangkok, trucks with 6 wheels or more are prohibited from using certain flyovers and overpasses, such as Krung Thon Bridge (Sang Hi) and Ratchayothin Intersection Bridge. Drivers must pay close attention to traffic signs and strictly follow the rules. nostramap.com

3. Speed Limits

The law sets the following maximum speed limits for trucks:

• Trucks over 2,200 kilograms or trucks carrying more than 15 passengers: not exceeding 90 kilometers per hour.
• Trucks on expressways: not exceeding 80 kilometers per hour.

Violations may result in a fine of up to 4,000 baht and a deduction of 1 behavior point. TQM

4. Time and Zone Restrictions for Truck Operation

To help alleviate traffic congestion, trucks are subject to time and zone restrictions in Bangkok:

On general roads:

• Trucks with 6 wheels or more: not allowed to operate from 06:00 to 09:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 (except on public holidays)
• Trucks with 10 wheels or more: not allowed to operate from 06:00 to 10:00 and from 15:00 to 21:00 (except on public holidays)

On expressways:

• Trucks with 6 wheels or more: not allowed to operate from 06:00 to 09:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00
• Trucks with 10 wheels or more: not allowed to operate from 06:00 to 09:00 and from 15:00 to 21:00

Trucks weighing not more than 2,200 kilograms (mainly 4-wheel trucks): allowed to operate without time restrictions ASN Broker

5. GPS Installation

The Department of Land Transport requires trucks with 10 wheels or more to install a GPS system connected to the government’s fleet management center. This enables the monitoring of driver behavior and road safety. Failure to comply may result in a fine ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 baht and the inability to renew vehicle registration. GoodMove

 

 

(Following these laws helps ensure safe and lawful truck operations. For more information, please watch this video)