How to Rent a Scooter in Phuket: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Step 1: Get your documents ready

Bring your original home license and an International Driving Permit with the motorcycle category. Shops will often rent without them, but police checkpoints fine riders and insurers can refuse claims. See our requirements guide for the full detail.

Step 2: Choose where and what to rent

Rent near where you stay: Patong, Kata, Karon, Rawai and Phuket Town all have many shops, and many deliver to your hotel. A 110-125cc automatic such as the Honda Click is the easiest first bike; a 150-160cc such as the PCX or NMAX is more comfortable on hills and for two people.

• Compare an online booking with two or three shops in person
• Ask for the final price including helmet, delivery and fuel level
• Choose a newer bike with good tyres and working brakes over the cheapest one

Step 3: Agree price, deposit and insurance

Most 110-160cc scooters cost 200-500 THB per day, with discounts for a week or a month. Offer a cash deposit or a passport photocopy instead of your original passport. Ask exactly what insurance is included and what you pay if the bike is damaged or stolen.

Step 4: Inspect the bike and take photos

Film a slow walk-around video and photograph every scratch with the shop owner present. Check brakes, lights, indicators, horn and tyres, and ride a few metres before you accept the bike. Our checklist covers fifteen points.

Step 5: Ride safely and return on time

Wear a helmet at all times, ride on the left, and avoid riding after drinking. Return the bike with the agreed fuel level and in the same condition, and get your deposit back on the spot.