What is compulsory motor insurance in Thailand?
Compulsory car insurance, also known as Por Ror Bor or Compulsory Motor Insurance, is legally required for all vehicle owners in Thailand, including cars and motorcycles registered with the Department of Land Transport (DLT). Established under the Motor Victims Protection Act B.E. 1992, it ensures financial protection against liabilities from accidents, particularly third-party injuries or fatalities.
This insurance provides a safety net for accident victims, guaranteeing compensation for bodily injury or death, regardless of fault. Por Ror Bor insurance covers medical expenses, death, and disability benefits, promoting public safety and financial security on the roads. While it doesn't cover damage to your own vehicle or theft, it is essential for meeting legal requirements and protecting against unexpected costs.
Why do you need compulsory car insurance?
Compulsory car insurance, or Por Ror Bor, is more than just a legal requirement. Here’s why it’s essential:
Legal compliance
Driving without compulsory car insurance in Thailand is against the law. The Motor Victims Protection Act B.E. 1992 mandates that all vehicle owners must have at least this basic level of coverage.
Third-party protection
Por Ror Bor insurance covers liabilities for bodily injury or death caused to third parties in an accident. This ensures that victims receive compensation for medical expenses or other related costs, even if you’re at fault.
Affordable premiums
Compulsory car insurance is one of the most cost-effective insurance options available. It provides essential coverage without breaking the bank, making it accessible for all drivers.
Nationwide coverage
Your Por Ror Bor policy is valid across Thailand, so you’re protected no matter where you drive.
Foundation for additional coverage
While compulsory car insurance provides basic protection, it can be combined with optional add-ons (like comprehensive car insurance) for more extensive coverage.
What does compulsory motor insurance cover?
Understanding what your Por Ror Bor insurance covers is crucial to knowing your level of protection. Here’s a breakdown of the key coverage areas:
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Medical expenses: Covers the actual amount of medical treatment costs for injuries resulting from a car accident, including hospital bills, doctor fees, and prescription medications.
- Limits of liability: Up to THB 30,000 per person as preliminary compensation.
- Limits of liability: Up to THB 80,000 per person if you’re not at fault.
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Loss of limbs & vital organs: Provides compensation for the loss of limbs and vital organs due to a car accident, such as the arms, legs, lungs, kidneys, or liver.
- Limits of liability: Ranges from THB 200,000 to 500,000 if you’re not at fault.
- Limits of liability: THB 35,000 per person as preliminary compensation.
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Death and permanent disability: Offers coverage for death or permanent disability caused by a car accident.
- Limits of liability: THB 35,000 per person as preliminary compensation.
- Limits of liability: Up to THB 500,000 per person if you’re not at fault.
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Daily compensation: Provides a daily allowance to cover the living expenses of an injured person due to a car accident.
- Limit: THB 200 per day, up to a maximum of 20 days.
Limitations of coverage
- No vehicle damage coverage: Por Ror Bor does not cover damage to your own vehicle or the other party’s vehicle.
- No theft or natural disaster coverage: Loss or damage due to theft, fire, floods, or other natural disasters is not included.
Required documents to buy compulsory vehicle insurance
To purchase compulsory motor insurance in Thailand, you need:
- A copy of your vehicle registration book. This document proves that your vehicle is legally registered in Thailand and includes details like make, model, and registration number.
- A copy of a valid National ID or Passport. Thai citizens will need to provide a copy of their National ID card. A copy of your passport will be required if you are a foreigner.
- A copy of your driver's license. Other official IDs are also accepted to prove your identity and ensure that the insurance policy is issued to the correct person.
How much is compulsory car insurance in Thailand?
The compulsory motor coverage insurance premium depends on the vehicle type you want to insure. Below are the rates established by the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC):
Vehicle Type | Yearly Premiums |
---|---|
Motorcycles | THB 323.14 to THB 645.21 |
Passenger cars | THB 645.21 |
Electric vehicles | THB 645.21 |
2-door pick-up trucks | THB 967.28 |
Vans | THB 1,182.35 |
For more information on compulsory motor insurance premium rates, visit the OIC website or contact our team.
How to claim compulsory motor insurance
To file a claim, contact your insurance provider immediately after the accident and file a police report within 24 hours. Prepare the necessary documents such as:
- Copy of ID
- Copy of house registration
- Copy of car registration
- Copy of driver’s license
- Police report
- Copy of voluntary car insurance (if applicable)
- Por Ror Bor (medical expenses certificate, if applicable)
- Death certificate (if applicable)
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
How to renew compulsory motor insurance online
Renewing your compulsory motor insurance and vehicle tax online through the DLT’s e-Service is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Gather the required information: Have your car manual, registration book, license plate number, and the expiration date of your current insurance ready.
- Access the DLT e-Service: Go to DLT e-Service and either create an account or log in.
- Submit tax payment: Click on “Pay annual taxes,” enter your vehicle details, verify the information, and submit the tax payment.
- Purchase new insurance: On the tax payment page, select “Por Ror Bor information,” choose “None (purchase through online),” and then “Buy new Por Ror Bor.”
- Complete the process: Fill in the details of your car, make the payment, and wait for the registration documents to be delivered to your specified address.
*Ensure you renew your compulsory motor insurance at least 90 days before it expires.
Frequently asked questions about compulsory motor insurance in Thailand
Can foreigners purchase compulsory car insurance in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can and must purchase Por Ror Bor insurance if they own or drive a vehicle in Thailand.
What if I don't buy compulsory car insurance?
All vehicles must have compulsory insurance, which must be renewed annually before paying the vehicle tax. Violating this law will result in a fine of up to THB 10,000.
Is compulsory car insurance enough?
Compulsory motor insurance provides basic financial protection for car accident victims, but its coverage is limited, excluding vehicle damage and other expenses. Therefore, purchasing additional voluntary car insurance is highly recommended. You can compare car insurance types easily on our website.
What to do if my Por Ror Bor insurance has expired?
If your compulsory motor insurance has expired, you must renew it as soon as possible. Driving without Por Ror Bor is illegal and can result in a fine. You can renew it online via DLT’s e-Service or at an insurance company.
Tips
- Always keep your Por Ror Bor policy with you, as you may be asked to show it in case the car accident happens
- Consider purchasing voluntary car insurance type 1, type 2+, type 3+, type 2, or type 3 to get higher protection on the road.
Definitions:
Victim | A person who has been harmed, injured, or killed in a car accident. |
Department of Land Transport | A government agency in Thailand that is responsible for the registration and regulation of vehicles, as well as the issuance of driver's licenses. |
Office of Insurance Commission | Responsible for regulating Thailand's insurance industry, ensuring compliance with legal standards and promoting sector development under the Thai Minister of Finance. |
Car manual | A document that provides information on car, its maintenance, or repair. |
Preliminary compensation | The initial payment made by the insurance company to cover immediate expenses following an accident. It is intended to provide faster financial relief while the proof of fault is being determined. |
Updated Date 1st April 2025