Thailand is a country full of rich traditions, vibrant culture, and the occasional quirky regulation that can leave anyone doing a double-take. Even if you have lived a long time in Thailand, you might get told that you should do or can not do something that you have not heard before. Regardless, it’s helpful to know the lesser-known rules that could land you in trouble, or at least raise eyebrows, during your stay.
Below are 10 strange laws in Thailand that every foreigner should know.
10 strange laws in Thailand to be aware of
Don’t drive shirtless
With Thailand’s hot, humid, and dry temperature, it’s understandable that a lot of tourists choose to go around without a shirt. But when you’re driving a vehicle, always keep your clothes on, no matter how hot it is.
If it is not only the insane road rash you are concerned about, the police pull you over for driving shirtless so you can expect to be hit with a fine or even jail time. Keep your shirt on and save your skimpiest outfits for the beach, even if you’re just cruising to 7-Eleven.
Don’t go commando
This one’s often cited, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. Technically, there’s no explicit law banning people from going without underwear. However, Thai law does prohibit public indecency, so if your wardrobe malfunction makes it obvious you’re going commando, you could get in trouble. In short, while there may not be a police squad dedicated to finding out if you are letting it breathe, packing underwear is still a wise move.
Don’t disrespect the Royal Family
The Lese Majeste, introduced in 1908, are among the strictest in the world. Any form of insult, mockery, or criticism against the monarchy is considered a criminal offence, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. This includes spoken words, online content, printed material, and even gestures. Therefore, be sure to avoid making jokes or any type of criticism about the royal family while you’re in Thailand.
There have been examples of people who have been arrested for Lese Majeste, including an American academic who was arrested earlier this year.
Don’t step on Thai currency
Having money stuck in your shoes may seem like the start of a lucky day, but not in Thailand. Why? Because stepping on the Thai currency is illegal. The notes and coins contain an image of the King, so stepping on them would disrespect him. Make sure to watch your step and always handle money with care. And if you accidentally drop a Thai bill, don’t use your feet to stop it from rolling away.
Also: Can you use dollars in Thailand? Yes, but don’t
Don’t fly your country’s flag
Some people love to carry their country’s flag with them when travelling. But did you know that it’s against the law to fly the flags of other countries in Thailand? According to the 1979 Flag Act, waving or raising a foreign flag can result in imprisonment. Only embassies and diplomatic residences are allowed to do it.
To what extent this rule actually carries may vary depending on who you are asking, because you might see foreign flags all around Thailand in places such as restaurants or beaches. Some can argue that you can be prosecuted, and others may say the opposite, with the caveat that the Thai flag should always be higher or at equal height. Regardless, do not risk it and start waving your colours on your front lawn.
Don’t litter
You shouldn’t litter, no matter where you are in the world. But in Thailand, littering is punishable by law. If you get caught throwing trash, you could be fined up to 2,000 Baht and even face a year of jail time.
Some scammers may claim to be BMA inspectors, though, so be careful and they’ll try to take money from you by forcing you to pay a “fine.” One way to avoid getting scammed is to ask for their ID card.
Don’t take Buddha statues or images from Thailand without a permit
Obviously, this rule is more often broken than followed. But be advised that if you put a Buddha statue or image in your luggage, Thai customs will confiscate the item, and it might result in a fine or perhaps an arrest and jail sentence. Devout Buddhists also think decorating your home and yard with Buddha sculptures and images is offensive.
Thailand is a primarily Buddhist country with strong religious ties, so this action is seen as a serious cultural offence so absolutely make sure you have permission or just avoid doing so in general.
Don’t speak any language other than Thai when using a microphone
This is possibly among the most unusual laws in Thailand. The strange law states that you must not speak any language other than Thai using a sound-amplifying device, such as a microphone. Yes, even saying “mic test” or “hello test” using a microphone is a severe offence punishable by up to one month in jail.
Thai law technically prohibits speaking into a microphone in any language other than Thai during public events unless special permission is granted. Originally intended to regulate public gatherings and prevent confusion, it’s rarely enforced today. It should not be too much of an issue if you are looking to show off some of your Thai-speaking to the crowd.
Owning over 120 playing cards is illegal
Thinking about packing a deck of cards with you to Thailand? Well, as fun as you thought it would be, it’s best to leave them at home. According to the 1943 Playing Cards Act, owning more than 120 playing cards is illegal. It could result in imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine.
This law was originally intended to curb illegal gambling. While it’s rarely enforced against tourists carrying a deck or two, it’s still on the books and authorities have conducted surprise inspections. This is one of the strange laws in Thailand that might seem silly, but better to be safe than sorry (or hide your collection from the feds).
The right place to enjoy your booze
Thailand has designated alcohol-free zones that include temples, government buildings, schools, and hospitals. Drinking in these places can lead to fines or even jail time. Additionally, alcohol sales are restricted during certain hours of the day and on religious holidays.
Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines when enjoying a drink. Otherwise, get ready to be punished with a maximum fine of 10,000 Baht or imprisonment of up to 6 months if you get caught drinking at these places.
On this page
| Section (Click to jump back) | Short Summary |
|---|---|
| Don’t drive shirtless | Always wear a shirt when driving; fines or jail may apply for violations, even for short trips. |
| Don’t go commando | No explicit law banning no underwear, but public indecency rules apply; pack underwear to be safe. |
| Don’t disrespect the Royal Family | Insulting or mocking the monarchy is a serious offence under Lese Majeste laws; penalties include up to 15 years in prison. |
| Don’t step on Thai currency | Thai notes and coins carry the King’s image; stepping on them is illegal and considered disrespectful. |
| Don’t fly your country’s flag | Flying foreign flags is restricted; only embassies and diplomatic residences are exempt. |
| Don’t litter | Littering is punishable by fines up to 2,000 Baht or one year in jail; verify any “inspectors” to avoid scams. |
| Don’t take Buddha statues or images from Thailand without a permit | Confiscation, fines, or jail may result if Buddha images are removed without permission; considered a cultural offence. |
| Don’t speak any language other than Thai when using a microphone | Speaking non-Thai languages into amplified devices is prohibited without permission; rarely enforced. |
| Owning over 120 playing cards is illegal | Thailand’s 1943 Playing Cards Act limits ownership to 120 cards; overage can lead to fines or imprisonment. |
| The right place to enjoy your booze | Alcohol-free zones include temples, government offices, schools, and hospitals; fines up to 10,000 Baht or jail apply. |
Thailand is known for its welcoming spirit and stunning scenery, but navigating its more unusual laws is part of being a respectful visitor. Some of these rules may seem strange at first, but they’re rooted in cultural values, public order, and historical contexts. When in doubt, follow the locals’ lead and err on the side of respect because you won’t be let off scot-free just because it’s your first time visiting.
Want to learn more about Thailand? Let’s find out about the things you shouldn’t do in Thailand.
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