Rider Surge for Public Driving Licenses as Bolt Suspends Accounts Amidst Strict Enforcement by Transport Ministry and DL

Regulations surrounding ride-hailing services in Thailand are being tightened, leading to significant impacts on the ground. The Ministry of Transport and the Department of Land Transport (DL) have commenced strict enforcement of qualification requirements for riders engaged in ride-hailing services, ensuring they meet the criteria for public transport drivers. Specifically, standards that were previously ambiguous appear to have been clarified, such as the mandatory acquisition of a public driving license. In response to these measures, a large number of ride-hailing service riders are flocking to various DL offices to obtain their public driving licenses. The congestion in the licensing process suggests potential disruptions to the daily operations of these riders. Amidst this situation, major ride-hailing app Bolt has moved to suspend the accounts of riders deemed not to meet the qualification requirements. This action places some riders at risk of losing their source of income. This regulatory tightening is understood to reflect the government's intention to enhance safety standards for ride-hailing services in Thailand and to ensure their proper operation as public transportation. However, for riders on the ground, the sudden change in requirements and the complexity of the procedures have created a situation directly affecting their livelihoods. Source: MGR Online (Business)