Proposals are in the pipeline for a large scale revamp of fines and jail terms for Thais without driving licenses.
Authorities have said that the behaviour needs to change and they have had enough.
The department of transport of the Transport Ministry is recommending the changes for two out of date laws stretching back to 1979.
This would mean drivers without licenses could now be fined up to 50,000 baht and go to jail for three months. The previous penalty was a 1,000 baht slap on the wrist and a possible jail term of one month.
Motorists driving while suspended or who have had their licence confiscated can also face 3 months inside or a 50,000 baht fine. Previously this has been a 2,000 baht fine only.
The proposals further state that drivers who fail to produce a valid licence when requested can be fined 10,000 baht up from the previous 1,000 baht.
Department director Sanit Phromwong revealed the proposals that will now go forward for consideration to ministerial committees.
The proposals also include modernization of procedures and other licensing matters.
They are seen as bringing the law up to date and are designed to change the behaviour of Thais for the better.
Times comment:- Whilst the proposed measures are welcome, the practicalities are not realistic. Most Thais could simply not afford to pay. Secondly, Thai prisons are massively overcrowded and could not possibly cope with a large influx of new inmates. One possible solution could be confiscation of vehicle until a license is obtained.
(Source:-Thai Rath)