Car Insurance Thailand : Mandatory VS Voluntary Insurance

🔹 1. Mandatory Insurance (Compulsory Motor Insurance – “Por Ror Bor”)

• Required by law for all foreign vehicles entering Thailand.

• Covers third-party liability only (injuries/death to other people if your car causes an accident).

• Does NOT cover damage to your own car, theft, or personal medical bills.

• Usually valid for a short term (7 days, 15 days, or 30 days).

• Can be purchased right at the border (costs around RM20–30 for 7–10 days).

• Immigration/customs may ask for proof before issuing your Temporary Vehicle Permit.

👉 In short: This is the bare minimum required to drive your Malaysian car in Thailand.

🔹 2. Voluntary Insurance (Optional, “First Class Insurance” or Extended Coverage)

Optional but highly recommended, especially if you’ll be driving longer distances (Hat Yai, Krabi, Phuket, etc).

Covers:

• Damage to your own car (accidents, fire, theft).

• Medical expenses for you and your passengers.

• Wider third-party liability (beyond the very basic coverage in compulsory insurance).

• Sometimes roadside assistance.

• Costs more, depends on duration and level of coverage (usually bought through Thai insurance companies or online in advance).

👉 In short: This protects you and your vehicle — not just the “other party.”

✅ Quick Example for Drivers Entering Betong

• If you’re only doing a short trip into Betong town for sightseeing/dim sum/shopping:

  Mandatory insurance is enough.

• If you’re planning a longer road trip into Thailand (e.g., Hat Yai, Songkhla, Phuket):

  Strongly consider adding voluntary insurance for better protection.

⚡ Pro Tip: Even if you don’t bring your own car, it’s still wise to get personal travel insurance (covers medical, theft, trip delays). That’s separate from vehicle insurance — and you can buy it online 👉 [affiliate link: Travel Insurance].