Search the Community

Thought I'd share my recent experiences with police traffic stops in Chiang Mai. I have been stopped three times on my rented scooter in the last 8 days on the moat road surrounding the old city of Chiang Mai. The police were professional and courteous during two of the stops. All three stops also occurred at strategically placed check points on the moat road, where 6 to 8 officers were waving every driver (Thai and non-Thai) on a scooter or motorcycle over to check licenses. I had to pay a 200 bt fine the first time I was stopped because I did not have my id. I told the police officer I forgot my id, apologized politely, and asked if I could "pay a fine". He agreed and politely explained the legal requirement to carry a driver's license when operating a scooter. He directed me to a table to pay the 200 bt fine. I was given a receipt, with the issuing officer's name on it. The second time I was pulled over, I had photocopies of my passport and international driver permit with me, issued in the US. This particular officer came across as disappointed when I produced my license, like he lost out on a few baht. He did not accept the photocopy at first, saying I needed the actual license. Fortunately, Brother Lung, who lives in Chiang Mai, advised me that I should carry only a photocopy of my driver license/permit because of the danger of having a wayward cop hold it hostage. Brother Lung also advised me to invoke the word "embassy" to respond to police who question a photocopy--"US embassy tell me to carry only photocopy." It worked like a charm, too. The officer somewhat grudgingly handed me back my papers and sent me on my way without a fine. The officer who stopped me the third time was very professional and courteous, but he did say something about the photocopy of my license. I again responded with, "US embassy tell me to carry only photocopy." He handed me back my papers, bowed politely, and sent me on my way. EDIT: Neglected to mention that I was wearing a helmet when stopped. I have read that Thai police will ding you for not wearing a helmet while riding a scooter. Don't know how true this is because every other person I see riding a scooter around Chiang Mai does not wear a helmet.

Good news for those visiting Chiang Mai, the Miracle Cabaret opened in March 2015. Taking over the spot from Chaing Mai Cabaret Theatre. This was also the old Chiang Mai Simon Cabaret, which closed in 2007.