QR Code system for Thailand taxis

[Gaybutton]

Apparently this new system applies to regular taxis only, not ride hailing such as Bolt.

I downloaded the app. I think it is a good idea, but not particularly foreigner friendly. As far as I can tell the app is entirely in Thai. If there is an English language version, I can't find it. However, icons show which kind of vehicle you are in, so you would need to be familiar with what the QR code colors and locations in the vehicles mean.
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Thailand Launches Innovative QR Code System For Taxi Safety and Real Time Complaints

By Adam Judd

February 24, 2026

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) in Thailand has officially launched the “Taxi Dee Prom” (or “Taxi ดีพร้อม”) system, an innovative QR code-based safety and verification initiative designed to enhance passenger security and service quality in public taxis.

The system, rolled out under the DLT GPS NOTICE mobile application, allows passengers to scan a QR code sticker affixed to taxis for immediate verification of the driver’s identity, vehicle details, estimated fares, and the ability to file real-time complaints. Officials describe it as a fantastic new approach to integrating such comprehensive real-time checks for taxi services.

The launch event took place recently, led by DLT Director-General Sorapong Phaithoonphong. This is to address longstanding concerns about taxi safety, fare transparency, and driver conduct in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and surrounding areas where public taxis are heavily used.

*Key features of the Taxi Dee Prom system include:

– QR code stickers in three colors: provided and installed free of charge by the DLT

– Purple: Placed on the upper right of the driver’s side windshield, used by drivers to verify their identity via the app before starting a shift. Drivers must register and scan to confirm they are the actual operator, with reminders every 4 hours to maintain active verification.

– Blue: Positioned on the rear left passenger window (inside), enabling passengers to scan for driver photo, name, vehicle information, tax expiration date, and license status; estimate preliminary fares; rate the service (covering cleanliness, courtesy, driving, and attire); and submit general feedback or complaints.

– Red: Located on the exterior passenger window, for urgent complaints such as fare overcharging, refusal of service, reckless driving, or rude behavior.

Upon scanning (via the DLT GPS NOTICE app, available on iOS and Android), the system displays real-time data confirming the taxi’s legality and records trip details. Complaints are transmitted directly to DLT authorities for investigation.

Currently, Thailand has approximately 78,894 registered public taxis (including around 6,400 electric vehicles). As of the launch, over 8,132 taxis had QR stickers installed, with an average of about 500 added daily. The DLT targets full rollout across all taxis by June 2026, starting as a pilot in Bangkok and the metropolitan region.

Non-compliance carries penalties: Failure to display or scan QR codes for verification can result in fines up to 1,000 baht under relevant vehicle laws, with repeated offenses potentially leading to license review.

The project, with an investment of about 1.9 million baht, is part of broader efforts to modernize public transport through digital technology. After six months of full implementation, the DLT plans to evaluate results and consider expansions to other modes like motorcycle taxis, tuk-tuks, or buses.

Passengers are encouraged to download the DLT GPS NOTICE app to participate, helping build safer, more accountable taxi services in Thailand.

https://thepattayanews.com/2026/02/24/t ... omplaints/

[Jun]

I'll be in no hurry to try this.

My last use of a metered taxi was well over a decade ago.
I had one hell of a job trying to persuade the driver that I really wanted to go to DMK airport and not BKK. On the next trip, I discovered how good the bus service is and I've never gone back.

Also, wouldn't any taxi driver intending to scam customers also tamper with or remove the QR code?

[Gaybutton]

I had one hell of a job trying to persuade the driver that I really wanted to go to DMK airport and not BKK.

That is another reason why I prefer to use ride hailing, such as Bolt. On Bolt you input your destination - so there is no question about where you want to go, you get to select the type of vehicle, and you know the fare in advance of even confirming the ride - and their fare is usually less than meter taxis.

[Jun]

That is another reason why I prefer to use ride hailing, such as Bolt. On Bolt you input your destination - so there is no question about where you want to go, you get to select the type of vehicle, and you know the fare in advance of even confirming the ride - and their fare is usually less than meter taxis.

I prefer ride hailing for these reasons too. I still rarely use it here, but am more likely to do so than use a metered taxi.

In Cambodia, I regularly use the Pass App ride hailing service. They have an oversupply of drivers with Indian tuk tuks. It's cheap and very quick. Also, my travel insurance should be valid for travel on a tuk tuk.
Whereas, if I used a Thai motorcycle taxi, there's a good chance my insurance policy would not cover me.

[Gaybutton]

Whereas, if I used a Thai motorcycle taxi, there's a good chance my insurance policy would not cover me.

That is a very good point, one that had not occurred to me. It might be a good idea to check with your insurance company to make sure what kind of vehicles they will or will not cover you for in case of an accident. Too many insurance companies look for any excuse they can come up with to refuse payment.

[Jun]

I read the small print. Ctrl-f "motor", "motorcycle" etc

Some policies won't cover me at all, unless I have a full UK motorcycle license.
Others might cover me as a passenger, IF the bike is less than 125cc. Checking the cc of every motorcycle taxi seems like too much trouble.