Bolt Drives Strong Compliance Across Thailand's Ride-Hailing Sector Through 'Booster Week' Initiative Public Driving License uptake surges more than threefold in 2025

Public Driving License uptake surges more than threefold in 2025

Thailand's ride-hailing sector is undergoing a meaningful shift toward systematic legal compliance, with Bolt reporting that more than 36,000 partner drivers successfully obtained a Public Driving License (PDL) in 2025. This represents a surge of more than threefold compared to the beginning of the year and marks one of the strongest year-on-year compliance improvements recorded in the sector to date. The figures highlight growing alignment between platform-based mobility work and Thailand's regulatory frameworks, as legal processes become more structured, accessible, and widely adopted across the driver community.

The rapid increase in PDL adoption reflects a broader behavioural shift among drivers who are now more proactive in meeting the requirements set by the Department of Land Transport (DLT). This trend signals a maturing ride-hailing ecosystem where lawful operations are increasingly viewed as standard practice rather than an optional pathway.

A central factor in this progress is the strengthening collaboration between digital platforms and government regulators to reduce barriers to compliance. Bolt has been working closely with relevant agencies to improve the efficiency, transparency and accessibility of regulatory processes, resulting in more streamlined and practical pathways for drivers seeking formal certification.

One of the most impactful developments in this context has been the introduction of a real-time Criminal Background Check (CBC) system developed jointly by the DLT and the Department of Corrections. Despite the system's temporary suspension for technical upgrades, it is expected to resume operation by late Q1 or early Q2 2026, ahead of the high-tourism season. When fully reactivated, the system is anticipated to significantly shorten processing times, enhance transparency in eligibility vetting, and reduce administrative burdens, contributing to increased licensing uptake and reinforced safety standards throughout the industry.

Alongside system-level improvements, Bolt's Booster Week initiative has played an essential role in guiding drivers through the procedural steps required to meet regulatory obligations. Through practical assistance, clearer information and coordinated support, Booster Week helped drivers better understand the licensing process, gather required documents and complete applications without unnecessary delays. These efforts have helped transform registration into a more predictable and manageable process for thousands of drivers.

The compliance momentum also coincides with changing public attitudes toward platform-based work. Findings from a recent research study conducted by Bolt and Kantar indicate that ride-hailing and other platform-based work are increasingly recognised as credible and lawful career paths that can offer long-term financial stability. This growing confidence mirrors the rising number of drivers formalising their status through Public Driving License adoption, reinforcing the role of platform work as a legitimate and economically relevant segment of the workforce.

Bolt remains committed to working closely with government agencies and relevant stakeholders to support the development of forward-looking policies and regulatory frameworks that reflect the realities of a digital and platform-driven economy. Through continued collaboration, Bolt aims to contribute to a ride-hailing sector in Thailand that is modern, transparent and aligned with the needs of both passengers and drivers, while ensuring sustainable opportunities and long-term occupational security for the country's platform workforce.

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