New rules on alcohol testing procedures for drivers under 20

Thailand’s Royal Gazette has published new regulations detailing the procedures for testing drivers for alcohol. If a breathalyzer test cannot be performed, urine or blood tests will be used. Importantly, drivers must consent before an alcohol test is conducted.

Urine tests:

• Appropriate containers with lids must be used.
• A private place to urinate should be provided.
• Sampling must be carried out under strict controls to prevent manipulation.
• Containers must be tightly closed.
• The person providing the urine sample must sign the container.
• Samples must be sent to a medical laboratory for analysis.

Blood tests:
Law enforcement officers will transport the driver to the nearest hospital.
Blood tests will be performed by medical personnel.

Limitations:
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 20 mg% is considered intoxicated for drivers under 20 years of age, people with provisional driving licenses, people with multi-vehicle driving licenses, and people whose driving license has been suspended.

For other drivers, a blood alcohol concentration of 50 mg% is considered drunk. (PRD)