Bolt adds driver facial recognition after Thai warning on safety standards
Bangkok, Thailand Bolt Thailand has reaffirmed its commitment to operating fully in accordance with Thai laws and regulations, while working closely with government authorities to continuously raise safety and…
Bolt Thailand said on May 7 it had introduced driver facial recognition and tightened enforcement measures after a viral incident led Thai officials to warn that ride-hailing standards must improve or operating licenses could face non-renewal. The company said the changes apply in Thailand, including Phuket, as it works with authorities to strengthen safety and legal compliance on the platform.
The new identity checks require driver selfies to be analyzed against account registration records. Bolt said it has also increased the frequency of verification checks to curb account sharing and impersonation.
Stricter enforcement targets account sharing
Bolt said it has adopted a stricter zero-tolerance policy on account sharing and identity fraud. Drivers found violating the rules face immediate and permanent suspension, with no exceptions.
The company said multiple drivers were permanently suspended in the past week for account sharing. It described impersonation as a major concern behind the latest safety upgrades.
Licensing and registration support expanded
Bolt said it is also helping drivers meet regulatory requirements on public driving licenses and vehicle registration through cooperation with Thailand’s Department of Land Transport.
The company said its “Booster Week” initiative helped more than 40,000 drivers obtain public driving licenses in 2025. It added that the program contributed to a broader rise in industry compliance.
Support measures include financial incentives for drivers who successfully apply for and upload valid public driving licenses, assistance with vehicle registration to ensure vehicles are in the correct categories, and streamlined document processes for applications and verification.
Bolt said it is also working with industry partners on wider compliance support, including access to financing, insurance and vehicle registration assistance.
Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/07/bolt-strengthens-compliance-and-safety-measures-introduces-driver-facial-recognition-following-thai-government-concerns/
