Representatives of app-based ride-hailing drivers, led by Mr. Jiraphat Sophalai, submitted a petition to Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, proposing solutions to address issues arising from ministerial regulations concerning electronic vehicle registration for ride-hailing services. The petition was received by Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES).
The driver representatives stated that regulations specified by the Ministry of Transport may contain obstacles related to complex and inflexible conditions and registration procedures. These impact app-based drivers, particularly those working part-time or with low income who are unable to register, thereby affecting their ability to earn an income.
According to the representatives, the registration process does not permit the use of personal vehicles, resulting in hire-purchase contract costs and high insurance premiums. They are requesting government assistance to ease these burdens by adjusting the document submission process to allow online filing, permitting the use of vehicle registration book copies for cars under finance agreements, and allowing the use of rental vehicles for app-based services.
Minister Chaichanok Chidchob accepted the documents and stated that he would discuss the matter with relevant parties.