Skoot

Is Skoot available in my city?

Skoot is available in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Bangkok, Krabi, Ao Nang, Koh Lanta, Pattaya, Jomtien, Chiang Rai, Pai, Chiang Dao, Chiang Saen and Khao Lak.

Do I need an international driving permit?

You are legally responsible for your right to operate a vehicle in Thailand. Thai law requires you have a valid license. Enforcement can be inconsistent depending on your area of Thailand. Usually in the worst case scenario you will be charged a small fine if found in violation. Skoot encourages you to get a valid IDP, the International Drivers Association offers them. (Skoot provides this link for informational purposes only and does not endorse the third-party provider or the validity of its documents.)

Do rentals include insurance?

There is no licensed insurance company in Thailand that provides insurance coverage for damage to a rental scooter. If a company is offering this coverage, it is either an unlicensed insurance product or they are selling you a personal coverage policy where claims will be denied once determined the scooter is a rental. That being said, every registered scooter in Thailand comes with basic bodily injury coverage to the rider. This is enough coverage for most common injuries while riding. Your deposit will also cover most basic and common damages that can happen. Some travel insurance companies

What do I need to rent a scooter?

You need to be at least 18, have a valid passport, and a credit or debit card. Everything is done in the app — sign the rental agreement, make payment, and upload your passport photo and a selfie for identity verification. No paperwork at the shop. An international license is not required for 99% of scooters on the app.

How does the deposit protection work?

When you book through Skoot, your deposit is held by us, not the shop. If the shop wants to deduct money for damage, they have to submit a claim with photo evidence and we approve it. If the bike comes back fine, your deposit is released automatically.

How much is the deposit?

Deposits are set by each partner shop. The average deposit is around 3,000 THB. Larger or more expensive scooters may require 5,000–10,000 THB. The deposit amount is always shown on the listing before you book.

When do I get my deposit back?

Credit/Debit Cards: For rentals under 7 days, Skoot only authorizes your card — it is never actually charged. At return, only the rental fee and any damage claims are captured. The hold is released automatically, usually within 1–2 days. For rentals over 7 days, the deposit is captured and refunded at the end of the rental, typically within 3–5 business days. PromptPay: Deposits are refunded immediately upon the shop clearing the scooter for damages.

What happens if the scooter is damaged?

You are responsible for any repair costs. When you return the scooter, the shop provides photos and an estimate. Skoot reviews every claim, benchmarks it against similar past repairs, and negotiates with the shop if the estimate seems too high. Once settled, the claim amount is deducted from your deposit and any remaining balance is refunded.