Effective tomorrow, the Royal Gazette has published new rules for alcohol sellers like bars, nightclubs, convenience stores, restaurants, etc to determine if a customer is too drunk before serving them to avoid possible fines or penalties. It is unclear what the level of enforcement will be.
Thailand Rolls Out Standard Field Sobriety Tests for Alcohol Sellers to Identify Intoxicated Customers
Bangkok, March 28, 2026 Thai authorities have introduced practical guidelines requiring sellers of alcoholic beverages to assess customers for signs of intoxication before serving them, following the publication of new rules in the Royal Gazette.
The guidelines, issued by the Department of Disease Control (DDC) under the Ministry of Public Health, provide clear criteria and three simple field sobriety tests to help vendors comply with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568 (2025). The rules took effect the day after their announcement in the Royal Gazette.
Under the updated law, it is prohibited to sell alcohol to anyone who appears intoxicated. An intoxicated person is defined as someone exhibiting impaired physical coordination, noticeable alcohol odor accompanied by physical symptoms such as red eyes or trembling hands, or changes in speech and behavior, including slurred speech, aggression, or confusion.
To assist sellers in making consistent and objective assessments, the DDC has recommended the following three standardized tests, adapted from established sobriety evaluation methods:
1. Finger-to-Nose Test: The customer is asked to close their eyes, extend one arm, and touch the tip of their nose with their index finger. Missing the target repeatedly or showing visible hand tremors may indicate intoxication.
2. Heel-to-Toe Walk Test: The person must walk 10 steps in a straight line, heel touching toe, then turn and walk back. Staggering, losing balance more than once, or inability to stay in a straight line signals potential intoxication.
3. One-Leg Stand Test: The customer is instructed to stand on one leg while counting aloud for 30 seconds. Putting the raised foot down more than twice, swaying significantly, or using arms for balance is considered a sign of impairment.
These provisional guidelines were developed in consultation with the Royal College of Psychiatrists of Thailand and serve as an interim measure until more detailed subordinate regulations are finalized. They are to reduce alcohol-related harm, prevent over-service, and clarify responsibilities for vendors, who could face fines, imprisonment, or civil liability if they sell to intoxicated individuals and harm results.
The move has sparked discussion among bar owners, convenience store operators, and nightlife venues, with some welcoming clearer tools to avoid legal risks while others express concern about practical implementation, especially during busy periods.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
