Thailand introduces sobriety tests for alcohol purchases

New rules for alcohol sales in Thai stores and bars came into effect on March 28, requiring buyers to undergo sobriety tests before purchasing, according to a document published by the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, in the Royal Government Gazette (.pdf).

Three tests are now required for anyone wishing to buy alcohol:

1. Touch your nose with closed eyes – missing by more than 1 cm indicates possible intoxication.

2. Walk ten steps in a straight line, turn around, and walk back – stepping outside the line, stopping, or using hands for balance is considered a sign of intoxication.

3. Stand on one leg for 30 seconds, raising the other at least 15 cm off the ground – the test is failed if the buyer makes two or more errors, such as lowering the leg too soon, using hands, losing balance, or standing on tiptoes.

In December 2025, Thailand lifted a ban on alcohol sales during lunchtime, which had been in place for over 50 years, allowing sales from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The restaurant industry estimates that the relaxed rules could increase business revenues by at least 20%.