Bangkok: The Department of Land Transport has introduced a new service allowing annual vehicle tax payments through the "Paotang" application, marking its 84th anniversary with this significant advancement in public service.
According to Thai News Agency, the service, now available to the public, was launched as part of a collaborative effort between the Department of Land Transport and Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited. Mr. Surapong Piyachote, Deputy Minister of Transport, presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the service's role in making tax payments more convenient and efficient by enabling online payments anytime and anywhere.
Mr. Surapong expressed gratitude to the Department's executives and personnel for their dedication to advancing the agency's mission over its 84-year history. He highlighted the government's commitment to modernizing public services through technology, aiming to meet the needs of a digitally driven society. This initiative, in collaboration with Krungthai Bank, is seen as a step toward reducing time and cost burdens associated with annual vehicle tax payments.
Mr. Chirut Wisanjit, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, noted the Department's ongoing efforts to enhance road transport systems using modern technology. The introduction of the vehicle tax payment service via the Paotang app aligns with government policies to develop digital public services that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. The app's user base of over 40 million is expected to significantly boost revenue from vehicle tax collections, facilitating the entire process from filing to payment and delivery of tax payment marks via Thailand Post.
Additionally, the Department plans to extend the app's capabilities to include a driver's license renewal service by 2026. An e-Service system for electronic vehicle registration is also in development, set to pilot in 2026 for certain vehicle categories, further streamlining the registration process and reducing reliance on red license plates.
Mr. Payon Srivanich, President and CEO of Krungthai Bank, underscored the partnership's success in leveraging technology to enhance digital transportation services. The Paotang app's integration of services such as the KlubRoad online international driving license application has already seen a substantial increase in users, demonstrating public confidence in digital government services. The bank continues to work on expanding the app's capabilities to include online driver's license renewals, health system integrations, and more comprehensive services like the Compulsory Motor Insurance Act and driving behavior score checks.
Krungthai Bank is committed to supporting government efforts in developing transportation services as part of its broader goal of improving quality of life through technological and financial innovations. This initiative reflects the bank's dedication to creating a sustainable digital automotive ecosystem and aligns with the Ministry of Transport's objectives for enhanced public service delivery.