Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We recommend speaking with a senior advisor before making any final decisions.
Key Takeaways
- You cannot legally ride a scooter in Bali with only a car license; you need a valid national motorcycle license and the correct International Driving Permit.
- Make sure to get your official IDP from an authorized organization in your home country before you travel to Bali, since you cannot obtain one after you arrive.
- Riding without the correct documents may lead to fines, insurance claim rejection, and serious legal consequences after an accident.
- Always carry your national license, IDP, and the scooter’s registration document (STNK) while riding.
Getting around Bali is a bit different than in other countries. Public transportation is limited, so many tourists use travel agents, ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab, or rent a scooter to explore on their own.
Yes, you can rent and drive a scooter in Bali to get around more easily, but there are some requirements you need to meet. This guide will explain everything you need to know.
Can You Drive a Scooter in Bali with a Car License?
No, you cannot. Indonesian law says foreign drivers must carry both an International Driving Permit (IDP) and their national driver’s license. Your IDP also needs to cover the type of vehicle you want to drive.
Bali’s police have become much stricter with international tourists who don’t follow local laws. The rule isn’t new, but enforcement became much tougher in 2026. Police now regularly check for licenses in popular tourist areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Kuta, and Ubud.
What Happens if You Drive in Bali without a License?
- Police Fines: Bali police often do roadside checks. If you’re caught without a valid license and IDP, you’ll get fined. Missing documents usually cost IDR 300,000 to 500,000 (about USD 18 to 30) each.
- Insurance is Void: This is the biggest risk. If you have an accident without the right license, your travel insurance will almost always refuse to cover your medical bills. In another country, these costs can be very high.
- Legal Trouble: In the event of a serious accident involving a local resident, being unlicensed puts you at a massive legal disadvantage.
How to Get an International Driving License
You can’t get an IDP in Bali. You must get this permit from your home country before you travel. Real IDPs are not issued locally to tourists. You can apply online through your national automobile association, like AAA in the US or AA in New Zealand, by submitting:
- A copy of your valid driver's license
- Valid national license
- passport-sized photos
- A small fee:
- Print and digital copy: $69 USD (98.40 AUD) for a 1-year permit; $75 USD (106.95 AUD) for a 2-year permit; $79 USD (112.66 AUD) for a 3-year permit.
- Digital only: $49 USD (69.88 AUD) for a 1-year permit; $55 USD (78.43 AUD) for a 2-year permit; $59 USD (84.14 AUD) for a 3-year permit.
The registration process takes about 5 minutes, and your digital permit will be emailed to you within 10 to 15 minutes.
Time needed: 5 minutes
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the International Driver Permits application process:
- Visit internationaldriversassociation.com
Open the site and select the appropriate permit type for your needs.
- Provide your personal details
This includes email, WhatsApp number, full name, date of birth, country of birth, and intended destination (Indonesia). Also mention the country that issued your driver’s license.
- Upload your documents
Upload a passport-style photograph for your International Driving Permit (IDP) card and images of your current valid driver’s license (front and back).
- Fill in your e-signature
After uploading, type your e-signature and move on to the payment section
- Proceed to payment
Payment can be made using major credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, or via PayPal.
Once approved, you’ll get a PDF copy that’s valid right away. From our experience, it’s best to keep a printed copy and the digital version on your phone, since some Bali police may say "there’s no internet" and ask for a paper document.
Can You Rent a Scooter with Just a Car Driving Permit?
You may be able to rent a bike or scooter with only a car driving permit, as most rental shops do not check. However, this does not mean you are legally allowed to drive a scooter without the correct license. Always bring both your national and international driving permits when renting a motorbike here.
Bali’s Rule of the Road
Before you ride, there are a few important things to know about Bali’s traffic.
- Bali uses left-hand drive, just like Australia, the UK, and Japan; traffic moves on the left side of the road. If you’re from the US or Europe, it might take a day or two to get used to, especially at busy intersections.
- Many people choose to drive themselves in Bali, but it can be challenging. The roads are narrow, and traffic is unpredictable, with frequent honking, merging, and quick maneuvers that may feel chaotic if you are new to the area.
- Driving a car is often safer. If you are not comfortable riding a scooter, you can drive a car in Bali and enjoy air conditioning (which is helpful in the tropical heat). Keep in mind, though, that cars are more likely to get stuck in Bali’s well-known traffic jams than scooters.
Additional Tips for When You Rent a Bike in Bali
- Check the bike before you go. Look at the brakes, lights, and tire pressure. Take photos of any scratches so you won’t be blamed for them later.
- Always wear a helmet. It’s the law and it can save your life. Be sure to fasten the chin strap.
- If you’re new to riding scooters, don’t start on Bali’s busy streets. Try practicing on a quiet side street first.
- Keep a photocopy of your essential documents with you. It's better to save a copy of your passport, your license, and your IDP in your scooter’s seat compartment.
Conclusion
You cannot legally drive a scooter in Bali with only a car license. You need a valid International Driving Permit with the correct motorcycle endorsement to stay compliant and ensure your insurance remains valid.
Without the right license, consider hiring a private driver or using ride-hailing apps such as Gojek or Grab. They are convenient, affordable, and allow you to explore Bali without worrying about traffic.
Another option is to stay in a strategically located villa close to cafés, beaches, coworking spaces, and other daily essentials, so you do not have to rely heavily on transportation. Bali Villa Realty can help you find a villa that suits your preferred location, lifestyle, and budget. Contact us anytime.
FAQ
An International Driving Permit may be valid for one, two, or three years, depending on the option you choose when applying. However, it is only valid while your original driver’s license is still active.
To drive legally in Bali, you should carry:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country
- An International Driving Permit based on the 1949 Geneva Convention
- The correct motorcycle endorsement if you plan to ride a scooter
An official IDP can generally only be issued by an authorized organization in the country where your driver’s license was issued. Some travelers purchase privately issued translation booklets that can be delivered to their accommodation in Bali. However, these may not be recognized as official IDPs, so it is safer to arrange the correct permit before travelling.
Yes, but only if your Indian license includes a valid two-wheeler entitlement and you also carry an International Driving Permit. Make sure you have both documents with you whenever you ride.
Some rental companies will ask for it, while others may not. A company that checks your license and IDP is generally showing a more professional approach. Even when a rental shop does not ask, you are still responsible for carrying the correct documents if the police stop you or you need to make an insurance claim.
- Vehicle registration (STNK): The rental company should provide this with the scooter.
- Your national driver’s license: It must be valid and include the correct vehicle category.
- Your International Driving Permit: Carry it together with your original license.
Before leaving the rental shop, check that the STNK is included and keep all three documents with you while riding.
