Getting around Bali: scooters, cars, licences, taxis and ride-hailing

The short version

Most residents and visitors use a scooter, a car with a driver, or ride-hailing apps. Driving yourself is legal only with the right licence. Police checks and insurance problems are where most expats get into trouble.

Driving licences: what is allowed

• Allowed: driving a scooter or car with a valid home-country licence plus a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Community and travel sources say <u>most foreign tourists need both</u>. Bali's own travel guide says the IDP is required to rent a scooter.
• Check the category: the IDP must cover the vehicle you ride. A car-only licence or IDP category does not cover a motorbike. Check the motorcycle category on both documents.
• Prohibited / risky: riding with no licence, or with a licence that does not cover motorbikes. Bali traffic police check both documents at roadside stops. You can expect a fine, and your insurance may refuse a claim after an accident.
• Long-term residents: if you hold a stay permit (KITAS), an IDP is generally not a long-term solution. Ask the local traffic police (Satlantas) or the immigration office which Indonesian licence (SIM) you should get and what it requires. Rules and procedures change, so confirm current requirements before you apply.

Scooters

• Rental is the most common option. Expect the rental shop to ask for your licence and IDP. Be wary of any shop that does not ask.
• Wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for rider and passenger.
• Take photos of the bike before you leave the shop, so you are not charged for existing damage. Read what the contract says about damage, theft and insurance.
• Check that the registration papers (STNK) are on the bike. Police may ask to see them.
• Traffic is dense, and road surfaces and drivers' habits differ from what many people are used to. If you have never ridden a scooter, do not learn on the main roads around Canggu, Seminyak or Ubud.

Cars

• Self-drive rental is possible with a licence and IDP for cars. Many visitors find a car with a driver cheaper and less stressful. This is usually booked by the day through a local company or hotel.
• Roads are narrow and congested, and parking in popular areas is hard to find. The Canggu–Seminyak–Ubud corridor is often slow at peak hours.
• For a longer stay, buying or leasing a vehicle brings paperwork, such as registration and local insurance. Foreigners should check what documents are required before buying.

Taxis and ride-hailing

• Grab and Gojek both operate in Bali. Typical airport fares to Seminyak, Canggu or Ubud are around 90,000–150,000 IDR (about $5–8), according to one transport guide. Fares vary by time and traffic.
• Some areas have local taxi or transport associations that restrict app pick-ups. You may be asked to walk to a nearby spot. Follow the pin the driver sends, and be polite about it.
• Metered taxis exist, but check that the meter is on before you set off. Otherwise agree a price first.
• Pay in cash or through the app. Keep small notes for drivers.

Common mistakes

• Renting a bike without an IDP, or with an IDP that does not cover motorbikes.
• Not photographing existing damage.
• Riding without insurance. Check what your travel or health insurance excludes. Many policies exclude riders without a valid licence.
• Assuming rules are the same in every part of the island. Police activity varies by area and by time.

What to verify

Check current licence requirements for your nationality and stay type with the Indonesian embassy or consulate, the immigration office and Satlantas. Check current police guidance before you start driving.