Driving in Bali
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Bali, Indonesia. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Bali
IDP Required
Indonesia requires an IDP. Police checkpoints are common in tourist areas like Canggu and Seminyak and specifically target tourists without proper documentation.
Fine without IDP: 500,000 - 1,000,000 IDR (€30-60)
Where to Get IDP: Must be obtained in your home country. Some agents in Bali offer 'local licenses' but these are not legally valid for tourists.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Bali
Daily Rental Cost
50,000 - 100,000 IDR/day ($3-6)IDP with motorcycle endorsement required. Local 'tourist licenses' are a scam. Without IDP, insurance is void.
Insurance Warning
Bali has high accident rates. Without IDP, you're responsible for all medical costs (can be $10,000+) and vehicle damage.
Rental Tips
- Inspect the scooter thoroughly - many have hidden damage
- Take photos of any existing scratches or dents
- Rent newer automatic scooters (beat-up ones have brake issues)
- Never ride without IDP - police target tourists for fines
- Wear closed shoes and long pants - burns from exhaust are common
Traffic Rules in Bali
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Temple processions (religious ceremonies) block roads - wait respectfully
- 2Dogs frequently sleep on roads - drive carefully
- 3Monkeys may approach at certain temples - don't stop near them
- 4Many roads are unnamed or poorly marked
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Driving barefoot or in flip flops
- Attempting steep hills on underpowered scooters
- Not carrying cash for police fines
- Driving after drinking (common and dangerous)
Horn Culture
Light honking around blind corners is expected and helps prevent accidents on narrow roads.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
500,000 IDR ($32)
No Helmet
250,000 IDR ($16)
No IDP
500,000 - 1,000,000 IDR ($32-64)
Red Light
500,000 IDR ($32)
Drink Driving
750,000+ IDR ($48+)
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Roads are very narrow with sudden drops and no barriers
- Stray dogs are common - don't swerve suddenly to avoid them
- Gravel on corners causes many accidents - take turns slowly
- Drink driving is the #1 cause of tourist accidents
Best Time to Drive
Early morning before 9 AM. Avoid sunset time when visibility drops and drunk drivers increase.
Rainy Season Warning
November-March rainy season makes roads extremely slippery. Sudden tropical downpours reduce visibility to near zero.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Canggu shortcut roads (very narrow, aggressive traffic)
- Mountain roads at night (no lighting, steep drops)
- Kuta during peak shopping hours
Parking
Average Cost
2,000 - 10,000 IDR ($0.15 - $0.60)Scooter Parking
Easy to find. Follow where locals park - if no bikes, probably restricted.
Parking Tips
- Beach parking attendants expect IDR 5,000-10,000
- Hotels and villas usually have free parking
- Don't block temple entrances or residential driveways
FAQ: Driving in Bali
Do police really check for IDP in Bali?
Yes, absolutely. Police checkpoints targeting tourists are common in Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud. Fines are IDR 500,000-1,000,000 on the spot. They may also detain your scooter.
Should I rent a car or scooter in Bali?
Scooters are far more practical due to narrow roads and heavy traffic. Cars are useful for families or trips to remote areas. Many tourists hire a driver for day trips instead.
Is Bali traffic dangerous?
Yes. Bali has one of Indonesia's highest accident rates. Main risks are drunk driving (including tourists), narrow roads, and inexperienced riders. Always wear a helmet and drive defensively.
Emergency Contacts
Police
112 or 110
Ambulance
112 or 118
Tourist Police
0361 759687
Roadside Assistance
Call your rental shop
Practice for Your Indonesia Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.