Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Ride a Scooter in Bali?
Yes: bring your home licence with a motorcycle category plus an IDP that covers motorcycles. Fines, helmet rules, the tourist levy and the status of the proposed tourist scooter ban.
Image: © siappergi.com · licence
This is the most common question we get from travellers on siappergi.com. The short answer: yes, carry your home licence with a motorcycle category and an International Driving Permit (IDP) that covers motorcycles. Here's why, and what else you need to know.
What the rental asks for
On siappergi.com, to rent a scooter you need:
- A passport (photographed, never left as a deposit), minimum age 17
- A valid licence: your home licence plus an IDP with the motorcycle category (A)
- A 2-day minimum rental, paid on delivery
What the law says
| Rule | Basis | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Valid licence required | Law 22/2009, Article 281 | 4 months' detention or Rp1,000,000 fine |
| Approved (SNI) helmet for rider and passenger | Law 22/2009, Article 106(8) | 1 month or Rp250,000 (Article 291) |
| Carry the vehicle registration (STNK) | Law 22/2009, Article 288 | 2 months or Rp500,000 |
The STNK is usually kept under the seat of a rental scooter. Check it's there before you ride.
Why the IDP matters beyond fines
- Police checks are common on tourist routes in Kuta, Canggu and Ubud.
- Travel insurance: many policies refuse scooter accident claims when the rider wasn't licensed for motorcycles at the destination.
- Get it before you fly. An IDP is issued in your home country; you can't get one in Bali.
The tourist levy
Since 14 February 2024, international visitors pay a Rp150,000 levy per visit through the official Love Bali system. It's separate from any rental paperwork.
Is there a tourist scooter ban in 2026?
On 24 April 2026 the Bali provincial government presented a draft regulation on quality tourism to the provincial parliament that includes stopping tourists from renting motorbikes. How it would work, and the penalties, were still to be discussed. As of mid-October 2026 we have not seen an announcement that it has been passed or taken effect. Licensed riders wearing helmets can still rent. siappergi.com keeps a sourced timeline in Bali scooter rental rules 2026. Ignore chain messages that quote a start date without a regulation number.
No IDP? Your options
- Car with a driver: only your ID is needed.
- Ride-hailing apps for short trips.
- Shuttles between areas, then walk or cycle locally.
FAQ
Do I need an IDP to rent a scooter in Bali?
Yes. Carry your home licence with a motorcycle category plus an IDP that covers motorcycles.
Can I ride in Bali with just my car licence?
A car-only licence doesn't cover motorcycles. Without a motorcycle category you risk fines and insurance refusal.
Will the rental keep my passport?
It shouldn't. Reputable rentals photograph your passport. siappergi.com takes payment on delivery instead of holding documents.
Indonesian version: syarat sewa motor Bali.
