Do I need an International Driving Permit in Bali?
We don’t require an IDP to rent, but Indonesian law requires a valid licence and police do check. Here is what to carry.
Yes, you should carry one. At Oka’s Motorbike Rental we don’t ask for an International Driving Permit to rent: foreign visitors only show a passport. But Indonesian law requires a valid licence for the vehicle you ride or drive, police in Bali do check, and riding without one can cause problems with fines and insurance.
What does Indonesian law require?
Indonesian traffic law requires every rider and driver to hold a licence that is valid for that type of vehicle. For most visitors, that means an International Driving Permit together with your licence from home. The rules and how they are enforced can change, so check the current requirements before you travel.
Which category do I need for a scooter?
For a scooter or motorbike you need the motorcycle category, usually shown as category A on an International Driving Permit. A car licence on its own does not cover a scooter. If your home licence has no motorcycle entitlement, your IDP won’t have one either.
Which category do I need for a car?
For a car you need the car category, usually category B. Bali drives on the left, so take it easy for the first few rides if you are used to driving on the right.
Do police in Bali check licences?
Yes. Police checkpoints are common in Bali, especially on main roads in tourist areas. Officers may ask for your licence, your IDP and the vehicle papers. Riding without a valid licence can lead to a fine, and how much you pay depends on the situation, so it is better to carry the right documents than to find out.
Does it affect my travel insurance?
It can. Many travel insurance policies don’t cover accidents if you were riding or driving without a valid licence for that vehicle. Read your policy, and check whether it covers scooters and the engine size you plan to ride. Our rentals don’t include insurance, so your own cover matters.
Where do I get an International Driving Permit?
You get an International Driving Permit in your home country, usually from the national motoring association or the licensing authority, before you travel. It is normally quick and inexpensive. Make sure it includes the right category.
What should I carry when I ride in Bali?
- Your licence from home.
- Your International Driving Permit with the right category.
- The vehicle registration paper (STNK), which police may ask to see.
- A helmet, worn and fastened. Every Oka’s rental includes one.
- A phone with our WhatsApp number, +62 853-3755-5400, in case you need help. We answer day and night.
What do I need to rent from Oka’s?
Only your passport. We take a photo of it and hand it straight back, and we never hold it. There is no deposit and no payment to book. We film the vehicle’s condition with you at handover. Indonesian renters can show a KTP or SIM instead.
Can I rent without an IDP?
You can rent from us with just a passport, but riding without a valid licence is your responsibility under Indonesian law. We recommend getting the IDP before your trip. It is the simplest way to ride legally and avoid trouble at checkpoints.
Ready to rent?
Browse our bikes and cars, read the FAQ, or send your dates on WhatsApp. Delivery around Ubud is free for rentals of 3 days or more.