Scooter Rental in Bali for Foreign Tourists: IDP, Rules & Tips
By the SiapPergi Editorial Team · Updated 15 October 2026 · published 8 October 2026 · 8 min read
Lots of foreign tourists rent scooters in Bali, but quite a few get ticketed for having the wrong licence or riding without a helmet. The Bali provincial government has also tightened oversight of foreign tourists in recent years. This article helps you (or your guests) rent the right way.
Accepted licences
- Your home licence + an International Driving Permit (IDP) that lists the motorcycle category (usually category A).
- Or an Indonesian SIM C issued by the Indonesian National Police under the rules that apply to foreign nationals.
You must get your IDP in your home country before you travel. An IDP that only lists the car category (B) is not valid for scooters.
Latest local rules
The Bali provincial government has issued several advisories and rules on foreign tourist behaviour, including the use of vehicles. Rules can change, so always follow the latest information from the local government and the rental's instructions. If in doubt, use car rental with a driver or a shuttle for long trips.
Documents to carry while riding
- Home licence + IDP (or an Indonesian SIM C).
- Passport or a copy, as the rental advises.
- The scooter's STNK (registration card, usually under the seat).
Riding etiquette in Bali
- Wear a helmet and decent clothing — don't ride shirtless or in just a bikini.
- Don't modify the rental scooter or change its number plate.
- Give way to temple ceremony processions.
- On Nyepi (the Balinese Day of Silence), every road in Bali is closed for 24 hours — plan your trips around it.
- Don't overuse your horn and don't park in front of temples.
If you're stopped at a police check
Calmly show your licence, IDP and STNK. Traffic offences are processed under Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transport. See the fines explained in Bali traffic rules & police checks.
Tips for choosing a rental as a foreign guest
- Choose a rental that communicates in English and sends the price, deposit and damage rules in writing.
- Don't hand over your passport as security; offer a cash deposit with a receipt.
- Have the scooter delivered to your hotel or villa so you don't have to find a rental shop on day one — see scooter delivery to your hotel & villa.
- For beginners, start with a 110–125 cc automatic like the Honda Scoopy or Vario.
Prefer reading in English? All prices by area and model are on our Bali scooter rental page.
Ready to rent a scooter?
See estimated prices by area & model, then book on WhatsApp — the final price is confirmed before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners rent a scooter in Bali?
Yes, with a valid home licence plus an International Driving Permit covering motorcycles, and by following current local regulations. Keep an eye on the status of the draft rule banning tourists from renting scooters on their own.
Do foreign tourists have to pay the tourist levy?
Yes. Foreign visitors pay a Rp150,000 levy per visit since 14 February 2024, via the official Love Bali portal. It's separate from the scooter rental cost.
Can I get an IDP after arriving in Bali?
No. The IDP is issued by the authority in the country that issued your licence, so you must get it before you travel.
Can foreigners get a SIM C in Bali?
Foreigners can apply for a licence under the current Indonesian National Police rules. Ask the local Satpas (licensing office) about the latest procedure.
This article follows the SiapPergi editorial policy: facts are checked, prices are given as ranges, and mistakes are corrected. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.