Bali Car Rental Requirements: Licence, IDP, Documents & Deposit
By the SiapPergi Editorial Team · Published 12 October 2026 · 6 min read
Renting a self-drive car in Bali is fairly easy, but there are a few requirements you must meet to stay safe on the road and avoid trouble at a police check or after an accident. This article sums up the documents providers usually ask for, the licence requirements for Indonesians and foreign tourists, and what to check when the car is handed over.
Documents usually requested
| Document | Indonesian citizens | Foreign tourists |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | KTP (ID card) | Passport |
| Licence | Valid SIM A | Home licence + international driving permit (IDP) for cars |
| Contact | Active WhatsApp number | Active WhatsApp/phone number |
| Accommodation address | Hotel/villa name | Hotel/villa name |
| Deposit | Cash guarantee or a document | Cash guarantee or a document |
Some providers ask for extras such as a return flight ticket or a social media account for verification. Avoid handing over your original passport as a guarantee if you can; offer a cash deposit instead.
Licence requirements to understand
- A SIM A covers passenger and goods vehicles with a gross weight of up to 3,500 kg — which includes all ordinary rental cars such as the Brio, Avanza, Innova and Fortuner.
- Foreign tourists use an international driving permit (IDP) issued in their home country, carried together with their original licence.
- Foreigners living long-term in Bali with a residence permit can apply for an Indonesian licence; ask at the local police licensing office (Satpas Polres).
- For motorbikes, the rules are different; see Bali scooter rental requirements.
Deposit and insurance
The deposit protects the provider if the car is damaged, returned late, or gets an electronic traffic ticket. Ask whether the car is insured, how much the own risk (excess) is if a claim is made, and what isn't covered. A full explanation is in Bali car rental deposit & insurance.
Checklist at car handover
- Match the plate number with the STNK and make sure the annual tax is still valid.
- Photograph and video every side of the car, the wheels, glass and interior, including small scratches.
- Note the fuel level and mileage; agree on the fuel return rule.
- Test the brakes, lights, horn, wipers and air-con, and make sure the spare tyre and jack are there.
- Save the provider's emergency number and ask what to do in case of a breakdown or accident.
A dashcam helps if there's a dispute on the road. Also keep parking and toll receipts if the provider asks for them.
Conclusion
Prepare a SIM A (or an international driving permit for foreigners), ID and a deposit; then check the car and documents before you set off. If you don't have a valid licence, choose a package with a driver. Book and compare vehicles on Bali car rental, or read self-drive vs car with driver.
Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements for self-drive car rental in Bali?
Usually a valid SIM A (foreign tourists: home licence + international driving permit), a KTP or passport, an active WhatsApp number, your accommodation address, and a deposit.
Can foreign tourists drive a rental car in Bali?
Yes, if they carry their home licence and a valid international driving permit (IDP) for cars. Without those, it's better to rent a car with driver.
How much is the deposit for car rental in Bali?
It varies; often a cash guarantee of Rp1 million or more depending on the type of car. The deposit is returned after the car is inspected.
Should I hand over my passport as a guarantee?
Better not. Your passport is an important document you'll need. Offer a cash deposit instead.
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.