What do I need to rent a scooter in Bali?

A valid SIM C (foreigners: home licence + IDP with the motorcycle category), an original ID card or passport, a deposit as set by the rental, and your accommodation address and an active WhatsApp number.

Can I rent a scooter with just an ID card?

An ID card is needed for identification, but you still must hold a SIM C (or a valid licence + IDP) to ride on the road.

What is the minimum age to rent a scooter?

It follows the SIM C requirement, which is at least 17 years old, plus each rental's own terms.

Does the rental have to keep my passport?

It shouldn't. A photo or photocopy of your passport is enough; if the rental wants security, offer a cash deposit with a written receipt.

Is a photo of my licence on my phone enough?

No. Carry your original physical licence; at police checks officers inspect the original, and photos or photocopies are generally not accepted.

Bali Scooter Rental Requirements: Licence, ID, Passport & Deposit

The requirements for renting a scooter in Bali are simple, yet people often ignore them until they're caught at a police check or run into trouble with a damage claim. Here are the documents and terms you need to prepare.

1. The right licence

Riding a motorcycle in Indonesia requires a valid SIM C (motorcycle licence). Indonesian travellers just bring their SIM C. Foreign tourists bring their home licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) that includes the motorcycle category. Details for foreigners are in the scooter rental guide for foreign tourists.

A SIM A (car licence) is not valid for riding a scooter. Make sure the category is right.

2. Original ID

The rental will ask for a KTP (Indonesian ID card) or passport (foreigners) to record the renter's identity. Some rentals just photograph or photocopy the document. If a rental wants to keep your passport, ask about alternatives such as a cash deposit; your passport is an important document you should keep with you.

3. Deposit

A deposit is a guarantee that is fully refunded when the scooter comes back in good condition. The amount depends on the model and the rental's policy: small automatics are usually lower than an NMAX, PCX or XMAX. Make sure the deposit amount and deduction rules are confirmed in writing (for example in a WhatsApp chat) before you pay, and keep the proof. Details are in deposits, insurance & damage on rental scooters.

4. Accommodation address & contact

Rentals usually record your hotel/villa address and an active WhatsApp number. This makes delivery, pick-up and help with a breakdown easier.

5. Rules while renting

Wear SNI helmets, rider and passenger.
A maximum of two people per scooter.
Carry the scooter's STNK (registration card, usually kept under the seat) along with your licence.
Don't take the scooter off Bali without the rental's written permission.
Report any damage or accident to the rental straight away.

Fines if you don't meet the requirements

Licence, STNK and helmet checks are held regularly in Bali, including in tourist areas. Maximum fines under Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transport:

Offence	Article	Maximum fine
No driving licence	Article 281	Rp1,000,000
Licence held but not carried	Article 288(2)	Rp250,000
Not carrying the STNK	Article 288(1)	Rp500,000
Rider or passenger without an SNI helmet	Article 291	Rp250,000

Besides the fine, riding without a valid licence can get a travel insurance or damage claim refused. Police checks are explained in Bali traffic rules & police checks; if you don't have a licence yet, read renting a scooter without a licence in Bali first.

Checklist before you set off

SIM C or home licence + IDP.
Original ID card/passport.
The rental's booking confirmation (a WhatsApp chat with the price, dates, deposit and delivery fee).
Deposit money as required by the rental.
Photos/video of the scooter's condition at handover — see the scooter handover checklist.

All set? Choose your area and dates on the Bali scooter rental page, then send your booking on WhatsApp.