🇮🇩 Bali · Travel guide

Renting a scooter in Bali: licence, rules, costs & safety

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Riding a scooter is the most flexible way to explore Bali — and the most common way visitors get into trouble. Get these basics right before you hand over your passport or cash.

1. Licence and International Driving Permit

To ride legally in Indonesia, foreign visitors need a valid driving licence from their home country that covers motorcycles, together with an International Driving Permit (IDP) that also includes the motorcycle category. A car-only licence is not enough. Police checks on tourists are common in busy areas, and riding without the right documents can mean a fine — and your travel insurance may refuse to pay after an accident.

2. Helmets and documents

  • Helmets are compulsory for rider and passenger. Ask for a helmet that fits and has a working strap.
  • Carry the scooter's registration paper (STNK), which the rental should give you.
  • Take photos of the scooter's condition before you ride away, including existing scratches.

3. Prices, deposits and what's included

Market prices depend on the model, season and rental length: small automatics are the cheapest, larger scooters such as the NMAX or PCX cost more, and weekly or monthly rentals usually lower the daily rate. Treat any figure you read online as an estimate and confirm the final price in writing. Some rentals ask for a cash deposit or a copy of your passport; avoid leaving your original passport if you can. For current price ranges by area, see the Bali scooter rental pages on our sister site SiapPergi.

4. Delivery and pickup

Most rentals deliver to hotels and villas in Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud and Sanur, and some to the airport. Agree on delivery and pickup times, fuel level and what happens if the scooter breaks down.

5. Riding safely

  • Ride slowly until you're used to the traffic — scooters weave, and cars often overtake closely.
  • Avoid riding at night on unfamiliar roads and after rain on steep or sandy roads (Uluwatu, Nusa Penida).
  • Fuel is sold at petrol stations and in bottles at roadside stalls.
  • Check that your travel insurance covers scooter riding with your licence category.

Not comfortable riding?

Hire a car with a driver or use ride-hailing apps instead — see getting around Bali. For trips beyond Bali, our route guides cover Bali to Lombok and the Gili Islands.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a scooter in Bali with a car licence?

To ride legally you need a licence that covers motorcycles plus an International Driving Permit with the motorcycle category. A car-only licence is not enough.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Bali?

It depends on the model, season and rental length; small automatics are cheapest and monthly rentals lower the daily rate. Always confirm the final price before paying.

Do I have to leave my passport as a deposit?

Some rentals ask for it, but many accept a cash deposit or a copy instead. Avoid leaving your original passport where possible.

Are helmets required in Bali?

Yes, for both rider and passenger.

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