Bali Scooter Rules for Australians: Licence, IDP & Insurance
Australians are Bali’s biggest group of visitors, and lots of them ride scooters. Every year, some come home with injuries and an insurance claim that was refused because of a licence technicality. Here’s how to get it right before you fly.
The licence: you need a motorcycle licence
To ride legally in Bali you need a licence that covers motorcycles — in Australia, a full or provisional motorcycle (R-class) licence, depending on your state — plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) showing the motorcycle category. A car-only licence doesn’t cover a scooter, even a small one. See Bali licence requirements.
Getting an IDP in Australia
IDPs are issued through the state motoring clubs (such as the NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC and RACT). You can usually apply online or in person with your licence and a passport photo. Make sure the motorcycle category is included. Step-by-step: how to get an IDP for Bali.
Travel insurance: read the motorbike section
This is where most Australians get caught out. Many policies only cover riding if:
- you hold a valid motorcycle licence at home and are licensed in Indonesia (IDP);
- you wear a helmet;
- you weren’t affected by alcohol;
- the bike is within the engine-size limit (some cap at 125cc or 150cc);
- you’ve added motorcycle cover where it’s an optional extra.
Read the PDS, not just the summary. Details in does travel insurance cover scooter accidents in Bali? The Australian Government’s Smartraveller site also has advice on riding in Bali — worth a read before you go.
The good news: you already drive on the left
Indonesia drives on the left, like Australia, so roundabouts and turns feel natural. The differences are the density of scooters, the horn culture and road surfaces. See Bali traffic etiquette.
Police checks and fines
Checkpoints in tourist areas look for licences, helmets and the bike’s STNK. Riding without a licence can mean a fine of up to IDR 1 million under Indonesian traffic law. See police checkpoints and fines and the latest on tourist scooter rules.
Common Aussie mistakes
- Assuming a car licence covers a 110cc scooter.
- Forgetting the IDP — or getting one without the motorcycle category.
- Riding in boardies and thongs. See what to wear.
- Riding home after a few Bintangs.
No motorcycle licence?
Use Grab, Gojek or a car with driver, or self-drive a car with your licence and an IDP (car category). See self-drive car rental.
Book a bike
Licensed and insured? The SiapPergi scooter catalogue delivers to your villa with two helmets and a raincoat — pay after checking the bike.
Ready to ride? Compare daily, weekly & monthly rates on our Bali scooter rental page — delivered to your hotel or villa in 34 areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can Australians ride scooters in Bali with a car licence?
No. You need a licence that covers motorcycles plus an International Driving Permit with the motorcycle category.
Where do Australians get an International Driving Permit?
From the state motoring clubs, such as the NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC and RACT. Make sure the motorcycle category is included.
Will my Australian travel insurance cover a scooter accident in Bali?
Only if you meet the policy’s conditions — typically a valid motorcycle licence plus IDP, a helmet, no alcohol, and within the engine-size limit. Read the PDS.
Does Bali drive on the same side as Australia?
Yes. Indonesia drives on the left, like Australia.