Can Tourists Rent Scooters in Bali 2026? Is It Legal?

Updated 2026-10-13

“Can tourists still rent scooters in Bali?” is one of the most common questions travellers ask before their trip, and for good reason. Since 2023 there have been headlines about a planned ban, police crackdowns and badly behaved foreigners on the roads. Much of what circulates on social media is incomplete or out of date.

This guide sets out what we understand about the rules for foreigners renting scooters in Bali in 2026: the status of the announced ban, the documents you need, the tourist levy, insurance, the behaviour the provincial government asks of visitors, and the alternatives if you do not qualify. We have written it as carefully as we can, but rules can change at short notice, so always check current official information before you travel.

Is there a scooter ban for tourists in Bali?

In March 2023, Bali’s then governor, Wayan Koster, announced plans to ban foreign tourists from renting and riding scooters, in response to a wave of traffic violations by visitors. The announcement made international news and many people assumed the ban took effect immediately.

However, as far as we are aware, no island-wide ban on tourists renting scooters is in force as of 2026. Rental shops continue to serve foreign customers, and the authorities have focused on enforcing existing rules: a valid licence, helmets and road behaviour. Restrictions could still be revived, and local rules in particular villages or zones may apply, so keep an eye on official announcements from the Bali provincial government and police before and during your trip.

Is it legal for tourists to ride a scooter in Bali?

Yes, provided you hold the right documents. Anyone riding a motorbike in Indonesia must have a valid licence for that vehicle class. For foreign visitors that means:

• A valid motorcycle licence from your home country. A car-only licence is not enough.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) that also covers motorcycles (usually category A). You must get it at home before you travel.
• Your passport (or a copy for day-to-day use, depending on the rental shop).
• The scooter’s registration (STNK), which the rental should hand over with the bike.

An IDP without the home licence, or a home licence without an IDP, may be treated as incomplete at a checkpoint. Long-stay residents with a permit such as a KITAS may be able to get an Indonesian licence; ask the local licensing office. Details are in our Bali scooter licence requirements guide.

Police checkpoints and fines

Bali police regularly run checkpoints on tourist routes in Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta and Uluwatu. The most common tourist offences are riding without a valid licence, riding without a helmet and carrying more than one passenger. Under Indonesia’s Road Traffic Law No. 22 of 2009, the maximum fines are Rp 1,000,000 for riding without a licence, Rp 250,000 for no helmet and Rp 500,000 for no registration papers. Settle any ticket through the official process and ask for proof. See Bali police checkpoints and fines.

The Rp 150,000 tourist levy

Since 14 February 2024, every foreign visitor entering Bali pays a tourist levy of Rp 150,000 per person per visit. Pay online through the official Love Bali website or app, ideally before you fly or on arrival. Domestic tourists are exempt. It is separate from your visa and unrelated to scooter rental, but keep the receipt on your phone in case you are asked.

Insurance: read the small print

Many travel insurance policies exclude motorbike accidents if you are not properly licensed to ride a motorcycle at your destination, were not wearing a helmet or had been drinking, and some cap engine size. Without the right licence and IDP, hospital bills after a crash could be entirely yours, and private hospital care in Bali can be very expensive.

Rental scooters in Bali also generally come without damage cover for the renter. If the bike is scratched, damaged or stolen, you will usually be asked to pay. Read the agreement, photograph and video the bike before you ride, and understand the deposit rules. Our accident and damage guide covers the worst case.

Etiquette: the governor’s 2023 dos and don’ts

In 2023 the Bali provincial government issued a circular listing dos and don’ts for foreign tourists. Among other things, it asks visitors to:

• Respect the sanctity of temples, religious symbols and ceremonies.
• Dress modestly and appropriately, especially at temples and in public places.
• Follow traffic rules, including holding a valid licence and wearing a helmet.
• Use licensed tourism businesses, including transport and vehicle rentals.
• Avoid indecent behaviour, abusive language and causing disturbances.
• Not enter the main areas of temples except to pray in traditional dress.

For riders that means: no riding shirtless or in swimwear, always wear a helmet, no three-up riding, no racing, and give way to ceremonial processions. If a ceremony closes the road, wait patiently or detour.

Practical tips for foreign riders

1. Get your IDP before you leave home and check that motorcycles are covered.
2. Choose a reputable rental that gives you the STNK, two decent helmets and a simple written agreement.
3. Avoid leaving your original passport as security where possible; offer a cash deposit with a receipt.
4. Start small with a Scoopy or Vario if you are new to Asian traffic.
5. Avoid riding at night on unfamiliar roads and never after drinking. Read our safety tips.

The full process from booking to return is in how to rent a scooter in Bali.

Alternatives if you are not licensed

If you do not hold a valid motorcycle licence and IDP, or simply do not feel confident, do not take the risk. Good alternatives include:

• A car with driver, the most popular choice for families and groups; see our car with driver guide and car rental options.
• Grab and Gojek for short trips, bearing in mind that some areas restrict app pick-ups.
• Official taxis and local transport cooperatives.
• Day tours that include transport.

Summary

In 2026, tourists can in practice still rent scooters in Bali, but existing rules are enforced and policy may change. Bring a home motorcycle licence plus IDP, pay the Rp 150,000 levy via Love Bali, understand your insurance, wear a helmet, dress respectfully and respect local culture. If you do not meet the requirements, a car with driver is a safe, comfortable alternative.

Ready to rent a scooter or a car with driver? Fill in the WhatsApp form on this page with the vehicle, area and dates. Our partner rentals in Bali will send price quotes straight to your WhatsApp. Free, no booking fee.

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