Getting an Indonesian Motorbike Licence (SIM C) in Bali as a Foreigner
On holiday, your home licence plus an International Driving Permit is all you need. But if you live in Bali — working, retired, married to an Indonesian, or on a long-stay permit — an Indonesian SIM C makes life a lot simpler. No more renewing IDPs, and every cop at every checkpoint recognises it instantly. Here’s how the process works. Rules and paperwork do change, so check with the Satpas (licensing office) at Polresta Denpasar or your local Polres before you go.
Can I apply?
Generally, only if you hold a KITAS (temporary stay permit) or KITAP (permanent stay permit). If you’re here on a tourist or visit visa, you’ll usually be pointed back to your home licence plus IDP — see getting an IDP for Bali. You apply in the area where your residence is registered.
What to bring
- Passport, original plus a photocopy.
- KITAS or KITAP, original plus a photocopy.
- Proof of your Bali address (a domicile letter or whatever the office asks for locally).
- A medical certificate and a psychological test result from an approved provider.
- Your home licence, if you have one, and a translation if requested.
How it goes on the day
- Medical and psych tests at an approved clinic, usually close to the licensing office.
- Registration and biometrics — photo, fingerprints, signature.
- Computer theory test on road signs and traffic rules.
- Riding test on a practice course: slalom, a figure-eight, a U-turn and a slow balance lane.
- Pay the official fee and collect your licence.
The riding test trips up more people than you’d think — it’s all slow-speed control, not speed. Spend a few mornings practising tight figure-eights and slow slaloms on an automatic in an empty car park.
What it costs
The official government fee (PNBP) for a new SIM C is IDR 100,000 under Government Regulation 76/2020, and IDR 75,000 to renew. The medical and psych tests are paid separately to the providers. Pay only at official counters, keep your receipts, and politely decline anyone offering to “speed things up” for a fee.
Which SIM C do I need?
| Class | Engine size | Typical bikes |
|---|---|---|
| SIM C | Up to 250cc | Scoopy, Vario, Fazzio, NMAX, PCX, XMAX 250, KLX 150 |
| SIM C I | 250–500cc | Mid-size sports and adventure bikes |
| SIM C II | Over 500cc | Big bikes |
Everything you’d normally rent in Bali is covered by a plain SIM C. It’s valid for five years and can be renewed before it expires.
Tips for a smooth run
- Go early on a weekday with all originals and photocopies.
- Wear long trousers and closed shoes — shorts and thongs (flip-flops) won’t cut it.
- If your Indonesian is limited, bring a friend or a reputable agent to help translate, but still pay at the official counter yourself.
- Until your SIM is issued, keep riding on your home licence plus IDP.
Once you’ve got it
A local licence makes a monthly scooter rental easier to arrange, and it’s worth telling your insurer about it. Long-stayers should also read our digital nomad scooter guide and the general Bali licence requirements.
Ready to ride? Compare daily, weekly & monthly rates on our Bali scooter rental page — delivered to your hotel or villa in 24 areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners get a motorbike licence in Bali?
Generally yes, if you hold a KITAS or KITAP and are registered as living in Bali. Tourists on a visit visa are usually told to use their home licence plus an IDP.
How much does an Indonesian SIM C cost?
The official fee is IDR 100,000 for a new SIM C and IDR 75,000 to renew, plus the medical and psychological tests paid to the providers.
What’s in the SIM C riding test?
Slow-speed control on a practice course: slalom, figure-eight, U-turn and a narrow balance lane, after a computer theory test.
How long is a SIM C valid?
Five years. You can renew it before it expires.