How Does Driving Rules Work in Indonesia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Indonesians drive on the left; scooter and motorbike rental is common in Bali but the tourist accident rate is very high; an international driving licence is required; avoid driving at night.
2What You Need to Know
Indonesia drives on the left side of the road, following the British/Australian convention. Scooter rental is extremely popular with tourists in Bali and is often the most practical way to get around, but motorbike accidents are the single leading cause of tourist injuries and deaths in Indonesia. Indonesian traffic is chaotic, roads can be poorly maintained, and driving at night dramatically increases risk due to poor lighting and unmarked hazards. An international driving licence (IDP) is legally required to drive in Indonesia. Police checkpoints target tourists on motorbikes and fines for not having a licence can be issued, though informal payments are common.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1If you are not an experienced motorbike rider at home, do not rent a scooter in Bali — the traffic, road conditions, and other riders are genuinely dangerous for beginners
- 2Wear a helmet at all times — this is both the law and basic survival sense; rental shops provide them but bring your own liner for hygiene
- 3Drive slowly, avoid night riding, and never ride after drinking — the combination of unfamiliar roads, traffic, and alcohol causes the majority of tourist fatalities
Important Warning
Motorbike accidents are the leading cause of tourist deaths and serious injuries in Bali. Many travel insurance policies exclude motorbike accidents if you did not hold a valid motorcycle licence at home — check your policy before renting.
How does this compare?
Driving Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Drive on the left. An International Driving Permit (IDP) plus your original license is required. Traffic laws are strictly enforced.
Thailand drives on the left; an international driving licence is required, but scooter rental is common and accident rates among tourists are very high — always wear a helmet.
Singapore drives on the left, has strict speed enforcement and ERP toll charges for the CBD, but most visitors are better served by MRT and Grab than by renting a car.
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