A scooter is the most popular way to get around Bali, but renting comes with rules that have been enforced more strictly since 2026. In short: you need an inte ational licence endorsed for motorcycles, a helmet is mandatory, and you'll want care in the chaotic, left-hand traffic.
What licence you need
To rent and ride legally you need an Inte ational Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed for motorcycles (category A), carried with your home-country licence, passport and a copy of your visa. A car-only licence is not accepted for a scooter — riding on one is technically illegal, and most insurers won't pay out for a motorbike accident without the correct licence.
How to rent
- Rent from a reputable shop with reviews.
- Before you ride, inspect the bike and photograph and film every scratch and dent — otherwise they may be charged to you on retu .
- Check the brakes, lights, ho and tyres, and ask for a sound helmet (ideally two).
- Don't hand over your passport as a deposit — leave a copy or a cash deposit instead.
Police and fines
Traffic police run regular document checks on tourists (especially around Canggu, Seminyak and Sunset Road) and have taken a zero-tolerance line since 2026. Riding without a licence or helmet is fined: on the spot from IDR 250,000, and up to IDR 1,000,000 by formal ticket. If you did break a rule, ask for the official blue ticket (Surat Tilang) and pay it at a BRI bank within 14 days — this protects you from inflated cash 'fines'.
Safety
Traffic in Bali is busy and left-hand, and roads can be slippery. Always wear a helmet, don't speed, and take care on mountain bends and in the rain. Make sure your insurance covers motorbike accidents — many policies exclude them.
The alte
ative — a car with a driver
If you'd rather not ride, a car with a driver is easier and less stressful: they know the roads, handle parking and navigate the traffic. It's a popular choice for full-day sightseeing.
We arrange transfers and trips around the island with an English- or Russian-speaking driver — just send your route.