Short answer: riding in Bali is risky. UK government advice calls traffic discipline "very poor" and reports "a large increase in moped and motorbike accidents – some fatal – in Bali".[1] Wear an SNI-standard helmet,[3] carry a licence that covers motorbikes, ride well within your ability, and if you're not an experienced rider, consider hiring a driver instead.
Scooter accidents in Bali: how risky is riding?
The UK Foreign Office warns that "traffic discipline is very poor and there has been a large increase in moped and motorbike accidents – some fatal – in Bali", and suggests considering "employing a private driver or hiring a car with a driver".[1]
Indonesian police figures point the same way: the national police portal reported 142 traffic accidents involving foreigners in Bali in 2024, up 35% on 2023, with 21 deaths. In November 2025 Bali's traffic directorate advised foreign riders who are not skilled not to ride motorcycles on their own.[2]
Helmets
Indonesian law requires motorbike riders to wear a helmet meeting the national SNI standard. Press summaries of Article 291 of Law 22/2009 put the penalty at up to one month's detention or a fine of up to IDR 250,000, and the rider can also be penalised if a passenger has no helmet.[3][4] The UK government's advice is simply to "wear a helmet in good condition".[1]
Our practical advice: ask the shop for a helmet that fits snugly with the chin strap done up, not a loose one. A passenger needs their own. If you're staying long, a helmet of your own is worth buying.
Police checks
Bali police run regular traffic operations. In one in May 2025 across Badung (including Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu), police reported 81 violations, 30 by foreigners, seized 56 motorcycles, and recorded 70 riders without helmets.[5] Riding without a valid licence can carry up to four months' detention or a fine of up to IDR 1,000,000, according to press summaries of the law.[4]
Carry your licence (or IDP plus home licence) and the bike's registration papers (STNK) every time you ride. If you're stopped, stay calm and cooperative. The UK government notes that foreign nationals involved in even minor traffic violations or accidents "may be vulnerable to extortion".[1]
If you have an accident
The UK Foreign Office advises:[1]
- wait for the police at the scene;
- if you have concerns for your safety, move to another location;
- make sure someone stays to watch your vehicle if it will not drive;
- report the accident at a police station and show full cooperation.
Then contact your rental shop and your travel insurer as soon as you can, and take photos of the scene and the bike.
Practical riding tips
These are our general tips, not rules:
- Start slow. Take your first rides on quiet roads at quiet times before tackling busy towns or hills.
- Ride on the left and expect scooters to pass on both sides, pull out without looking and ride against the traffic.
- Watch the surface: sand, gravel, potholes and wet roads after rain cause many falls. Brake gently and early.
- Avoid riding at night on unfamiliar roads, and never after drinking.
- Don't overload the bike. Two adults on a small scooter on steep hills is hard work; a bigger maxi-scooter is easier.
- Check the bike before you ride: brakes, tyres, lights and horn.
- Cover up with long sleeves, closed shoes and sunglasses or a visor, against sun, rain and road rash.
Insurance
The UK government advises visitors to "check you are covered with your travel insurance company".[1] Bali media report that cover can be voided if local rules are broken, such as riding without a valid licence or helmet.[5] Read the motorbike clause in your policy before you ride.
Licence
Indonesian law requires a valid licence to ride. For most visitors that means an International Driving Permit (IDP) that covers motorcycles, carried with your home licence; residents can hold an Indonesian motorcycle licence (SIM C, with higher classes for bikes above 250cc). Police run traffic checks in tourist areas, and travel insurance may not cover an unlicensed rider. Rules can change, so check current requirements before you ride (our licence guide lists the sources). Our licence and IDP guide covers the details and sources.
Ready to rent? Compare shops across Bali, or read which bike suits you.