Quick answers
- If you've never ridden a scooter, don't learn in Bali traffic. The Bali police have asked unskilled foreigners not to ride.
- Indonesia drives on the left. Wear an SNI helmet, and make sure your passenger does too.
- The rainy season runs roughly November to March. Pull over during heavy downpours; roads get slippery and low areas flood.
- In an emergency call 112. Police: 110. Ambulance: 118 or 119.
How risky is riding in Bali?
In 2024 the Bali police recorded 8,256 traffic accidents on the island, and motorbikes were the vehicles most involved. 142 of those accidents involved foreigners, a 35% rise on 2023, and 21 foreigners died. In November 2025 the police said the number involving foreigners had dropped, and urged foreigners who can't ride well not to ride at all.
Much of the risk is in your hands: how well you already ride, your speed, a fastened helmet, and riding sober.
Before your first ride
- Ride only if you already ride a scooter or motorbike at home. Bali traffic isn't a place to learn.
- Carry your home licence with the motorcycle category, and an International Driving Permit if you have one (strongly recommended).
- Check the brakes, lights and tyres, and that both helmets fit. Our rental checklist covers the rest.
- Choose a bike you can handle. A heavier scooter is harder at walking pace; see the scooter comparison.
How Bali traffic works
- Indonesia drives on the left. Take extra care at junctions and when turning right across traffic.
- Scooters filter between cars and pass on both sides. Check your mirrors and expect bikes on your left and right.
- A short horn tap means "I'm here", not anger. Use it before blind bends and when passing.
- Traffic entering from side roads often doesn't stop. Slow down at every junction.
- Watch for sand and gravel near beaches, potholes after rain, dogs, and ceremonies that close roads.
- Don't ride after drinking, and don't ride with a passenger who has been drinking and might unbalance the bike.
Helmets
Rider and passenger must both wear an SNI-certified helmet; riding without one can be fined up to Rp250.000 (Law 22/2009, article 291). Fasten the strap every time. We include two SNI helmets with every rental.
Riding in the rainy season
Bali's rainy season runs roughly from November to March, with January and February the wettest months. Rain usually comes as heavy afternoon downpours rather than all-day drizzle. During a downpour, pull over and wait it out: roads turn slippery, visibility drops, and low streets in Kuta and Seminyak can flood. Carry a raincoat; we rent them for Rp15.000 for the whole rental.
Police checks
Police run roadside checks in tourist areas and can ask for your licence, IDP and the bike's registration paper (STNK). Stay calm, show your documents, and if you're fined, pay through the official ticket process.
If you crash
- Move to safety and check for injuries. Call 112 for an emergency, or 118 / 119 for an ambulance.
- Photograph the scene and any damage before anything is moved.
- Message your rental straight away.
- Keep all clinic and hospital receipts for your travel insurer.
For what happens with the bike afterwards, see what happens if your rental scooter breaks down or gets damaged.
Emergency numbers in Bali
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Emergency (all services) | 112 |
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance | 118 or 119 |
| Fire | 113 |
| Search and rescue (Basarnas) | 115 |
FAQ
Is it safe to ride a scooter in Bali?
For experienced riders who wear a helmet, ride sober and hold the right licence, it's how most people get around. For first-timers, it isn't the place to learn.
Which side of the road does Bali drive on?
The left.
What is the emergency number in Bali?
112. Police is 110, and an ambulance is 118 or 119.
Can I ride a scooter in Bali in the rainy season?
Yes, but pull over during heavy downpours, carry a raincoat, and avoid flooded streets.
About the author
Lutfi Khamami owns motoranbali and has rented scooters to visitors and long-stay guests in Bali since 2022. More about us
