Essential Documents to Carry When Riding in Bali

Imagine the feeling: the sun on your skin, the smell of incense and tropical air, and the freedom of exploring Bali's stunning landscapes on your own scooter.

It’s an unforgettable experience. However, before you twist that throttle, one thing is absolutely non-negotiable for a hassle-free holiday: having the essential documents to carry when riding in Bali.

Riding legally and safely isn't just about avoiding a run-in with the local police—it’s about ensuring you are covered in case of an accident and showing respect for Indonesian law.

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If you’re renting a bike from a trusted provider like Cinchy, you're already one step ahead. We make the rental process incredibly quick and easy. But what about the documents you need to keep on you while on the road?

Here is your comprehensive checklist, designed to give you peace of mind from Canggu to Ubud.

Licensing and Registration

These three documents are the foundation of legal riding in Bali. 

Failing to present them during a routine police check can result in significant fines (often starting from IDR 300,000 to IDR 500,000 per missing document) and, more importantly, can completely void your travel insurance coverage in case of an incident.

1. International Driving Permit (IDP)

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is arguably the single most important document you must possess as a foreign rider. It’s not a standalone license; rather, it’s an official, UN-sanctioned translation of your valid national driver's license.

• Status: MANDATORY for all foreign tourists.

Your IDP must have the motorcycle endorsement (Category A) to legally ride a scooter or motorbike in Indonesia. A simple car license IDP won't cover you for a bike.

Get your IDP from your local automobile association before you travel. While some places offer online applications, having a physical copy ready is always best. This is one of the key essential documents to carry when riding in Bali.

2. Valid Home Country Driver’s License

Many tourists make the mistake of thinking the IDP is enough. It is not. The IDP is only a translation, and it is invalid without your original, valid driver’s license from your home country.

• Status: MANDATORY.

If you are an Indonesian citizen or a long-term resident with a local license, you must carry your valid SIM C (Surat Izin Mengemudi C—the official Indonesian motorcycle license).

For foreign tourists, keep both your original license and your IDP together at all times.

3. Vehicle Registration Document (STNK)

When you rent a scooter, the bike itself must be legally registered. 

This is proven by its STNK (Surat Tanda Nomor Kendaraan), which is the vehicle registration certificate.

It proves the bike is legally owned, registered with the Indonesian authorities, and roadworthy.

• Status: MANDATORY. The original document (or a certified copy) must be carried on the bike.

When you rent from a reputable company like Cinchy, we provide you with the necessary paperwork. We recommend you check the scooter storage box during delivery to ensure the documents are inside. 

Never accept a rental where the company only provides a photocopy of the STNK or tells you it’s 'not necessary'.

Identity and Travel Documents

While the police primarily focus on licensing, having your personal travel documents accessible is vital for ID checks, emergencies, and meeting rental requirements.

4. Passport or Passport Copy

Carrying your original passport on your person while riding through dense traffic is generally discouraged, as loss or theft would be disastrous for your holiday. However, you need valid ID.

• Status: Highly Recommended to carry a copy.

Carry a clear, legible photocopy of your passport's main page and your Indonesia Visa page. Keep the original in a safe place at your accommodation.

Reputable rental companies like Cinchy will ask to see your original passport/ID for verification, but we only require a copy (and a copy of your flight and hotel bookings) to finalize the reservation. 

Never leave your original passport as collateral with any rental company.

5. Round-Trip Flight Tickets

Many legitimate rental agencies, including Cinchy, require confirmation of your travel plans to verify that you are a genuine tourist and to confirm the duration of your stay.

• Status: May be Required by the Rental Agency.

We require a copy of your Round Trip Flight Tickets to ensure a seamless and safe rental agreement that matches your travel dates.

6. Proof of Accommodation Reservation

Similarly, providing proof of your stay is a common requirement to confirm your local contact details and where the bike will be kept.

• Status: May be Required by the Rental Agency.

A copy of your Hotel Booking for the trip duration is required as part of Cinchy’s easy and simple documentation process.

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Cinchy’s FAQ - About Bali Scooter Rental

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At Cinchy, we pride ourselves on making the rental process completely stress-free, so you can focus on the ride. 

Our requirements—Valid ID, Valid Driving License, Round-Trip Flight Tickets, and Hotel Bookings—are in place not to make things complicated, but to ensure that you are legally covered and safe on the road. 

This comprehensive approach to gathering the essential documents to carry when riding in Bali ensures a transparent and compliant experience.

Cinchy’s advantage:

Riding a scooter in Bali is the best way to see the island's magic, but it comes with responsibility. Before you start your engine, take a moment to confirm you have all the essential documents to carry when riding in Bali:

1. International Driving Permit (IDP) (with Category A)

2. Original Home Country Driver’s License (or SIM C)

3. STNK (Vehicle Registration) from Cinchy (check under the seat!)

4. Photocopy of Passport/ID

5. Cinchy Rental Agreement (Proof of rental)

By having these documents ready, you’re not only prepared for police stops but you've also laid the groundwork for a safe, legal, and unforgettable adventure. 

Now, book your scooter to explore Bali easily with Cinchy!