A Comprehensive Guide About Traffic Fines in Bali

Renting a scooter is one of the best ways to explore Bali—from the temples of Ubud to the beaches of Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and the airport road near Denpasar. 

But traffic fines in Bali are real, and can turn a dream holiday into a legal headache. 

Here’s your complete guide on how much is a traffic fine in Bali, what happens if you get a traffic ticket in Bali, and how to stay safe and legal on the road.

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Major Traffic Fines in Bali

Based on Law No. 22/2009 on Road Traffic and Transport, here are some of the most common violations and penalties you may encounter:

• Driving without a valid license / driving without international license in Bali: up to IDR 1,000,000 (~$60) and/or up to 4 months imprisonment (Pasal 281).

• Driving with a license but failing to show it (roadside stops or checkpoints): IDR 250,000; 1 month prison (Pasal 288(2)).

• Driving without STNK or expired vehicle registration: IDR 500,000; 2 months prison (Pasal 280).

• No helmet (on motorbike/scooter): IDR 250,000; 1 month (Pasal 291).

• No seat‑belt (when riding in a car): IDR 250,000; 1 month (Pasal 289).

• Using a mobile phone while driving: IDR 750,000; up to 3 months (Pasal 283).

• Running a red light or violating road markings: IDR 500,000; up to 2 months (Pasal 287).

• Speeding: fined under same article for road marking violations (IDR 500k).

• Drunk driving: up to IDR 3,000,000; 12 months prison (Pasal 311).

• Overloading – more than 3 people on a scooter: IDR 250,000; 1 month prison (Pasal 292).

• Vehicle not roadworthy (faulty lights, illegal exhaust): IDR 250–500,000; up to 1 month (Pasal 285).

• Fake or missing license plates: IDR 500,000; 2 months prison (Pasal 280).

If you’re wondering what happens if you get a traffic ticket in Bali, these are real fines—no joke—and the police, authorities, or ETLE cameras can issue them. 

Even expatriates and tourists must follow these traffic laws for tourists in Bali.

Legal Procedures for Fines

Bali now uses a mix of Ticket System, Electronic Enforcement (ETLE), and Demerit Point System to handle violations.

1. Ticket System

When stopped by police for a violation, you'll typically be issued one of two types of tickets:

• Blue Ticket (Surat Tilang Biru): This indicates that you admit guilt. To resolve this, you must pay the specified fine amount at a BRI Bank within 14 days. Once paid, present the official receipt to the police to retrieve any confiscated documents (such as your international driving permit or vehicle registration).

• Red Ticket (Surat Tilang Merah): If you believe you are not guilty or wish to contest the fine, you will receive a Red Ticket. This means you must attend court within 14 days of the summons. While contesting, be aware that fines are often reduced if you are ultimately found guilty.

2. Electronic Enforcement (ETLE)

The advent of Electronic Traffic Enforcement (ETLE) cameras has significantly modernized traffic law enforcement in Bali. 

These fixed or mobile cameras detect various violations, including speeding, using mobile phones while driving, not wearing a helmet, running a red light, not wearing a seatbelt, and issues with license plates or road markings.

A violation is detected by the camera, leading to a notification letter being sent to the vehicle owner. You then confirm guilt via a police station or the official website. 

Payment must be made via BRI Bank (BRIVA) within 15 days. 

Crucially, non-payment of ETLE fines will result in a block on your vehicle registration (STNK) renewal, which can cause significant issues, especially for rental vehicles.

3. Demerit Point System

Indonesia also operates a demerit point system for driving offenses, accumulating up to 12 points per year. Points are deducted based on the severity of the violation:

• Minor violations: 1 point

• Moderate violations: 3 points

• Major violations: 5 points

Repeated or severe violations can lead to license revocation. 

Causing fatalities (-12 points) or being involved in a hit-and-run (permanent revocation) will result in immediate license revocation. 

These points also appear in your personal criminal records (SKCK), which can affect future employment or visa applications.

Special Implications for Tourists

While the legality and regulations apply to everyone, tourists face particular considerations regarding traffic fines in Bali.

1. Deportation Risk

A significant concern for tourists is the potential for deportation. 

Traffic violations, especially serious ones or repeated offenses, can be interpreted as a breach of your visa conditions. 

Immigration authorities in Bali have deported foreign nationals for various reasons, and serious traffic infractions could put you at risk. 

2. Tourist Levy

It's also important to remember the mandatory IDR 150,000 Tourist Levy, collected via the Love Bali program. 

While not directly a traffic fine, it's a financial obligation for tourists entering Bali, contributing to cultural preservation and environmental protection.

How to Settle Your Traffic Fine

Once you receive a summons or an ETLE notification for traffic fines in Bali, understanding the payment process is key to avoiding further penalties.

1. Bank Transfer (BRIVA)

The primary method for paying traffic fines in Bali is via bank transfer, specifically through BRI Bank's BRIVA system. 

You will receive a 15-digit code on your ticket or notification. This code is essential for making the payment.

2. ATM/Online Payment

You can settle your fine using an ATM or through online banking. 

Look for the "BRIVA Payment" option, then enter the 15-digit fine code and the exact fine amount. Ensure the amount matches precisely to avoid issues.

3. Proof of Payment

Always, always retain your payment receipts for at least 6 months. 

This serves as crucial proof that you have fulfilled your obligation, especially if any discrepancies arise later.

Electronic Traffic Enforcement (ETLE) Camera Points in Bali

To help you be more aware, here are some of the known fixed ETLE camera locations across Bali, particularly in busy areas like Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and roads leading to the airport road and other main roads:

• Simpang Teuku Umar – Imam Bonjol (Simpang Buagan), Denpasar.

• Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai – Pulau Serangan, Sanur (in front of SPBU Serangan).

• Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai – before Krisna souvenir shop, Kuta.

• Airport Ngurah Rai, Tuban – in front of Base Ops area.

• Kawasan Airport Ngurah Rai – Jalan Raya Tuban, Kuta (Tuban traffic light/simpang Tuban).

• Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai – Jalan Kampus Unud (towards Udayana University campus entrance).

• Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Benoa, South Kuta – west of Pertamina SPBU 54.803.27.

• Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Benoa, South Kuta – east of the same SPBU.

• Jalan Denpasar–Gilimanuk, Desa Dangin Tukadaya, Jembrana – one camera added, bringing Jembrana total to three ETLE units.

How to Avoid Fines & Penalties

Knowing how to avoid traffic fines in Bali is paramount for a stress-free holiday. Here are some invaluable tips:

1. Always Carry Your Documents: This includes your valid international driving permit (ensure it's endorsed for motorcycles if you're riding a scooter), your passport, a copy of your vehicle registration (STNK), and proof of insurance if applicable. Keep these documents readily accessible, but in a secure place.

2. Wear a Helmet: This is non-negotiable for safety and legal compliance. Always wear a helmet, and ensure your passenger does too.

3. Adhere to Traffic Laws: Obey speed limits, traffic signs, and road markings. Do not run red lights.

4. No Mobile Phone Usage: Keep your phone stowed away while riding. If you need to use GPS, consider a phone holder that allows for hands-free navigation.

5. Do Not Drink and Drive: This is a universal rule for road safety. The penalties for drunk driving in Bali are severe.

6. Be Aware at Checkpoints: Police often conduct checkpoints or roadside stops, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud. Remain calm, be polite, and present your documents promptly.

7. Understand the Fine Process: If stopped, ask for an official ticket (Surat Tilang). Be wary of requests for on-the-spot payments without a proper ticket; this can indicate corruption or an unfair fine. Insist on an official receipt if you must pay. While negotiation might seem tempting in some situations, it's best to stick to official procedures to avoid misunderstandings or further complications.

8. Stay Informed: Laws can change. Keep an eye on local news or official government advisories for any updates to traffic laws for tourists in Bali.

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