The Rumor vs. The Reality
In early 2025, headlines suggested that Bali’s government might ban tourists from riding scooters altogether. The idea was floated by Bali Governor I Wayan Koster, who cited safety and order concerns. However, as of now there is no formal island-wide ban.
Instead, what visitors experience is much stricter enforcement: more police roadblocks, fines for missing helmets, and checks for licenses and registration.
What’s Actually Happening in 2025
- New tourist rules: In spring 2025, Bali updated its “do’s and don’ts” for foreigners, including a reminder that tourists must obey traffic laws and carry the correct licenses.
- Police crackdowns: Targeted operations focus on hotspots like Canggu and Denpasar. Officers are checking for helmets, proper registration (STNK), and noise violations.
- Insurance risks: Many travel insurers won’t pay out if you ride illegally (without the right license/IDP). That means a crash could become very expensive.
- Rental scrutiny: Scooter rental shops are under pressure to verify that riders are legally licensed, though in practice checks can be inconsistent.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
Yes. To legally ride a scooter in Bali, tourists must have:
- Motorcycle license from home country (not just a car license).
- International Driving Permit (IDP) covering motorcycles.
- Helmet and registration papers for the scooter.
Without these, you risk fines, confiscation, or worse—denied insurance in case of an accident.
How Likely Is a Total Ban?
A total ban on tourists riding scooters is unlikely in 2025, mainly because:
- Scooters are central to Bali’s tourism economy.
- Many local businesses (rental shops, cafés, small tour operators) rely on scooter mobility.
- Previous ban proposals (in 2023 and 2024) grabbed headlines but never became law.
What is very likely:
- Continued tightening of rules,
- More checkpoints and fines,
- Stricter rental rules to prevent unlicensed tourists from getting scooters.
Practical Advice for Tourists
- ✅ Bring your license + IDP before renting.
- ✅ Wear a helmet—always.
- ✅ Check the scooter’s papers (STNK).
- ✅ Drive cautiously; police target reckless riding.
- ❌ Don’t drink and drive.
- ❌ Don’t assume you can get away with it—enforcement in 2025 is much stricter than before.
FAQ
Can I rent a scooter in Bali in 2025?
Yes, but only legally if you hold a valid motorcycle license and an IDP.
Is there a total ban?
No, not at this time. There are proposals and crackdowns, but no island-wide law forbidding tourists to ride.
What happens if I ride without the right license?
Expect fines, potential confiscation of the bike, and no insurance coverage if you crash.
Conclusion
Bali is not banning scooters for tourists in 2025—but the rules are getting tougher. For many, it will feel like a crackdown. If you have the right documents, ride carefully, and follow the rules, you can still enjoy the freedom of scootering around the island. If not, consider booking a driver or using ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek.
