'Do as the locals do' doesn't fully apply to motorcycle riding in Bali. They commonly overtake or zigzag through dense traffic without using turn signal lights, blast through red lights, and 'giving way' seems non-existent. For your own safety's sake, follow the signs and be a sensible rider at all times.
How safe is it to drive a scooter in Bali?
Riding a scooter in Bali is as dangerous as anywhere else in the world, so even if the laws are not very strict, always wear a helmet. My second and probably most important advice is buying travel insurance for Bali and taking your phone with you at all times because accidents happen.
Can tourists rent motorbikes in Bali?
The Indonesian island of Bali is banning tourists from renting motorbikes. The new rules – part of a crackdown on antisocial behaviour – come after a series of traffic offences by foreigners. Visitors will be encouraged to rent cars instead. " As tourists, [you should] act as tourists,” Governor I Wayan Koster said.
Are there many scooter accidents in Bali?
There's more than 1,300 road accidents per year in Bali (one third of them are fatal). Statistically 80% of them involving motorcycles, and scooters are the most popular type of motorcycles in Bali, at about ~75%. So my rough calculation is about 780, or about 2 each day.
Can Americans drive in Bali?
The short answer is YES. According to Indonesian law, foreign visitors are required to have an international driver's license to drive a car or ride a motorbike in Bali. At the same time, category A is required for driving a motorbike, and category B is required for driving a car.
Is scooter theft common in Bali?
And even if you're going solo, you should be aware that chancers often steal from scooters at traffic lights in Bali. If you can't fully secure your luggage on your scooter, don't even try to take it with you. In reality, you can probably wear a small backpack and stow your helmet under your seat, that's it.
Are motorbikes safe in Bali?
Can foreigners ride motorcycle in Bali?
Foreign tourists won't be allowed to use motorcycles to get around the island after a string of accidents led to injuries and even deaths.
Can foreigners ride scooter in Bali?
However, it is legal under certain specific circumstances for foreigners to rent scooters in Bali. You don't need a local driving license, but you will need a valid international driver's license and a few other things if you want the rental process to go smoothly.
How common are scooter accidents in Bali?
There's more than 1,300 road accidents per year in Bali (one third of them are fatal). Statistically 80% of them involving motorcycles, and scooters are the most popular type of motorcycles in Bali, at about ~75%. So my rough calculation is about 780, or about 2 each day.
Is mugging common in Bali?
Violent crime is not as common in Bali, and there are rare incidents of muggings and kidnapping, but it's best to steer clear of certain areas at night.
Do I need a motorcycle license in Bali?
Can I drive in Bali with my Driver's Licence? For anyone wanting to drive in Bali (by car, motorbike, or scooter), you are going to need an International Driving Permit (IDP) this is sometimes know as an International Drivers Licence (IDL).
Do I need a license to rent a motorbike in Bali?
You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license to rent a motorbike or scooter in Bali. Don't have one? Get an international driver's permit today. Depending on the rental company, you may also need to present a passport or other form of identification.