🇮🇩 Do you need an IDP to drive in Indonesia?

IDP required· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 1 May 2026

Short answer

Driving in Indonesia: the rule explained

Indonesia (including Bali) requires an IDP for tourists driving cars or scooters. Police checkpoints in Bali routinely check for it, and insurance claims are denied without proper licensing.

Renting a car in Indonesia

Scooter rentals rarely ask — but riding without an IDP plus motorcycle category risks fines and voided insurance.

Motorcycles & scooters: A motorcycle endorsement on your home license is required for scooters; a car license alone is not sufficient.

What to carry when driving in Indonesia

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
IDP with motorcycle category if riding a scooter

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Indonesia: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Indonesia?

Yes — to drive in Indonesia you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself. Indonesia (including Bali) requires an IDP for tourists driving cars or scooters. Police checkpoints in Bali routinely check for it, and insurance claims are denied without proper licensing.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Indonesia?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Indonesia read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Indonesia?

Scooter rentals rarely ask — but riding without an IDP plus motorcycle category risks fines and voided insurance.

Which IDP convention does Indonesia use?

Indonesia recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Indonesian National Police Korlantas — International driving permit

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.