What You Need to Know About Driving in Bali as a Visitor
A quick note on driving in Bali. This was a few years back — we now have local licences. Visitors can drive if they hold an IDP and proper insurance, but it’s not for everyone. For us, it was one of the best ways to really see the island.
Planning a family trip to Bali and considering driving yourself around the island? It can be a fantastic way to explore Bali’s hidden gems—if you’re prepared.
Firstly, before slipping behind the wheel, make sure you have the essentials: a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home country’s license, and comprehensive travel insurance that covers vehicle use. These are mandatory and will help you avoid fines, not to mention headaches if anything goes awry.
Driving in Bali isn’t like cruising on highways back home. The roads can be narrow, scooters zoom by in all directions, and traffic rules often feel more like suggestions. While it may seem chaotic at first, locals have a rhythm to the road, so with a little patience and alertness, you’ll quickly adapt. However, if your family isn't used to unpredictable road conditions, hiring a local driver could be the less stressful option.
That said, for us, driving in Bali became one of the most memorable parts of our adventure. It gave us the freedom to venture beyond the usual tourist trails—winding through rice terraces in Ubud, catching early surf swells in Canggu, and chasing sunsets in Uluwatu, all on our own time.
A quick note: years back, we navigated all this as visitors. These days, we hold local licenses, but the experience taught us that driving isn’t for every traveler. Take into account your family’s comfort level with unpredictable traffic and left-hand driving before deciding.
In the end, driving in Bali can offer a deep, immersive way to see the island—but only if done safely and legally. So if freedom and adventure are calling, gear up properly and hit the road—carefully!
