Driving in Bali: What to Know Before You Rent a Car
Bali drives on the left, traffic is busier and slower than most visitors expect, and scooters fill every gap. If you are comfortable with that, a self-drive car lets you explore at your own pace. Check which licence you need before you travel, and if you would rather not drive, book a car that comes with a driver.
Which side of the road does Bali drive on?
The left, and most cars here have the steering wheel on the right. If you usually drive on the right, take the first hour slowly on quieter roads. Be most careful at junctions and roundabouts, where habit pulls you towards the wrong side, and when you pull out after a stop.
What is the traffic like?
In the south, around the airport, Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu, and around Ubud, traffic is heavy at busy times and a short distance can take a long while. Village roads and lanes through the rice fields are often narrow, with little room to pass an oncoming car. Allow extra time for anything with a fixed start, such as a flight, a dinner booking or a wedding.
How do I drive safely around scooters?
Scooters pass on both sides and pull out with little warning, often carrying a passenger or a load. Check your mirrors often, signal early, leave space, and do not assume a scooter has seen you. Expect the unexpected on smaller roads too: dogs, chickens, and temple ceremonies or processions that can slow or stop traffic for a while.
Is it a good idea to drive at night?
Many smaller roads are poorly lit, and potholes and parked scooters are hard to see. Where you can, plan longer drives, especially inland or into the hills, so that you arrive before dark.
What licence do I need to drive in Bali?
That depends on the licence you hold and where it was issued. Our guide to the International Driving Permit explains what a permit is and how to get one before you travel.
Rules change and depend on your licence: check with the issuing authority before you drive, and ask us if you are unsure.
Our team will also tell you which licence you need for the car you want: ask on WhatsApp before you book.
Should I drive myself or book a car with a driver?
Self-drive gives you freedom: stop where you like, change plans on the day, and keep the car to yourself. A car with a driver means you skip the driving, the navigation and the parking, and the rate includes the driver and petrol.
These are different cars in our fleet: each car’s price says whether it is self-drive or comes with a driver. Browse the self-drive cars or the cars with a driver. Whether a self-drive car can also be booked with a driver, and the cost, is something our team confirms on WhatsApp.
Common questions
Is it worth renting a car in Bali?
Yes, if you want to explore beyond the main tourist areas at your own pace. A car makes it easy to reach the beaches in the east, the rice terraces around Ubud and the highlands around Bedugul without arranging a ride for every trip.
Can I use Uber in Bali?
No, Uber does not operate in Bali. Grab and Gojek are the ride-hailing apps most visitors use for short trips.
What should I do if police stop me?
Stay calm and polite, and show the documents you are asked for. Keep your licence, and your permit if you have one, with you whenever you drive.
How do I get around Bali if I do not want to drive?
Book a car that comes with a driver. For families and groups, the Toyota Alphard and HiAce come with a driver and petrol included.
What kind of car suits driving in Bali?
A smaller car is easier on narrow village roads and in tight parking, and an open-top car is best enjoyed on the coast or early in the day before the heat. See the self-drive cars and ask us which suits your plans.
If you have a question about driving in Bali or which car suits your trip, message us on WhatsApp at +62 817-9726-168 or use the contact page.