International Driving Permit for Bali: What to Check First
Many visitors who plan to drive in Bali carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with their home licence. Whether you need one depends on the licence you hold, so check with the authority that issued your licence before you travel, and ask us on WhatsApp which licence you need for the car you want.
What is an International Driving Permit?
An IDP is a translation of your driving licence into several languages, in a standard booklet format, so that officials abroad can read it. It is not a licence on its own. It only works together with the full licence it translates, so you carry both whenever you drive. Your licence stays the document that says what you may drive; the permit simply makes it readable.
Do I need an IDP to drive in Bali?
That depends on your licence and where it was issued, and the requirements can change. Do not rely on a forum post or an AI summary for this: check the current rules with the authority that issued your licence, and check what applies to visitors in Indonesia before you set off.
Rules change and depend on your licence: check with the issuing authority before you drive, and ask us if you are unsure.
We also check this with you before you book. Tell our team on WhatsApp which car you want and where your licence was issued, and they will tell you which licence you need for that car.
How do I get an International Driving Permit?
Apply in your home country before you travel. An IDP is issued by the country that issued your licence, usually through a national motoring organisation or a body your government appoints, so it cannot be arranged once you are in Bali. Your licensing authority’s website names the right issuer.
The issuer will tell you exactly what it needs. Typically that is:
- your full, valid driving licence
- a passport-style photo
- an application form and a fee
Processing times vary, so apply well before your trip, and check that the dates printed on the permit cover your whole stay.
What if I would rather not drive?
Book a car that comes with a driver. Cars marked with a driver include the driver and petrol in the rate, so you do not drive, navigate or park at all. For families and groups, the Toyota Alphard and HiAce come with a driver. See 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.
Before you book a self-drive car
- Check the licence rules for your licence with the issuing authority.
- If you need a permit, get it at home before you fly.
- Ask our team which licence you need for the car you want.
- Read our guide to driving in Bali for the roads themselves.
Then browse the self-drive cars and send us the car and your dates.
Common questions
Is an International Driving Permit a driving licence?
No. It is a translation of your licence and is only valid when you carry it with the licence itself.
Can I get an International Driving Permit in Bali?
No. It is issued by the country that issued your licence, so apply at home before you travel.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
That depends on the issuing country. The dates are printed on the permit, so check that they cover your whole trip.
Which licence do I need to rent a car from Bali Travel Shop?
Ask our team on WhatsApp at +62 817-9726-168 before you book. Tell them the car you want and where your licence was issued, and they will tell you which licence you need.
Can I rent a car without driving it myself?
Yes. Cars marked with a driver come with a driver and petrol included in the rate.
If you have a question about licences or which car suits your trip, message us on WhatsApp at +62 817-9726-168 or use the contact page.