Travelling around Bali by car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Whether you’re planning to visit Ubud’s rice terraces, the beaches of Seminyak, or the cliffs of Uluwatu, renting a car is a convenient option that’s widely available across the island.
However, driving in Bali isn’t the same as driving in Europe, Australia, or North America. Narrow roads, heavy traffic, and different driving habits can surprise first-time visitors, while many travellers don’t realise that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required before getting behind the wheel.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about renting a car in Bali, including legal requirements, typical costs, local driving conditions, and when hiring a private driver may be the smarter choice.
Check: Where to Stay in Bali (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can tourists rent a car in Bali? | Yes, it’s legal and widely available. |
| Do you need a licence? | Yes, a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and your home driving licence. |
| Is self-driving recommended? | It depends on your driving experience and itinerary. |
| Average daily rental cost | Around IDR 150,000–350,000 for a small car. |
| Alternative option | Hire a private driver for the day. |
What You Legally Need to Rent and Drive a Car in Bali
To drive legally in Bali, you’ll need both your regular driving licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country before travelling to Indonesia.
While some rental companies may not ask to see your IDP, it remains a legal requirement. Driving without one could result in fines, insurance complications, or liability issues if you’re involved in an accident.
Before your trip:
- Apply for your IDP before leaving home.
- Carry both licences whenever you drive.
- Keep digital copies stored securely online.
- Check that your travel insurance covers rental vehicles.
Important: Driving without a valid IDP may invalidate your travel insurance, even if the rental company allows you to collect the vehicle.
What Driving in Bali Is Really Like
Driving in Bali requires patience and confidence.
Roads are often narrow and shared with scooters, pedestrians, street vendors, and even animals. Traffic around Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta can become particularly busy during peak hours, while rural roads may have limited signage and uneven surfaces.
Here’s what to expect:
- Traffic drives on the left-hand side.
- Scooters frequently filter between vehicles.
- Lane discipline is more flexible than in many countries.
- Parking in busy tourist areas can be limited.
- GPS is helpful but isn’t always perfect in remote areas.
None of this makes driving impossible, but it does mean you should feel comfortable driving in busy and sometimes unpredictable conditions.
Self-Drive vs Hiring a Private Driver
Self-driving is a good option if you:
- Enjoy driving independently.
- Want complete flexibility.
- Plan to explore quieter areas.
- Feel confident navigating unfamiliar roads.
Hiring a private driver is often better if you:
- Are visiting Bali for the first time.
- Are travelling with children or older people family members.
- Prefer to relax during long journeys.
- Want local knowledge and recommendations.
Once fuel, parking, and the convenience of having someone else navigate the roads are considered, hiring a private driver is often better value than many visitors expect.
Our Concierge Services in Bali
Renting a Scooter Instead
Scooters are extremely popular in Bali and can often be the fastest way to travel through busy areas.
However, they’re also one of the most common causes of tourist injuries. Riding a scooter legally requires both an International Driving Permit and the correct motorcycle endorsement.
If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, Bali isn’t the ideal place to learn. For many visitors—especially those travelling with family—a rental car or private driver is a safer and more comfortable choice.
You need to know wich: Best Areas in Bali for Families
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Bali?
Rental prices depend on the season, vehicle type, and duration of your booking.
| Vehicle | Average Daily Cost |
|---|---|
| Small car | IDR 150,000–350,000 |
| SUV | IDR 350,000–600,000 |
| Car with driver (10 hours) | IDR 500,000–800,000 |
| Fuel | Usually not included |
| Parking | Usually not included |
Weekly and monthly rentals often reduce the daily rate.
Always confirm what’s included before booking, especially insurance coverage and any additional charges.
Tips for Renting a Car Safely in Bali
- Book through a reputable rental company or trusted concierge service.
- Check exactly what the insurance covers.
- Photograph and video the vehicle before driving away.
- Avoid driving late at night outside the main tourist areas.
- Carry some cash for parking and small local fees.
- Familiarise yourself with local traffic rules before setting off.
If you’re staying in a professionally managed villa, ask the concierge team for trusted transport recommendations—they’ll often have reliable local partners and can assist if any issues arise during your stay.
Getting Around Bali the Easy Way
Whether you decide to rent a car, hire a private driver, or use a scooter depends on your confidence, itinerary, and travel style.
For many visitors—particularly families and first-time travellers—a private driver offers the easiest and most relaxing way to explore the island.
If you’re arriving at Ngurah Rai International Airport, it’s also worth planning your Airport transfers before your flight so you can start your holiday smoothly.
If you’d like help arranging a trusted rental car or experienced local driver, the Gravity Concierge team is happy to organise everything before you arrive, giving you one less thing to think about when planning your Bali holiday.