For many Australians, the quintessential Bali holiday involves hopping on a rented moped to explore the island's beaches and vibrant streets. However, this iconic experience is set for a major shake-up as Balinese authorities implement a significant crackdown on tourist riders following a concerning number of traffic accidents.
New Rules for Renting Two-Wheelers
Senior Commissioner Turmudi has issued a direct appeal to foreign visitors, particularly those unfamiliar with motorised vehicles. He strongly advised unskilled tourists against driving motorbikes alone. To mitigate risks, he recommended that if tourists rent a vehicle, a professional driver should accompany them. This measure is intended to protect both foreign nationals and the local citizens who own the rental businesses.
This new stance from officials comes as a direct response to a high volume of traffic collisions involving foreigners. Official data from the Bali Regional Police recorded 142 major collisions involving tourists in 2024. While this figure represents a 35 per cent decrease from the previous year, authorities believe many more minor incidents go unreported, prompting this proactive safety campaign.
Stricter Checks at Rental Outlets
Australian tourists can now expect much more rigorous verification processes when renting motorbikes and mopeds. Rental outlets are enforcing the legal requirement for an international driver's licence that specifically covers the class of vehicle being rented.
Many Australians mistakenly believe their standard car licence permits them to ride a motorcycle in Bali, but this is often not the case. While some car licences automatically allow the rider to operate a 50cc moped, the vast majority of rental bikes on the island are at least 125cc, requiring the correct motorcycle endorsement on an international permit.
Beyond document checks, rental staff may soon require potential customers to demonstrate their driving ability before any agreement is signed. This could involve a staff member observing the tourist as they navigate a nearby car park or drive around the block to confirm they can handle the vehicle safely.
Traffic Woes and Seasonal Pressures
The enforcement push also addresses the island's worsening traffic congestion, exacerbated by a continuous increase in vehicles, especially in popular tourist zones like Seminyak and Canggu. The situation is particularly acute in the Badung Regency, home to hotspots including Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu, where the number of registered motorised vehicles is nearly double the local population.
Authorities are bracing for the upcoming Christmas and New Year period, which sees thousands of international visitors descend on Bali, coinciding with the challenging rainy season. This combination of heavy tourist traffic and wet weather creates perfect conditions for accidents, making the new rental regulations a critical part of the island's safety strategy.
