Bali Driving Tips
Before setting go to explore the island of Bali, especially when you are on your own and not with driver, it would be great if you pay attention into the following information.
Driving License
An International driving license is a must. If you do not posses it, a Tourist Driving License in Bali can be obtained at Cok Agung Tresna Street No. 14, Renon, Denpasar. The office is in the Pelayanan Samsat Building, BPKB section. Requirements: one copy of passport (photo and identification pages and entry visa page) and one copy of valid home country driving license. A car or motorcycles license will cost about Rp.75.000 each and are valid for one month. Obtain and complete the application form, pay the fee and have your photograph taken on the spot. The licenses are ready in ten minutes. Contact: 243-939, Foreign License Service.
Check Your Car
On the hand-over, please check the car e.g. the spare part wheel, vehicles's license, whether it is gasoline or diesel fule, etc.
Maps and Information
Free maps often available in most department stores for easy pick up. Buying detailed maps with information such as from Periplus is by far better. A simple distance / time between location is available here.
What to do and not to do
- In many places cattles e.g. cows and dogs are often crossing the street, just speed down and be careful.
- Religious ceremonies and cultural festivals may occupy the road - if you are caught behind it, enjoy the experience and do not horn.
- As developing country, during peak hours, roads especially in the towns are quite busy, please be patient.
- It is not unusual for cars and motorbikes to swerve into your lane especially in around traffic light or where obstacles on the sides of the road exist e.g. parked cars or trolley procession.
- Drivers (often motorbike) from side streets sometimes do not look the situation when joining the main road, please be aware.
- There are several places where traffic in the left lane may turn or continue straight through while the light is red with a sign "Belok kiri jalan terus" or "Lurus Jalan terus"
- Remember to "toot" your horn when going around curves on mountainous roads as drivers sometimes drive in the middle of the road, especially when they think it is quite.
- There are a lot of one way roads in Bali (meant to help traffic flow but it has not really turned out that way). If you miss your turn off, you may have drive quite a distance before being able to turn back. This has resulted in motorbike riders riding a few hundred meters in the wrong direction, as a shortcut rather than following traffic flow. Be alert!
