Yes, a French (or other national) driving licence alone is not enough to legally ride a scooter or drive a car in Bali. Here's exactly what the international driving permit is, how to get one before you leave, and what really happens if you skip it.
Why a national licence isn't enough
Indonesia is party to international road conventions that require foreign visitors to hold, alongside their national driving licence, an international driving permit (IDP) recognised by the country. In practice, this is a small booklet that translates your licence into several languages and confirms which vehicle categories you're allowed to drive. Without it, your national licence has no legal standing on Indonesian roads, even if you're a fully licensed driver at home.
Scooter ban, tourist levy, code of conduct: → what really applies in 2026
Category A or B: which do you need?
- Category A: covers mopeds, scooters and motorcycles — the category needed for almost all BaliRoads itineraries.
- Category B: covers cars — required if you plan to self-drive rather than book a driver.
- Both categories can be requested on the same international permit if you hold the matching categories on your national licence.
How to get one in France before departure
- Apply online on the France Titres (ANTS) website: since 3 March 2026 the process has been fully online.
- Have ready your valid driving licence, proof of identity, proof of address under 6 months old and a digital photo-signature (e-photo) under 6 months old.
- Allow €7.25 for printing and postage, paid online by card, and around 15 days after your application is approved: apply at least a month before departure.
- It's valid for three years or for the validity period of your national licence, whichever is shorter — check the expiry date before you travel.
Procedures and requirements can change: always check the official current process on the relevant government website before applying, and confirm requirements for your own country of residence if you're not French.
What really happens without one
Police checkpoints on Bali's main roads are common, especially around Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta and Ubud. Riding without a valid international permit can result in an on-the-spot fine. But the bigger risk isn't the fine — it's what happens after an accident: without a valid permit, both your rental agency's cover and your travel insurance are far more likely to refuse to pay out for medical costs, repatriation or vehicle damage, precisely when you'd need that cover most.
Before you set off: checklist
- International driving permit with the right category (A and/or B)
- National driving licence carried alongside it — the IDP alone is not valid without it
- A photo or scan of both documents saved on your phone as backup
- Travel or rental insurance conditions checked for two-wheeler cover
Where you'll need it
❓ Frequently asked questions▾
Is a French licence enough to drive in Bali?
No. Indonesia requires an international driving permit in addition to your national licence, with the category matching the vehicle you're driving.
How do I get an international permit in France?
Only online, on the France Titres (ANTS) website, with your national licence, proof of identity, proof of address and an e-photo. It costs €7.25 and the permit usually arrives around 15 days after approval.
What's the risk of driving in Bali without an international permit?
A fine if stopped by police, and above all a real risk that your insurance refuses to cover you in the event of an accident.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace official sources. Always verify current requirements with your national authority before travelling.
📚 Sources▾
Sources consulted on 8 October 2026. Rules change: always check official sources before you travel.