Renting a car in Bali as a Canadian: licence, insurance and roads

Your licence

You must carry an International Driving Permit along with your Canadian driver's licence. Indonesian authorities may also ask you to get approval for a permit obtained outside Indonesia.

Only CAA issues International Driving Permits in Canada. It costs $32 including tax, lasts one year, and is only valid with your Canadian licence.

Insurance: what to check

• Travel insurers may deny claims if you drive or ride without the proper licence or permit for that type of vehicle, including motorbikes and mopeds.
• Rental scooters are often stolen, and renters may have to pay to replace them.

Roads, tolls and parking

• If you plan to rent a car, the Government of Canada suggests you consider hiring a driver rather than driving yourself.
• Traffic can be extremely congested and road users are often unpredictable. If you hire a car, taxi or driver, use legal companies.
• Hazards include reckless driving, poor road conditions, inadequate lighting, poor signage and heavy congestion. Avoid driving at night outside major cities, as some vehicles don't use their lights.

Staying safe on the road

• Motorcycles and scooters are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners in places like Bali.
• If you are in a collision, you must stop, exchange information and help the other drivers. Serious accidents can draw angry crowds, so stay in your vehicle until police arrive.
• Canada advises a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism.