Indonesia Driver's License
Driving in Indonesia — whether through Bali’s rice fields or Jakarta’s expressways — requires a valid driver’s license (SIM – Surat Izin Mengemudi).
For foreigners living or investing here, obtaining a local license is essential for insurance coverage, legal safety, and peace of mind.
This 2025 guide explains how to get a driver’s license in Indonesia, what types exist, what documents you need, and how the process works on Bali.
Driver’s License in Indonesia 2025
| Category | Key Info |
|---|---|
| Official Name | SIM (Surat Izin Mengemudi) |
| Issued By | Polri (Indonesian National Police) |
| Main Types | SIM A – car, SIM C – motorcycle |
| Foreigners Eligible | Yes, with valid visa or KITAS/KITAP |
| Validity | 5 years (renewable) |
| Processing Time | 1–3 days |
| Approx. Cost | $25–50 (official fee) |
SIM Types Explained
| License Type | Vehicle Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SIM A | Cars / 4-wheel vehicles up to 3,500 kg | For personal cars |
| SIM B1 / B2 | Trucks, buses, heavy vehicles | Requires SIM A first |
| SIM C | Motorcycles ≤ 250 cc | Common for expats |
| SIM C1 / C2 | Motorcycles > 250 cc | For large-capacity bikes |
| SIM D | Vehicles for disabled persons | Special category |
| SIM Internasional | International license issued by Polri | Valid in 90+ countries |
Tip: Most expats in Bali apply for SIM A and/or SIM C depending on their daily transport — car, scooter, or both.
Who Can Apply
Foreigners can apply if they hold:
- Passport + visa (tourist, business, KITAS, or KITAP)
- Residence proof — e-KTP Orang Asing or domicile letter
- Medical certificate (available at Satpas or nearby clinic)
If you’re on a tourist visa, you can get a 3-month temporary SIM through authorized driving schools like Bali Driving Center in Denpasar.
Required Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Passport + visa | Identity verification |
| KITAS / KITAP | Residence status |
| Domicile letter | Proof of address in Indonesia |
| Medical certificate | Vision and health test |
| NPWP (optional) | Tax ID — sometimes requested for KITAS holders |
| Materai (tax stamp) | Used for official forms |
Application Process (Example: Bali – Denpasar Satpas)
- Prepare documents and visit the Satpas (license center).
- Take a medical test (eyesight and reflexes).
- Fill out the application form and submit copies of your ID and visa.
- Attend theory and practical tests — driving course on-site for scooters or cars.
- Pay the official fee:
SIM A: ~250,000 IDR
SIM C: ~150,000 IDR - Wait for license printing — usually same day or next.
Average processing time: 1–3 working days.
Processing Timeline Overview
| Stage | Process | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Document Prep | Collect passport, KITAS, domicile letter | 1 day |
| Medical Check & Test | Eye & reaction test | 30 minutes |
| Theory & Practical | Conducted at Satpas or certified driving school | 1–2 days |
| License Printing | Final step at Polri Office | Same day / next day |
In total, you can usually get your SIM within 2–3 days if all documents are ready.
Renewal Process
Validity: 5 years (same for foreigners and locals).
Renewal: Apply before expiry at any Polri Satpas or via Digital Korlantas Polri App.
Requirements: Old SIM, passport/KITAS, new medical check, and renewal fee.
Renewals can be done 100% online since 2023 — just upload your documents and collect the new card in person.
International & Temporary Licenses
Short-term visitors can legally drive with:
- International Driving Permit (IDP) + valid home country license.
- Validity: up to 6 months (not renewable locally).
After 6 months or with KITAS status, you must obtain a local SIM.
SIM for Electric Vehicles (EV)
From 2025, Indonesia’s National Police (Polri) plans to introduce a new SIM category for electric vehicles (EVs) — covering both electric cars and e-bikes.
Testing requirements will be simplified, focusing on battery safety and silent-vehicle awareness.
This reflects Indonesia’s national goal to promote electric mobility and eco-friendly transport by 2030.
