What you need and what it costs
| Point | Guide (October 2026) |
|---|---|
| Licence | National licence plus international permit (IDP) for cars |
| Minimum age | 21 according to one guide |
| Small car, per day | about 250,000 to 300,000 IDR |
| Family people carrier (Avanza, Innova) | about 350,000 to 450,000 IDR per day |
| With a driver | an Avanza with driver around 700,000 IDR for the day |
| Full insurance with no excess | 12 to 18 dollars more per day according to one guide |
The excess after a claim can reach 500,000 IDR per accident with some renters. Prices change with the season: compare on a platform before booking.
Driving in Bali: the real difficulties
You drive on the left, scooters weave on both sides and the roads of Ubud, Canggu and Seminyak are slow at peak times; a 20 km journey can take an hour or more. Parking is limited on narrow streets. For journey times, see Ubud to Canggu and Seminyak. If you are not comfortable, a private driver often costs little more than a rental with fuel and insurance. For two-wheelers, see scooter rental.
Pitfalls to avoid
Photograph the car from every angle at handover, check that insurance is written into the contract, ask for the deposit and the excess and keep a copy of the contract. Check the tyres and the air conditioning. Avoid driving at night in rural areas (animals, little lighting). Travel insurance does not cover a driver without a valid licence.
FAQ
Do you need an international permit to rent a car in Bali?
Yes according to guides, to be obtained in your own country before the trip.
How much is a car in Bali?
About 250,000 to 450,000 IDR per day depending on the model, with full insurance on top.
Is it better to take a driver?
Often yes if you are not used to driving on the left in Bali's traffic.
La rédaction Ubud Authority, information read on 30 October 2026.
