Before you rent a scooter

• A motorcycle licence valid for the machinePlus an International Driving Permit with motorcycle entitlement, or other legally recognised documentation as applicable. A car licence is not enough, and a rental shop accepting it changes nothing legally or for insurance. Without the right documents, do not ride.
• Insurance that actually covers ridingMost travel policies exclude motorbike accidents unless you hold the right licence.
• A proper helmet, worn every timeIncluding the passenger.
• Video the scooter before accepting itAll sides, slowly, with the renter present.
• Photograph existing damageScratches, cracked panels, worn tyres and the mirrors.
• Do not leave your original passport as a depositOffer a copy or a cash deposit instead. Your passport should stay with you.

Where to go

Police checkpoints in Canggu and Ubud are routine. To ride legally you need a driving licence valid for the motorcycle category plus an International Driving Permit, or other legally recognised documentation as applicable. A rental shop handing you the keys does not prove legal entitlement and does not mean your insurance would pay. If you do not already hold the right documents, do not ride — use Grab, Gojek or a car with a driver. Only Polri issues an Indonesian SIM licence.

• BIMC Hospital Kuta

  24-hour A&E if you come off — road rash needs cleaning properly

  +62 361 761263Map

Details change — call ahead to confirm.