Scooter rental in Ubud: what to know before you ride
Renting a scooter in Ubud follows the same rules as the rest of Bali: a motorcycle licence from your own country plus an International Driving Permit endorsed for motorcycles, a helmet for rider and passenger, and a deposit in cash or as a card hold. The riding is what sets Ubud apart.
By Rodaku Rules and facts on this page last checked October 2026.
Where do I pick up a scooter in Ubud?
Many shops sit on the main roads of the centre, and delivery to a villa or hotel is common, so you can walk in or have a bike brought to you. Whichever you choose, film the bike before you leave and check the tyres, brakes, lights and fuel.
What is the traffic like in Ubud?
Central Ubud is slow, narrow and busy, with scooters and cars coming from every direction. Traffic is lighter on the side streets and north of town. If you have never ridden a scooter, spend your first day somewhere quiet.
How does the rainy season change riding in Ubud?
From roughly November to March the roads are wet and slippery. If you are new to riding, the rainy season is a hard time to learn in Ubud.
How long do day trips from Ubud take?
Day trips can take longer than the map suggests. Tirta Empul is roughly 20 to 30 minutes from the centre and Kintamani one to one and a half hours, and the hour of the day changes both.
Do police check scooters in Ubud?
Police checks happen in Ubud, as in the other tourist areas. Officers can ask to see your licence, your IDP and the bike's registration papers (STNK), and they check your helmet. Fines are set by law as maximums, up to Rp 1.000.000 for riding without a licence, so the amount on the day can differ. Travel insurance often excludes scooters, and riding without the right licence class may void a claim. Read the rental contract to see what the shop's own cover includes.
Did the 2023 plan to stop tourists renting motorbikes take effect?
In March 2023 Bali's governor announced a plan to stop foreign tourists renting motorbikes. We have not found confirmation that it took effect, and we last looked in October 2026. Rules for visitors change, so ask your shop or your accommodation before you book.