Bottom Line: Bali police have launched a large-scale traffic crackdown called ‘Operation Zebra’ (with nearly 1,700 officers deployed) ahead of the holiday season, focusing on foreign tourists who lack experience or are used to driving on the right side of the road. The official stance is clear: those without riding experience are advised not to rent scooters on their own. If you do rent, rental companies should provide basic instruction or arrange for a professional driver to accompany you.
【Bali Enters Pre-Holiday Season: Police Launch Large-Scale Traffic Crackdown ‘Operation Zebra’】
Bali welcomes the important festival Galungan (November 18–20) in November, followed by the Christmas and New Year holidays in December, making the streets busier than usual. To prevent an increase in accidents, local police have launched the annual traffic enforcement operation ‘Operation Zebra’ ahead of time.
At popular intersections, you’ll see more officers deployed—nearly 1,700 law enforcement personnel are conducting checks, especially targeting foreign tourists riding scooters.
Police say one of the key focuses of this crackdown is the traffic safety of foreign visitors, particularly those accustomed to driving on the right or with no riding experience.
【No Experience, No Riding! Police Strongly Urge Tourists to Avoid Driving Scooters Themselves】
With Bali’s heavy traffic and ever-changing road conditions, police remind: tourists without riding experience should not attempt to drive scooters on their own.
Bali Traffic Police representative, Superintendent Turmudi, stated:
“Foreigners who are unfamiliar with two-wheeled vehicles or lack experience are strongly advised not to ride motorcycles on their own. This is to protect both the safety of travelers and local residents.”
Beyond safety concerns, he also noted that this measure helps rental companies reduce losses from accidents. If renting to beginners, police recommend:
→ Provide a professional driver to accompany them to avoid risks and disputes.
【Large Rental Companies Must Offer Training: From Control Introduction to Four Basic Training Items】
To enhance travel quality, police encourage large motorcycle rental operators to provide mandatory basic instruction or short training courses.
For example, BaliMotion offers free training, including:
- Explanation of control buttons and vehicle functions
- Actual start-up operation
- Four basic driving exercises
- Total duration of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
These training sessions significantly reduce the risks for novice riders and give travelers greater peace of mind.
【Enforcement Actions Expand: Nighttime Crackdowns in Canggu on Unlicensed Riders and Those Without Helmets】
Recently, nighttime surprise inspections have also been carried out in the Canggu area, with police conducting unannounced roadblocks to catch those riding without helmets and other violations.
No fines were issued during this operation. Police primarily issued verbal warnings, hoping to remind tourists to enhance their safety awareness.
【Rise in Foreign Tourist Accidents: 142 Cases in 2024, 21 Deaths】
According to police statistics, there were 142 traffic accidents involving foreign nationals in 2024, a 35% increase from 2023.
The numbers are staggering:
- 21 foreign deaths
- 3 serious injuries
- 171 minor injuries
- Estimated losses of approximately 2.11 billion Indonesian rupiah (around USD$13,000)
Police say accident numbers have slightly decreased in 2025, but still urge tourists to strictly follow traffic rules.
【What Do You Think? Can Professional Drivers Help Beginners?】
Bali’s roads are vibrant but also complex and unpredictable. The new regulations introduced by police aim to help tourists safely experience the island’s beauty.
Could providing drivers or basic instruction help novice travelers feel more at ease? It’s worth pondering.
FAQ
Do foreigners need an international driver’s license to ride a motorcycle in Bali?
Yes, you need a valid international driver’s permit along with your home country’s license, as police conduct random checks.
Can travelers with no riding experience rent a motorcycle?
Renting is possible, but police strongly advise against riding yourself, and recommend rental companies provide a driver.
Will I be fined for not wearing a helmet?
Usually yes, but during specific traffic campaigns, warnings may be given instead.
Do I need insurance before renting a motorcycle?
It’s highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers traffic accidents.
Is Canggu a hotspot for enforcement?
Yes, due to the high concentration of foreign tourists, police often conduct surprise checks there.
