Warning for travellers riding scooters and mopeds overseas

A string of serious moped accidents involving Australian tourists in Bali has prompted new warnings about the importance of carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) – and the right licence – before you hop on a scooter overseas. 

Hiring a scooter might seem like an easy way to get around, but it can also land you in deep trouble if you’re not properly licensed. Without an IDP, or a valid Australian motorcycle licence, your travel insurance could be void – leaving you personally liable for often costly hospital bills and damages. 

In New South Wales, the NRMA is the only authorised provider of International Driving Permits, issued under the Australian Automobile Association (AAA). But many people don’t realise that an IDP is needed when driving or riding overseas. And even though hirers may not require you prove you have an IDP, insurance companies will. 

Bali cracks down on unruly tourists 

Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, issued a note to travellers in May focusing on local road behaviour and tourist conduct. The regulations make it clear that visitors must have both a valid licence and an International Driving Permit to ride scooters or motorbikes on the island. 

Other rules include wearing a helmet, obeying traffic signs, ensuring vehicles are legally registered and insured, and not riding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Authorities say the crackdown follows a rise in unsafe behaviour by tourists – many of whom end up in hospital after accidents involving rented scooters. 

Violators risk fines, confiscation of vehicles or, in more serious cases, deportation. 

Why travel insurance might not pay out 

The AAA and most major travel insurers agree: you must hold a valid Australian motorcycle licence to ride scooters or mopeds overseas – even if they’re under 50cc – and carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) showing the same vehicle class. 

If you’re found riding without either, your insurance is unlikely to cover any medical, legal or property damage costs. That means hospital bills, ambulance transfers or medical evacuations can quickly run into tens of thousands of dollars. 

Before you rent a scooter overseas: 

• Make sure your Australian licence includes a motorcycle endorsement.
• Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) before leaving Australia.
• Carry both your licence and IDP at all times when riding abroad. 

According to the AAA: “To legally ride a scooter or moped overseas, you must hold a valid Australian motorcycle licence and an International Driving Permit.” 

It’s not just Bali – Japan, Thailand, Italy and other countries too 

Even in destinations that seem more about fun than formality, the same rules apply. 

In Japan, a top international driving experience can be had by tourists joining real-life Mario Kart–style go-kart tours. Travellers must present a valid licence and IDP before taking part. In Thailand, the AAA says riders can also incur fines and run into legal issues without the correct IDP. And in Italy, a major Vespa hire company advises they will turn you away without both documents. 

So whether you’re weaving through Bali’s backstreets or coasting along the Amalfi Coast, an IDP isn’t optional – it’s legally required to ride safely and responsibly. 

How to get an International Driving Permit in NSW 

The NRMA is the only official provider of IDPs in New South Wales, through the AAA. Other motorist associations, like the RACV and RACQ, provide the same service in other states. 

You can apply easily online: 

• Visit The NRMA’s International Driving Permits page.
• Upload your Australian driver’s licence and a passport-style photo.
• Select if you want it mailed to you or in-store pickup.

An IDP costs less than a tank of fuel, lasts for 12 months, and is recognised in more than 150 countries. 

A small document that makes a big difference 

An International Driving Permit might not seem essential when you’re planning your next tropical getaway, but it’s the key to staying safe – and insured – abroad. 

Before you hire a scooter, motorbike or even a go-kart, check that your Australian licence includes the right class and that you’ve packed your IDP. It’s a small step that could save you from a world of trouble.