Riding on the Left in Bali: A Guide for Americans, Europeans & First-Timers
By the SiapPergi Editorial Team · Published · 6 min read
If you come from the US, Canada or mainland Europe, riding on the left takes a few days to feel natural. Most mistakes happen at junctions and when pulling out of a parking spot. These habits will help you adjust quickly.
Key differences
| Situation | In Bali (left-hand traffic) |
|---|---|
| Normal lane | Keep to the left |
| Overtaking | Pass on the right |
| Left turn | Short turn, staying close to the kerb |
| Right turn | Wide turn across oncoming traffic |
| Roundabouts | Traffic flows clockwise |
Habits that keep you safe
- Practise on a quiet road in the morning before tackling busy junctions.
- Check both mirrors and look over your right shoulder before changing lanes.
- After stopping at a café or petrol station, pause before pulling out and remind yourself to keep left.
- Expect scooters to pass on both sides; hold your line and don't swerve.
Reading local riders
A short horn tap means "I'm here". Indicators aren't always used, so watch the rider's head and position instead. At junctions, larger vehicles often take priority in practice, even when the rules say otherwise. More rules in Bali traffic rules & police checks.
Your first ride should be in daylight, solo, without luggage and on a light scooter such as a BeAT or Scoopy.
Scooters from IDR 70,000/day. Book on WhatsApp or via the Bali scooter rental catalogue: the bike is delivered to your hotel or villa and you pay when it arrives. Also read can Americans rent a scooter in Bali and visit SiapPergi — Bali scooter rental.
Ready to rent a scooter?
See estimated prices by area & model, then book on WhatsApp — the final price is confirmed before you pay.
Other areas & models:
Frequently asked questions
Does Bali drive on the left or right?
On the left, like the UK and Australia.
Which side do you overtake on in Bali?
On the right.
What is the hardest part for right-hand drivers?
Turning at junctions and pulling out from parking spots.
Why do Bali riders honk so much?
A short horn tap usually means "I'm here", a safety signal rather than anger.
This article follows the SiapPergi editorial policy: facts are checked, prices are given as ranges, and mistakes are corrected. Spotted something wrong? Report a correction.