You’re in Indonesia and you want to go on a road trip. Sure, you’re qualified to hit the roads - but are you in Indonesia?
Having the right documents in a foreign country is pivotal for a pleasant time. So if you’re keen to follow through that road trip agenda with your family or friends, or merely get behind the wheel around town, you are required to carry an international driver's permit.
Let’s unravel what you need to know…
Applying for International Driver’s Permits in Indonesia
Who can apply?
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. A valid driver's permit from your home country is one point to check off. KITAS holders are not allowed to apply for an international driving permit (SIM), only KITAP holders are, according to the official website of the Traffic Corps of Indonesian National Police.
At least 92 countries that were amongst the ratification of the 1968 Vienna Convention can be issued international driver’s permits under the Indonesian National Police’s authority. Such countries listed are France, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, Denmark, Spain, Romania, Germany, Greece, the Czech Republic, Croatia, and Finland to name a few.
Required Documents
Several requirements must be prepared and met to apply for your international driver’s permit. Confirm that you have the following:
National ID
Permanent Stay Permit Card (KITAP) for foreign citizens
Valid passport
Photocopy of your driver’s permit (SIM) at present
Original valid driving permit according to the international driver’s permit category will be submitted
Two copies of recent passport-sized portraits with certain conditions; wearing a shirt with buttons, a white background, not using glasses or contact lenses, and face facing the camera
Signature written on white paper using black ink
If an international driving permit is to be extended, a valid one must also be included
Application Process
The waiting period for your international driver’s permit may vary. It normally takes several days to a week until your application has been processed and approved. You will then receive a card-sized document that indicates your legitimate international driver's permit.
There are two methods to apply: offline and online.
Offline
First is by visiting the nearest Indonesian Traffic Corps Station, commonly known as the “Korlantas Polri” or Police Traffic Unit. These offices are usually located in major cities throughout the country.
Bring the required documents as stated above, alongside completing an application form provided at the venue and a paid fee. In most cases, documents in languages other than Indonesian must be accompanied by an official translation. Ensure that all your documents are complete and properly translated if necessary.
Online
The second method is to complete applications online through this website. Register online by filling in personal data, such as uploading a photo of a valid driver’s permit, a photo of your ID card, a photo of your passport, a photo of your KITAP (for foreigners), a photo pass with a white background colour, and a photo of your signature.
Next, choose how to retrieve it, either by picking it up yourself at the Traffic Corps International Driver’s Permit Service Office or having it sent directly to your home.
After completely filling in everything, you will receive the PNBP International Driver’s Permit payment account number and delivery service rates. You can pay via ATM, M-Banking, Internet Banking or cash deposits at the bank.
Once the payment is done, the officer will receive an electronic confirmation and then verify and validate your data.
Fee
The cost of making a new international driver's permit is Rp250,000, while the renewal is Rp225,000.
Validity Period and Renewal
With your international driver's license in hand, you are now legally allowed to drive in Indonesia. But always remember to bring both your international driver's permit and your driver's permit from your home country at all times.
An international driving permit is valid for three years from the date of issuance. If you plan to stay longer or return to Indonesia in the future, make sure to renew your driver's licence before its expiry.
