Riding Without a Helmet or Shirt: New Police Crackdowns and Fines

Riding Without a Helmet or Shirt in Indonesia: Police Crackdowns, Fines, and Cultural Norms

In recent years, Indonesian authorities have tightened traffic law enforcement, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as Bali. Motorcycle and scooter riders are under increased scrutiny — common violations include riding without a helmet, driving against traffic, and disrespectful behavior such as semi-nude riding. In both 2024 and 2025, police have conducted regular operations as part of the Operasi Zebra campaign, aimed at improving road safety and encouraging adherence not only to legal regulations but also to cultural norms.

Police Checkpoints in Bali: Who’s Stopped and Why

The Operasi Zebra campaign is held regularly and typically lasts 10–14 days. In 2024, it was once again launched in Bali, covering both major roads and tourist zones including Kuta, Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. Patrols stop everyone — both local drivers and foreigners.

Top Reasons for Being Stopped:

• not wearing a helmet or using a non-certified one;
• violating traffic lanes or driving against the flow;
• driving without a Category C driver’s license (or an international license with official translation);
• invalid or missing STNK (vehicle registration document);
• no side mirrors, missing plates, fake documents, or other traffic violations.

Although the focus is on safety, tourists are often stopped for violating standards of public appearance, such as riding bare-chested.

Fines for Riding Without a Helmet in Indonesia

Under Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation (UU No. 22 Tahun 2009), riding a motorcycle without a helmet or with a helmet that does not meet the national safety standard is subject to administrative penalties.

Fine Amount:

• 250,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) — equivalent to about 15–16 USD at the end of 2025.

This falls under Article 291 of the law. The fine may be levied directly by an officer, but officially it must be processed through a formal citation and paid via government payment systems such as BRIVA or e-Tilang.

Helmet Requirements: SNI Standard Only

In Indonesia, helmets must have the SNI (Standar Nasional Indonesia) certification mark. This confirms that the product has passed safety testing and meets national standards. Wearing cheap, decorative, non-SNI helmets is punishable similarly to not wearing a helmet at all.

Riding Without a Shirt: Not Illegal, But Still Risky

Legally, there is no explicit ban on riding a scooter or motorcycle without a shirt. However, such behavior is widely frowned upon and could lead to unwanted consequences, especially in areas populated by locals and religious communities.

Cultural Context

• Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country. While Bali is mostly Hindu, conservative values are observed across the archipelago.
• Riding without an upper garment is often seen as a challenge to public morality, especially near temples, schools, or residential neighborhoods.
• No formal fine applies, but riders might receive warnings, be photographed, or publicly shamed on social media as part of community awareness campaigns.

In some cases, repeat offenses may be reported to immigration authorities as part of a “problematic foreigner” report (data WNA bermasalah). This may affect visa extensions or result in official warnings — cases like these have been documented by local media, including The Bali Daily and Coconuts Bali.

Typical Consequences:

• being stopped and given a verbal warning by police or a community elder (banjar leader);
• photos of the offender published as part of local cultural protection campaigns;
• in extreme cases — summoned by immigration officials and issued a warning or noted in their tourist record.

How to Avoid Fines and Conflicts: Basic Rules

Here are some basic tips for anyone planning to ride a motorcycle or scooter in Indonesia:

• Always wear a certified helmet with the SNI mark.
• Carry a valid national or international Category C driver’s license.
• Always have the STNK — the official vehicle registration certificate — with you.
• Avoid riding in inappropriate or revealing attire — shirtless, in swimwear, or with a bare torso.
• Follow road signs and respect the local flow of traffic.

Conclusion: Respecting the Law Is Respecting the Culture

At first glance, the rules may seem strict, but they serve to ensure both road safety and the preservation of social norms. Indonesia is a country with deep-rooted traditions, and even tourist-friendly Bali remains a part of that cultural fabric. Following local laws and behaving respectfully on the road helps avoid trouble with police or immigration — and most importantly, earn the respect of the local community.

For the latest updates on fines and road operations in Bali, follow official channels from the Indonesian National Police and Transport Ministry.