Overview
The Surat Izin Mengemudi (SIM) is the driving licence of Indonesia. It is issued by the Indonesian National Police (POLRI) and must be renewed every 5 years. This page rests on the English Wikipedia article on the Indonesian driving licence, because the police pages could not be read when it was checked. The article says an applicant must pass both a theory examination and a practical or simulator examination, but it does not describe the theory test's format, so none is given here. Confirm details with the police licensing office.
Who can apply
Wikipedia lists these requirements for an individual applicant:
be of the minimum age for the class;
an Indonesian identity card (KTP);
an application form and fingerprint;
a medical certificate of physical health;
a psychological test result showing mental fitness;
passing both the theory and the practical or simulator examination.
Minimum ages and issuance fees by class, as listed by the article:
| Class | Vehicle | Minimum age | Fee (IDR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Private car or cargo vehicle up to 3,500 kg | 17 | 120,000 |
| B1 | Private vehicle over 3,500 kg | 20 | 120,000 |
| B2 | Private heavy equipment or towing vehicle | 21 | 120,000 |
| A Umum | Commercial vehicle up to 3,500 kg | 20 | 120,000 |
| B1 Umum | Commercial vehicle over 3,500 kg | 22 | 120,000 |
| B2 Umum | Commercial towing vehicle | 23 | 120,000 |
| C | Motorcycle up to 250 cc | 17 | 100,000 |
| C1 | Motorcycle 250 to 500 cc | 18 | 100,000 |
| C2 | Motorcycle over 500 cc | 19 | 100,000 |
| D | Special motorcycle for disabled people | 17 | 50,000 |
| D1 | Special car for disabled people | 17 | 50,000 |
Some classes need an earlier class first: B1 needs class A for at least one year, B2 needs B1 for a year, C1 needs C for a year, and C2 needs C1 for a year. The fees are as listed on the article in 2026, so check the current amount locally.
After the exam
A SIM is valid for 5 years and renewable. It is valid in all ASEAN member states without an International Driving Permit. There is no provisional licence in Indonesia.
FAQs
Who issues Indonesia's SIM driving licence?
The Indonesian National Police (POLRI).
How long is a SIM valid?
Five years, after which it is renewed.
Does a SIM work in other ASEAN countries?
Yes. Wikipedia says it is valid in ASEAN member states without an International Driving Permit.