SIM Internasional (International Driving License)

[El_Goretto]

Hi everyone,

I made a SIM Internasional some years ago when I was still on KITAP. Due to personal circumstances, I am now on KITAS.

My SIM Internasional has already expired so I need to make a new one for an upcoming trip.

I was delighted to see that the procedure is now done online, however the requirement for foreigners is to have a KITAP.

Has anyone successfully applied with a KITAS only?

 

[serious_fun]

Strange requirement since the SIM would the same regardless of your visa, yes?

 

[flavus]

Strange requirement since the SIM would the same regardless of your visa, yes?

Strange but unfortunately not unique. In the US many states do something similar, tying driver license expiration to when your legal stay expires, so it's brutal for those on work visas (3yr) or conditional permanent residency (2yr). While in Europe, Germany is happy to give non-expiring DL to anyone.

What is odd in the Indonesian context is SIM is not a valid ID - KTP is - so what's the big deal letting KITAS holders apply indeed?

 

[Helpful Herbert]

Not sure what a SIM internasional is - I have used my Indonesian SIM to rent cars in Europe with no problem.

 

[flavus]

Not sure what a SIM internasional is - I have used my Indonesian SIM to rent cars in Europe with no problem.

It serves as a legal translation, and in some countries are indeed not necessary provided the driver license meets some requirements.

I've used mine abroad without issues too, though it's always useful to check.

And interestingly - Indonesia is sort of not really part of the international treaty governing driving abroad, but China is definitely out. If you want to drive there you must have a Chinese license.

 

[centurion]

It serves as a legal translation, and in some countries are indeed not necessary provided the driver license meets some requirements.

I've used mine abroad without issues too, though it's always useful to check.

And interestingly - Indonesia is sort of not really part of the international treaty governing driving abroad, but China is definitely out. If you want to drive there you must have a Chinese license.

Indonesia signed the Convention on Road and Traffic in 1968, and the form of SIM Internasional is in accordance with the International Driving License. It is valid in countries where you do not have residence, and that are part of the Convention.

 

[snpark]

SIM indonesian driving licence kitas or kitap

International driving licence is different. That is what you use in Europe etc. You get a 1 year passport style book in Indonesia using your licence here to prove you can drive and they give you a permit to let you drive overseas

 

[El_Goretto]

So indeed, it's clear that there is no way to get one while still under KITAS.

It's ok, no big deal, I'll manage.

Thank you for your help.

 

[Hermes]

Just got my Indonesian IDP using the online application process with Polri. Very smooth and received it in about three weeks via tracked Pos Indonesia delivery. I'm on a Kitap, so was able to apply. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue, though unfortunately my SIM expires in late 2024 so I won't be able to take advantage if the renewal SIM has a different number. One issue to note is that it's not possible to get both the SIM A and SIM C endorsements in one book/application. You need to go through the procedure twice (and pay twice) unlike in other countries where one book holds all your vehicle endorsements.

 

[harryopal1]

Just got my Indonesian IDP using the online application process with Polri. Very smooth and received it in about three weeks via tracked Pos Indonesia delivery. I'm on a Kitap, so was able to apply. The permit is valid for three years from the date of issue, though unfortunately my SIM expires in late 2024 so I won't be able to take advantage if the renewal SIM has a different number. One issue to note is that it's not possible to get both the SIM A and SIM C endorsements in one book/application. You need to go through the procedure twice (and pay twice) unlike in other countries where one book holds all your vehicle endorsements.

What was the cost?

 

[Hermes]

What was the cost?

Rp. 250.000 for the permit, plus Rp. 51.700 for express, tracked delivery to Bali. If one is in Jakarta, the permit can be collected directly from Polri and thereby avoid the delivery charges. All info is here: https://siminternasional.korlantas.polri.go.id/

 

[Hermes]

So indeed, it's clear that there is no way to get one while still under KITAS.

It's ok, no big deal, I'll manage.

Thank you for your help.

Last resort would be to WA the Polri customer service line for SIM Internasional at 0819-0150-0669 and ask directly.

 

[serious_fun]

Now I want to see Javanese drivers on overseas roads!

 

[ilovered]

@serious_fun , we saw one carrying a bed frame. Like a queen size bed frame.