Many foreign nationals residing in Indonesia frequently inquire whether they are permitted to own a car or motorcycle under their own name. According to HukumOnline and relevant Indonesian police regulations, the answer is yes — foreigners may legally own motor vehicles in Indonesia, provided they fulfill the applicable requirements.
This is supported by several provisions in Indonesian National Police Regulation Number 7 of 2021 on the Registration and Identification of Motor Vehicles (Perpol 7/2021), including Article 1 point 1, Article 2 paragraph (1), Article 2 paragraph (2), Article 10 paragraph (6), and Article 5 paragraph (1).
Perpol 7/2021 defines motor vehicle registration and identification as a police function intended to verify a vehicle’s origin, roadworthiness, ownership status, and operational legitimacy (Article 1 point 1). Every motor vehicle operating in Indonesia must be registered (Article 2 paragraph (1)). The regulation further outlines several types of registration activities, including:
• Registration of new motor vehicles,
• Registration for changes in vehicle identity or owner identity,
• Renewal of registration, and
• Verification and validation of vehicle documents (Article 2 paragraph (2)).
Under Article 4 paragraph (1) of Perpol 7/2021, motor vehicle registration may be carried out for:
• Individuals,
• Government bodies,
• Business entities,
• Foreign state representatives,
• International organizations, and
• Foreign legal entities with permanent offices in Indonesia.
Because “individuals” are included, foreign nationals fall within the group permitted to register and own vehicles.
Required Documents for Foreign Vehicle Owners
To register a new motor vehicle, Perpol 7/2021 requires several mandatory documents, including:
1. Type Test Registration Certificate (SRUT)
2. Valid proof of ownership
3. Physical inspection results
4. Proof of the owner’s identity
5. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
6. Power of attorney if submitted by a representative (Article 10 paragraph (1))
For foreign nationals, identity document requirements depend on residency status. Foreigners holding a Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP) must provide their KITAP and identity card. Those with a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) must submit a residence statement along with their KITAS, as stipulated under Article 10 paragraph (6).
Once registration is approved, the police will issue:
• BPKB (Vehicle Ownership Book)
• STNK (Vehicle Registration Certificate)
• TNKB (License Plate Number)
These items serve as the official proof of ownership, as stated in Article 5 paragraph (1).
With the proper documentation required, foreigners can confidently purchase and register a car or motorcycle under their own name while living in Indonesia.
Source: hukumonline.com
Photo Credit: via https://www.group1cars.co.za/
