Driving in Indonesia comes with clear legal obligations, particularly when it comes to carrying valid driving documents. Indonesian traffic authorities require motorists to carry a driver’s license (SIM) and vehicle registration certificate (STNK) at all times while on the road. Failure to do so can result in fines or even short-term detention under national traffic law.
According to Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation, motorists must present specific documents during roadside inspections conducted by the police. These include:
1. A valid vehicle registration certificate (STNK) or temporary vehicle registration
2. A driver’s license (SIM) that matches the vehicle type being driven
3. A proof of periodic vehicle inspection where applicable
4. Other legally recognized documents.
Penalties for Not Carrying a Driver’s License (SIM) and Vehicle Registration (STNK)
Motorists who legally hold a SIM but fail to carry it during a traffic inspection face penalties under Article 288(2) of the law. This offense carries a maximum punishment of one month in detention or a fine of up to approximately USD 16.
While the penalty may seem minor, it is still treated as a traffic violation and can result in a formal citation. Police stress that forgetting a SIM does not exempt drivers from responsibility, even if the license is valid.
Failing to present an STNK during a roadside check is considered a more serious violation. Under Article 288(1), drivers without a valid STNK face up to two months in detention or a fine of up to USD 32.
Authorities emphasize that the STNK serves as proof of vehicle legality and ownership, making it essential for road safety and law enforcement.
What If You Don’t Have a Driver’s License at All?
The penalties are significantly heavier for motorists who do not possess a SIM at all. Under Article 281, driving without a valid license can result in up to four months in detention or a fine of up to USD 64. This applies to drivers operating vehicles without the appropriate license category.
If a driver is stopped without both a SIM and an STNK, the combined fine can reach approximately USD 48.
Although Indonesia has introduced digital versions of driving documents through official police applications—such as Signal for STNK and Digital Korlantas for SIM—these do not replace physical documents. Police have clearly stated that digital IDs function only as complementary tools, not substitutes during roadside inspections.
To avoid fines, delays, or legal trouble, motorists are strongly advised to always carry physical copies of their SIM and STNK when driving in Indonesia. Even in an increasingly digital system, compliance with document requirements remains strictly enforced.
Source: Detik
Special Photo Credit: Warta Kota/Henry Lopulalan
