Being a sprawling archipelago nation, Indonesia boasts a vast road network that covers more than 690,000 kilometers. The majority of it consists of city roads, concentrated specifically in densely populated areas such as Sumatra and Java, while the rest are segregated between national highways and toll roads to ensure faster inter-city travel.

In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed a substantial surge in vehicle ownership. Couple that with limited public transport options, and you get an inefficient traffic system. However, the Indonesian government has introduced a robust traffic management system, such as the Area Traffic Control Systems (ATCS), along with initiatives such as the Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) departments, to ensure optimized traffic flow and safety.

Additionally, to ensure that user convenience remains a key factor, the application and renewal of driving licenses in Indonesia have become straightforward processes (either online or offline) so that the nationโ€™s government can promote better driving and safety measures. And if you are looking to complete the renewal of your driving license in Indonesia, then our extensive guide should come in handy.

Steps to Follow For Renewal

The issuance and renewal of driving licenses in Indonesia, officially known as โ€˜SIMโ€™ (Surat Izin Mengemudi), is carried out by the Indonesian Republic Police. As a result, the organization has introduced the โ€˜POLRI Super Appโ€™ on Android and Apple smartphones.

Through the app, users can now not only apply for a new SIM but also opt for renewals. Keep in mind that SIM renewals can only be made 90 days before the SIM is about to expire. And once the SIM expires, it cannot be extended. Instead, users have to apply for a new one.

To start the renewal process, follow the below-mentioned steps judiciously.

  1. The primary step involves downloading the โ€˜POLRI Super Appโ€™ on your Android or Apple device from either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
  2. Once downloaded, launch the app, and then, from the appโ€™s home page, select โ€˜SIMโ€™.
  3. In the next step, select โ€˜SIM Nationalโ€™ to renew your national driverโ€™s license, and then you will be provided with a quick rundown of the rules and regulations that you need to follow. Remember, you have to complete the โ€˜Medical Check-Upโ€™ and โ€˜Psychological Testsโ€™ before you can start the renewal process.
  4. Once you have read through the fine print, click on ‘Start’, and you will then be asked to sign in to your โ€˜PRESISIโ€™ account. If you do not have an account, you can always create one.
  5. After signing in to your account, you will be required to fill out the online application form via the app. Ensure that you also provide a scanned image of your previous or current driverโ€™s license to complete the application process.
  6. Once done, pay the requisite fees for the renewal process online, either through your debit or credit card. Fees typically range between 50,000 IDR (Indonesian Rupiah) and 120,000 IDR.

After successfully making payment for your driving license renewal, you can choose the delivery process โ€“ either to get it delivered to your doorstep or to pick it up at a nearby police station.

Keep in mind that the operational timings for renewals are between Monday and Saturday, between 8 AM and 3 PM. If the specified time passes, then the renewal processing will be done on the next working day.

Other Ways to Renew License

Besides renewing your driverโ€™s license in Indonesia through the official app, you can also complete it physically by visiting your nearby police station. To do that, follow the suggested steps mentioned below.

  1. Begin by first locating your nearby regional police unit via the official website.
  2. Browse through the list of police units segregated based on their locations and choose the one where you originally obtained your SIM. Ensure that you also note down the address, phone number, and official website of the regional police unit that you are visiting.
  3. After that, head over to the designated address with your previous or current (to-be-expired) driving license, your passport (if you are a foreign national or living abroad), your identity proofs (KITAS/KITAP), and your residential proof.
  4. At the police station, you will need to pass a basic eye test, and once you are done, you will be required to fill out the application form for renewal.
  5. After that, proceed to pay the requisite fees for the renewal either via cash or credit or debit card.
  6. Finally, submit your application successfully.

After submission, you will be notified regarding the delivery date of your renewed driving license, on which you will need to pick up the document personally from the police station.

Some Useful Information

Indonesia categorizes driverโ€™s licenses, or SIMs, based on the type of vehicle you will be operating. There are primarily four main categories, namely SIM A, SIM B1, SIM B2, and SIM C.

SIM A is for private cars and goods vehicles weighing under 3500 kg, while SIM B1 is for vehicles exceeding 3500 kg (including buses and trucks). Additionally, SIM B2 is for operating heavy vehicles with trailers, requiring extended training and qualifications compared to B1. And lastly, SIM C is for motorcycle enthusiasts, allowing you to ride motorcycles of all engine sizes.

For any additional queries, you can call 110 from any Indonesian phone number or visit the Republic of Indonesia State Police at Jl. Trunojoyo No. 3, South Jakarta, Special Capital Region of Jakarta 12110.

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Last Update: May 7, 2024