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Motorbike Insurance in Indonesia: SWDKLLJ, STNK, and STCK Explained for Expats.

  • Writer: Be Protected Indonesia
    Be Protected Indonesia
  • Oct 27
  • 3 min read

If you own or plan to buy a motorbike in Indonesia, you’ll quickly hear terms like SWDKLLJ, STNK, STCK, and PKB (vehicle tax). Many riders — especially expats — assume that paying their annual tax already means they are insured.

The truth? SWDKLLJ is not the same as motorbike insurance. In this article, we’ll explain the difference and why having proper insurance is still the smartest choice for protecting your motorbike in Indonesia.


1. What is SWDKLLJ?

SWDKLLJ (Sumbangan Wajib Dana Kecelakaan Lalu Lintas Jalan) is a mandatory contribution collected each year together with your motorbike tax.

  • Managed by Jasa Raharja (a state-owned company).

  • Provides basic compensation for accident victims:

    • Death → up to IDR 50,000,000

    • Permanent disability → up to IDR 50,000,000

    • Medical treatment → up to IDR 20,000,000

    • Funeral costs → IDR 4,000,000

SWDKLLJ protects people, not your motorbike.



Indonesian policewoman in Bali checking motorbike documents during a traffic stop, reminding riders of STNK, SWDKLLJ, and insurance requirements.


2. What is Motorbike Insurance?

Unlike SWDKLLJ, motorbike insurance is voluntary and offered by private insurers such as Zurich, Axa or Oona.

  • TLO (Total Loss Only): Covers theft or damage ≥ 75% of bike’s value.

  • Comprehensive (All Risk): Covers theft and all types of damage (big or small).

  • Third-Party Liability (TPL): Protects you if you cause injury or damage to others.

Insurance protects the bike, the rider, and third parties.



3. What is STNK?

STNK (Surat Tanda Nomor Kendaraan) = Vehicle Registration Certificate.

  • Proves your bike is legally registered.

  • Renewed annually with your tax payment.

  • Every 5 years, you must change license plates and do a physical inspection at Samsat.


4. What is STCK?

STCK (Surat Tanda Coba Kendaraan) = Temporary Vehicle Permit.

  • Given when a new bike is waiting for registration plates.

  • Lets you legally use the bike during the waiting period.

  • Valid for 1 month, extendable if needed.

It is possible to get insurance with this document. Once you receive your official STNK, simply contact Be Protected Indonesia and we will switch your insurance policy details. At BPI, we also send a reminder after 30 days so you never miss the update. We are always on your side.



5. Comparison Table: SWDKLLJ vs Insurance vs STNK vs STCK

Aspect

SWDKLLJ

Motorbike Insurance

STNK

STCK

Type

Accident fund

Voluntary insurance

Registration certificate

Temporary permit

Mandatory?

✅ Yes

❌ Optional

✅ Yes

❌ Only when waiting for plates

Managed by

Jasa Raharja

Private insurers

Samsat / Police

Samsat / Police

Covers people?

✅ Yes

✅ Yes (depends on policy)

❌ No

❌ No

Covers vehicle?

❌ No

✅ Yes (theft, accident, fire)

❌ No

❌ No

Covers theft?

❌ No

✅ Yes

❌ No

❌ No

Function

Social protection for accident victims

Real protection for your bike & liability

Legal proof of registration

Legal permit during waiting period

Renewal

Yearly (with tax)

Yearly

Yearly + 5 years

1 month (extendable)




Expat in Indonesia filling out documents for STNK renewal at Samsat office, preparing motorbike tax and SWDKLLJ payment.

5. Why Expats Should Care

Here’s what every foreign rider should keep in mind:

  • Pay Your Motorbike Tax + SWDKLLJ

    Mandatory every year. Without this, you cannot renew your STNK.

  • Keep Your STNK Valid

    This is the legal proof that your motorbike is registered. Riding without it can lead to fines or even confiscation.

  • Get Proper Motorbike Insurance

    SWDKLLJ only covers people, not your bike. With BPI, you can get coverage for theft, accidents, and third-party liability.

  • Have a Valid Driver’s License

    You need either an Indonesian SIM C (motorbike license) or a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).

  • Wear a Helmet

    It’s required by law and will protect you in case of an accident. Police often check for helmets, and fines apply if you don’t wear one.

  • Respect Traffic Rules

    Stop at red lights.

    Don’t drive against the flow of traffic.

    Use indicators and ride responsibly.

  • Don’t Drink and Drive

    Riding under the influence of alcohol is illegal and extremely dangerous.

    Insurance companies can reject claims if alcohol is involved in the accident.

  • Respect Indonesian Law and Culture

    Riding in Indonesia is not just about convenience; it’s about responsibility and respect. Following the rules ensures your safety and avoids unnecessary legal problems.


Conclusion: Motorbike Insurance in Indonesia is The Only Real Protection

At Be Protected Indonesia, we believe the smart choice is to not rely on what people say on the street (“just paying tax is enough”) but to make sure you are truly covered. We help expats and locals secure the right motorbike insurance for complete peace of mind.

Don’t wait until an accident or theft happens. Get the protection you deserve and ride with confidence in Indonesia.




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