Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?
You can drive if you want to but it is not needed. In fact, most locals choose not to because of the major traffic jams that occur on a daily basis. Traffic jams here can be extremely severe. Many expatriates prefer to employ a driver rather than attempting to drive in the crowded streets so you may want to look into that option. You can expect to pay anywhere between US$100 to US$200 a month for a driver, depending on their experience. If you need your driver to work until late at night and/or on Sundays, you will have to pay them overtime. To find a reliable and affordable driver, contact the Jakarta Drivers’ Club, which acts as a recruitment agency.
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How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?
To legally drive, you must obtain an Indonesia driver’s license, a SIM (Surat Izin Mengemudi) or hold an International Driver's License. To get an Indonesia license, you do not need to take a test; all you need to do is show up at the Police Department and show your KITAS and home country-driving license.

The best time to apply for a driver's license is early in the morning, Monday through Thursday.
To get a driver's license in Jakarta:
Go to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which is responsible for issuing driver's _ licenses for residents of Jakarta, Tangerang, Depok and Bekasi.

You will need to bring:

  • Original passport
  • Original KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) card
  • Valid Indonesian driver's license, foreign driver's license or international driver's license (as applicable)
  • Photocopies of the identity and valid visa pages in your passport
  • Photocopy of your KITAS card
  • Photocopy of your current driver's license

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What side of the road do people drive on?
Similar to the United Kingdom, people drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you are not familiar with this, take your time and be extra cautious.
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Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.
Public transportation in Jakarta is not always convenient, but it will get you from point A to point B.
Taxis are the safest way to travel around Jakarta and are easily found at hotels and other convenient locations. Other popular ways to get around the city are by bus, train, mini buses (angkutan kota), motorcycle (ojek) or some traditional vehicles (becak, andong, bajaj, and helicak), which are expanded upon below.

Becak: If you like to ride in a convertible, you will love to travel by becak. It can only fit two people at a time, but you just sit back while the driver sits behind you and pedals fast. Because you sit in front, you can feel the wind softly touch your face and when it is hot out, it sometimes cools you off. You will find the becak in small towns more so than in the cities because it is safer to travel where the roads are not too busy, making it easier for the driver to zoom around with ease.

Andong: If you like horses, you will really enjoy the andong. It is similar to the Cinderella carriage where the driver sits in front to control the horse. It can fit up to five or six people; passengers sit facing each other. You can look out the windows located on the sides to enjoy the pretty scenery.
Because it has a roof, you can travel by andong in any type of weather.

Bajaj: The bajaj is a three-wheeled vehicle and is the most famous traditional type of transportation in
Indonesia. It is very fast, with one wheel located in the front and the other two located in the rear. The driver sits up front and the engine is right under his seat. Some people think it is too noisy, but it is very fast and will get you wherever you need to go in a jiffy!

Helicak: This is a combination of the becak, bajaj and a motorcycle. Like the becak, it doesn’t have a roof, it only has three wheels like the bajaj and the driver sits on the left side up front and drives the motorcycle, which pulls you along. It is a fun way to get around and many people really enjoy this best!
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Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.
Yes, although this is possible via bus systems and trains, most expats and locals prefer to use rental cars.
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In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?
Become acquainted with local roads and freeways as well as the local traffic rules. Always follow these traffic rules and always drive with the flow of traffic. For more information, contact your local consulate or embassy or contact Crown Jakarta.
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Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?
You can purchase these at any public transportation station or you can pay in cash when getting on. However, do note that most drivers do not carry a lot of change, so it is wise to have the exact amount.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.