Top 5 Things Tourists Need to Know for Riding a Motorbike in Cambodia
Yamaha WR155 on Koh Kong’s white sand beach
Exploring Cambodia by motorbike is one of the most rewarding ways to experience its landscapes, from ancient temples to remote villages or beaches. However, many travellers are uncertain about the legal and logistical requirements surrounding motorbike use. Below are the most frequently asked questions by tourists, along with detailed answers to help you plan with confidence.
1. Do I Need a License to Ride a Motorbike in Cambodia?
Motorbike licensing in Cambodia depends on the engine size.
Under 125cc: A license is not legally required for Cambodian citizens or foreign visitors. Many tourists rent scooters in this category with no issues.
125cc and above: You must hold a valid motorcycle license, either from Cambodia or your home country, and ideally carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
IDP 1949 sample
It is important to note that Cambodia recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP, rather than the more commonly issued 1968 version. Ensure that your IDP aligns with the correct convention. While some countries issue both types, others only issue the 1968 version, which may not be accepted in Cambodia.
Even if you are riding a motorbike under 125cc, your insurance provider may still require a licence to validate any claims. In the event of an accident, a lack of proper licensing can result in full personal liability for medical and legal costs.
Many foreign travellers, especially in Thailand and sometimes in Cambodia, suffer serious motorbike accidents and then discover their insurance does not cover it. As a result, families often turn to GoFundMe to cover urgent medical expenses. Make sure you are covered!
2. Is it Legal for Foreigners to Rent and Ride Motorbikes in Cambodia?
Yes, it is legal for foreigners to rent and operate motorbikes in Cambodia. Most rental agencies in cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville will rent scooters under 125cc without asking for a license. However, it shouldn't come as a surprise that they don't provide third-party liability insurance for their fleet. Renting a motorbike in Cambodia doesn't guarantee legal permission to operate it.
Cambodian traffic police occasionally stop foreign riders. In the event of a serious accident, being a foreigner operating a Cambodian-plate motorbike can lead to severe complications, with the risk of being held responsible even when not at fault. Read more about the Cambodian police here
3. Is It Safe to Ride a Motorbike in Cambodia?
Riding a motorbike in Cambodia can be safe for experienced drivers with strong 360-degree awareness. That said, there are several risks to be reminded of:
Road conditions can be poor, especially during the rainy season.
Due to limited enforcement of traffic laws and the fact that many local riders are unlicensed, driving behaviour in Cambodia can be unpredictable. Vehicles may approach from the right without checking, merge into your lane abruptly, or cross directly in front of you. Luckily, most traffic moves at a relatively slow pace. Once you understand the natural rhythm of Cambodian traffic, it tends to flow surprisingly well.
Medical services in rural areas are often limited, so it is important to exercise extra caution even when traffic appears light.
Wearing a helmet, avoiding nighttime travel, and practising defensive driving are strongly recommended for all riders. Road rage is uncommon, especially in the countryside or in quiet provinces, where locals often respond with a smile even after making a driving mistake.
For more insights on safety in Cambodia, see: Is Cambodia Safe for Travellers and Foreign Riders?
4. Do I Need Insurance to Ride in Cambodia?
Travel insurance that includes motorbike coverage is highly recommended. Most policies will only be valid if you have the appropriate licensing, which includes both a valid motorcycle license and a 1949-compliant IDP. Always check your policy carefully, as exclusions are common, especially for larger engine sizes or off-road travel.
If you do not meet the documentation requirements, your insurer may refuse coverage for any injuries or damages. This could lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident. Always wear a helmet, along with long sleeves and pants or proper riding gear, to protect yourself in case of an accident.
5. Can I Cross Borders Into or Out of Cambodia by Motorbike?
Crossing into or out of Cambodia by motorbike is possible, but requirements vary significantly depending on the neighbouring country. Preparation is essential.
Thailand and Cambodia
Crossing between Thailand and Cambodia by motorbike is generally allowed, but formalities have increased in recent years. These include the now-required Foreign Vehicle Permit (FVP) when entering Thailand and the Digital Registration Process (TDAC). Online registration of your motorbike with Thai customs is typically required. You must carry both original and photocopied versions of all key documents, including your passport, visa, driver’s license, and proof of motorbike ownership.
Learn more about the process of crossing into Thailand here: Foreign Vehicle Permit (FVP), Border Crossing, step by step and Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Thai authorities have increased enforcement, so thorough documentation is essential. We recommend reading each of the articles linked above.
Update June 2025: It may be best to wait until current political tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border ease. If crossing the border is not recommended during this time, rest assured that Cambodia remains safe for travellers. For more information, watch TravelWithChris' video confirming the safety of travel within Cambodia during the ongoing border tensions.Vietnam to Cambodia
Crossing into Vietnam is significantly more difficult than entering its neighbours. Vietnam enforces strict regulations for foreign vehicles, and border officials will deny entry to travellers who lack the required pre-arranged permissions.
In contrast, entering Cambodia from Vietnam is a much simpler process. This has led to the common practice of travellers purchasing Vietnamese-plated motorbikes to tour both Cambodia and Laos.
However, it is important to be aware of ongoing discussions regarding potential new regulations in Cambodia. These discussions suggest that rules may change to prohibit foreigners on tourist visas from legally operating Vietnamese-registered motorbikes within the country. While not yet a universally enforced law, this remains a legal grey area, and prospective riders should monitor the situation closely.
Read more about that process here: Vietnam Border Crossing
Laos to Cambodia
The Mekong River crossing at Dong Kralor (Cambodia) and Voeung Kam (Laos) is technically possible for overlanders, but it has a long-standing reputation for highly inconsistent procedures. Travellers' reports vary dramatically; some riders are allowed to cross without major issues, while others are turned away, even when possessing what they believe to be complete documentation.
The inconsistency appears to stem from a requirement for a special permission letter, which is not part of the standard visa or customs process. This pre-approval is sometimes obtainable at the border through negotiation and unofficial fees, but this is a high-risk strategy with no guarantee of success.
The more reliable method is to secure this permission in advance. However, contacting the correct government department or authorised official directly is often difficult for independent travellers. In practice, this is typically handled by engaging a local logistics agent or "fixer" who navigates the bureaucracy to obtain the necessary approvals on your behalf. Therefore, anyone planning to use the Dong Kralor/Voeung Kam checkpoint should treat it as a high-risk crossing that requires significant planning or professional assistance to ensure entry. You can gather info or ask questions about these topics in the Mototom Facebook Group.
Is it Worth Riding in Cambodia?
Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most accessible countries for motorbike travel. Renting is especially easy for scooters under 125cc, which are popular on the islands, along the coast, and in Siem Reap for exploring the Angkorian temples. For more adventurous riders, Cambodia is a hidden gem, offering rewarding off-road routes in areas like Chi Phat, the trails of Osoam, Ratanakiri, and remote coastal beaches.
Road 55 to Phnom 1500
Renting is straightforward and affordable, with options ranging from $6 to $9 per day for scooters and underbone motorbikes to new big models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, CFMoto MT450 or KTM 890 Adventure. It is true that many rental shops are lax and may not ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP) or proof of insurance. However, travellers must not mistake this convenience for legal compliance. Relying on lax enforcement is a significant risk; in the event of an accident, riding without a valid license and proper insurance can lead to severe legal and financial consequences, as your travel insurance will likely be void.
While police are often considered foreigner-friendly and may primarily stop riders for clear infractions, such as not wearing a helmet or ignoring traffic laws, proper documentation remains essential. Valid licensing and insurance are non-negotiable for border crossings and are your most critical assets in an emergency.
With the right preparation and a responsible approach to these legal requirements, exploring Cambodia by motorbike can be a safe and truly unforgettable adventure.
Join us, post your questions or look for these topics in the MOTOTOM FACEBOOK GROUP.
Please contact us if you have updates to share or if any details are inaccurate. We write these articles to help the riders’ community; it takes time, and we need the community's help to improve.
