Renting a Scooter in Cambodia – Helpful Tips & Information

A scooter is one of the most essential means of transportation for getting around Cambodia’s cities. Apart from the capital, we traveled almost exclusively by scooter.
In this post, we’d like to share our experiences, key information, and helpful tips on renting a scooter in Cambodia, so your scooter tour can run smoothly as well.

1. DRIVER'S LICENSE & REQUIREMENTS IN CAMBODIA

In Cambodia, there is no legal requirement to hold a driver's license for riding motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cc – at least not for Cambodian citizens.
However, the situation can vary for foreigners, as many of them may need either an international driver's license or a Cambodian driver's permit to legally ride on the roads.

Although the law does not explicitly mandate a license for motorcycles up to 125cc, traffic checks can vary depending on the region and situation.
In many cases, foreigners may be asked to present a valid driver's license, even if it is not strictly required.
Therefore, it is always recommended to carry an international license or a local driver's permit to avoid any issues with the authorities.

In summary: In Cambodia, you don't need a driver's license for motorcycles up to 125cc, but especially as a foreigner, it's advisable to have a valid license to avoid complications during traffic checks.

2. WHERE CAN YOU RENT A SCOOTER?

In large cities like Siem Reap or Kampot, you can rent a scooter either through your accommodation or directly from a local rental shop.
We recommend the latter, as it allows you to check Google reviews on the condition, process, and other aspects of the rental.
Additionally, prices are typically cheaper when renting directly from the provider rather than through your accommodation.

3. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RENT A SCOOTER IN CAMBODIA?

Prices for renting a scooter vary widely depending on the engine power and rental duration. In tourist areas, prices can also be influenced by peak and off-peak seasons.
During our stay, prices ranged from $10 to $15 per day.
For long-term rentals, prices may be slightly lower. Of course, it always depends on whom you rent from and how well you can negotiate.

4. THE DEPOSIT

Almost every scooter rental requires a deposit. Most rental providers will ask for either your passport or a cash deposit.

Since your passport is the most important document during your trip (you can’t leave the country without it), we recommend, if possible, leaving cash as a deposit instead.
In case of any issues at return, you’ll have “only” lost some money rather than having your passport withheld as leverage.
If you rent a scooter from your accommodation, the deposit is often waived, as they already know you.

5. THE RENTAL AGREEMENT & INSURANCE

When renting a scooter, a simple rental agreement is typically used, usually only one or two pages.
‍Key parts of the contract include the driver’s name, rental price, rental duration, mileage, deposit, insurance coverage (usually very limited, so renters often have to cover most damages themselves), and a list of any existing damage.

6. THE SCOOTER CHECK: WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR AT PICKUP

Before setting off on a scooter, you should take a short test ride to check all its functions.

• Check for helmets for both the driver and passenger – helmets are mandatory!
• Inspect the scooter for visible damage and document any with photos and in your rental contract.
• Check the fuel level at pickup so you can return the scooter with the same level.
• Look for a first-aid kit in the helmet compartment.
• Ask for an emergency contact number and make sure you receive the vehicle papers or a copy of them.

Our tip: For navigation, we exclusively used map apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps.
To avoid holding your phone for safety and comfort, we recommend renting a phone holder for the handlebars.

7. HOW & WHERE TO REFUEL THE SCOOTER

In Cambodia, you can refuel at official gas stations or smaller roadside stalls. At roadside stands, fuel is typically sold in old liquor or plastic bottles, and you’ll pour it into the tank yourself.
At a gas station, the attendant will handle the refueling, and you pay directly at the pump.

Good to know: Fuel from roadside vendors is often diluted and of lower quality, meaning it runs out faster and costs more per fill-up than at gas stations.
In remote areas, gas stations can be scarce, so refuel in advance to avoid relying on roadside sellers.

8. GENERAL TIPS FOR RIDING A SCOOTER IN CAMBODIA

• Helmet Requirement: Wearing a helmet is mandatory in Cambodia. Adhere to this rule for your safety.
• Roads: Roads in major cities, towns, and tourist centers are well-developed.
  However, we’ve also encountered terrible road conditions, such as very rocky roads, long gravel stretches, and steep inclines/declines. In these cases, driving is hardly enjoyable.
• Rain: Slow down! Especially when braking or on steep roads, it can get very slippery. You don’t want an accident on vacation.
• Sun Protection: The pleasant breeze while riding can be deceptive. Remember that the sun is still there, even if you don’t feel hot.
  For longer distances, be sure to use sunblock or wear long clothing.
• Securing the Helmet: As the name suggests, you can store your helmet in the helmet compartment after your ride.
  With two helmets, you can secure the second by wedging its strap between the helmet compartment and the seat.
  This way, you can leave the helmets on the scooter without carrying them around.
• Baggage: We always carried a backpack for our valuables, worn by the passenger. This provides extra storage in addition to the helmet compartment.
  If you’re worried about theft at traffic lights, wear the backpack in front.

9. ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES OF RENTING A SCOOTER

ADVANTAGES

• High flexibility and independence
• Quicker travel within cities compared to a car or bus
• Can navigate narrow streets
• Cheaper than a taxi, rental car, or private driver

DISADVANTAGES

• Can be uncomfortable on longer journeys
• Less storage space for luggage
• Higher risk of injury in an accident
• No sun protection if you don’t apply sunscreen or dress appropriately

OUR CONCLUSION

If you already have experience riding a scooter, definitely rent one and enjoy the independence and flexibility it offers.
However, if you don’t have experience, carefully consider whether you want to learn to ride on the sometimes chaotic road conditions.

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable Transfers with 12Go.com
• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• Discover the best accommodations
• The best Travel Guides for Cambodia
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Cambodia

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Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.