Short answer: Yes, a lay Jain can undertake the 12 lay vows even if you have no local community or acharya, but it's best to learn them correctly and ideally get guidance from a qualified teacher when possible.

What this means in practice

• The 12 lay vows are designed for householders and can be adopted by a devout layperson according to their capacity and circumstances. They include the five Anuvratas (the main small vows), the three Guṇa-vratas (meritorious vows), and the four Śikṣā-vratas (disciplinary/training vows). You observe them in thought, speech, and action, and you reflect on any minor transgressions (Atichāras) during Pratikraman. This is the standard framework for lay conduct in Jainism. ( jainqq.org)
• If you have no local Jain community or teacher, you can begin by studying reliable Jain explanations of the 12 vows and then adopt them gradually, with sincere intent to progress toward the higher Mahāvratas over time. The important part is sincere resolve, proper understanding, and ongoing reflection. ( jainpedia.org)

Practical note about guidance

• Traditionally, formal adoption is supported by proper instruction (often from a teacher or community). If you’re without a teacher, you can still begin with the five Anuvratas and the basic structure, and complement your practice with personal study and regular Pratikraman to review progress and address any missteps. Different Jain traditions may describe the same vows with slightly different names or emphasis, but the underlying framework is recognized in both major sects. ( jainfoundation.in)

You can read more here about the 12 lay vows and their components: