Australia is one incredible destination - especially when you’ve got a car. Here, the roads can take you from lively cities to untouched natural landscapes, and renting a car with Hertz gives you freedom to explore it your way. But before you book, there are some things worth knowing. That’s why we’ve put together a helpful guide that outlines the essentials to car rental in Australia. 
1. Check If You’re Eligible to Drive
- To rent a car in Australia, you need to keep a few essentials in mind.
- Are you over 21 years old? (With Hertz, renter surcharges apply for drivers under 25. For more details, visit this page.)
You must a valid driver’s licence from your home country. - If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified English translation.
2. Choose the Right Car
Australia is a diverse country, with everything from busy cities to wide open roads. Before booking a car, think about the kind of trip you’re planning to take.- City or Country: What size car would best suit your style of adventure?
- How Many Travellers: Are you travelling solo, as a couple or with family?
- Luggage Space: Are you travelling with large bags, lots of gear, and leaving space for shopping?
- Fuel Economy: How much driving do you plan on doing?
Hertz offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your journey, from zippy compacts to spacious SUVs. Take a look at our options here.
3. Book Early
The earlier you book your rental car, the more choice you’ll have, especially during busy seasons like summer (December to February) or public holiday weekends. Booking online with Hertz Australia means:
- Access to exclusive deals and offers
- The ability to select pick-up/drop-off locations
- Faster service at the counter
4. Pick Up Your Rental Car
At pick-up, make sure to bring:
1. Your driver licence (and IDP if required)
2. A credit card in your name for the security deposit
3. Your passport, especially at airport locations
Staff will explain your rental agreement, fuel policy, and your car’s features before handing over the keys. 
5. Know the Local Road Rules
Every country has its own road rules. Here are some to know when you’re on the road in Australia.
- Always keep to the left-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car. Fines apply for anyone caught not wearing a seat belt.
- Speed limits vary by state and road type, and limits are enforced by police and roadside cameras.
- Driving while using a mobile phone is against the law (unless you’re using your phone hands-free)
- Watch for wildlife in rural and remote areas, especially at dusk.
What’s the legal alcohol limit when driving in Australia?
The legal BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) limit for fully licensed drivers is 0.05% in all states. If your licence is not full or unrestricted, the limit is 0.00%. This applies to both local and overseas drivers. It’s always a good idea to have a designated driver if you plan on consuming any alcohol.
Tip for Visitors: If you’re renting with Hertz using a full licence from your home country, the 0.05% limit usually applies. If you're unsure, check with your rental provider or local road authority.
6. Return the Car Smoothly
Return your car with a full tank (unless you selected a Prepaid Fuel option), and make sure it’s in the same condition you picked it up in. Hertz locations are available at major airports, cities, and regional hubs across Australia, which gives you a range of drop-off options to suit your needs.
If you need to change your drop-off time or location, just contact the Hertz team in advance.
Your Australian Road Trip is One Click Away.
Renting a car is the best way to explore Australia — from the cities, beaches, rainforests, deserts and everything in between. With Hertz, you’ve got a range of vehicle options, drop-off and pick-up locations, plus the expert service to make your road trip as easy as it is unforgettable.
Book your car with Hertz and get ready to see Australia by car!
