This guide provides practical insights tailored to Australian tourists. It’s aimed at helping you navigate car rentals and driving in Chile with confidence. At the end, you'll find a summary table that boils down key points into an easy-to-reference format to assist you in planning your trip.
Yes, Australian travelers can legally drive in Chile with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
The minimum age to drive is 21 years, and the maximum age is 99 years. Age restrictions may vary by rental company.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore various reputable car rental companies in Chile to find the best fit for your travel needs.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
52Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
34Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
Locations:
212Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking a balance of quality and cost
Hertz
Locations:
77Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Keddy by Europcar
Locations:
72Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Avis
Locations:
93Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Affordable rentals and diverse vehicle options
Hertz
Locations:
18Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
United Rent a Car
Locations:
21Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Chilean Rent A Car
Locations:
24Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local explorations
Flexways
Locations:
9Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentalsChoosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your adventure.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Ideal for urban driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Offer a good mix of space and efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Suitable for longer road journeys
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Best for families or larger groups
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Convenient for city traffic and common in CL
Manual transmission
Usually more economical with better control
Consider your comfort level with driving styles
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Usually included, covers damages to third parties
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Available for protection against vehicle damage
Theft protection
Often included to cover theft-related incidents
Personal insurance
Verify if your travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Available usually up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid offers cost savings but less flexibility
Modification charges
Fees for changing booking details
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for unexpected cancellations
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Recommended for extensive road trips
Limited mileage
Lower base rates, extra charges for exceeding limits
Plan route and detours to estimate mileage requirements
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Economical option, return with a full tank
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for convenience, sometimes pricier
Same-to-Same
Return with the same fuel level as pickup
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Santiago, Valparaíso, Viña del MarMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Patagonia, Atacama DesertConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Easter Island, Lake District
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Chile offers a variety of breathtaking destinations for travelers, ranging from the Atacama Desert in the north to the stunning Patagonian landscapes in the south. Popular cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Puerto Varas are perfect starting points for road trips, allowing visitors to explore the country’s diverse geography and cultural landmarks efficiently.
Traveling from Australia to Chile requires appropriate car rental insurance coverage to ensure compliance with local laws and provide peace of mind. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with the available options to avoid unforeseen costs during your trip.
Provides coverage for damages to the rental car resulting from collisions or theft.
Offers protection against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers damages or injuries caused to third parties during the rental period.
Provides coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Chile. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Discover tips tailored for Australian travelers to make your car rental in Chile cost-effective and hassle-free.
Essential points to consider when renting a car in Chile.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Key differences and similarities in traffic regulations between Australia and Chile for travelers.
Right Turn on Red
Not allowed under any circumstances.
Allowed at red lights after a complete stop unless otherwise indicated.
Speed Limits
Urban roads: 50 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h.
Urban roads: 50 km/h, Highways: 100-110 km/h.
Alcohol Limit
0.03% BAC (strict regulations).
0.05% BAC.
Parking Rules
Parking on sidewalks is prohibited.
Parking rules vary by state but generally allow parking on the street.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices are mandatory while driving.
Similar rule; hands-free use only.
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all passengers.
Mandatory for all passengers as well.
