This guide provides answers to all your queries along with useful tips for a hassle-free car rental experience in Australia. Use the information within to plan your journey confidently and make the most of your road trip adventure.
Yes, Italian travelers can drive in Australia with a valid Italian licence and the correct supporting documents. Age limits and young driver surcharges may apply depending on the rental company.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid physical passport at the rental counter.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original Italian driving licence
• Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and JCB may be accepted depending on the specific offer. Some offers also accept Visa or MasterCard debit cards for deposits.
Age requirements:
Depending on car group and supplier, the minimum age ranges from 18–25 and the maximum from 70–100. Common standard ranges include 21–75, 21–80, 21–85 and 25–80. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: 21–25 years from about US$ 6.65–18.30 per day, or 18–20 years from about US$ 5.99 per day. Some suppliers cap the young driver fee for the rental (e.g. about US$ 76.87 maximum).
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Italian travelers exploring Australia.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
696Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
Locations:
670Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for a reliable and diverse fleet
Thrifty
Locations:
1578Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
SIXT
Locations:
518Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and affordability
Avis
Locations:
901Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking reliability and variety
Apex
Locations:
10Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals
BARGAIN
Locations:
61Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers looking for value
East Coast Car Rentals
Locations:
64Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
Everything Fleet
Locations:
19Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
ACE Rental Cars
Locations:
61Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and familiesChoosing 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 journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Australia
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Italian drivers prefer automatic for Australian road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Italian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Sydney, Melbourne, BrisbaneMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Great Ocean Road, Outback AdventuresConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Gold Coast, Cairns, Tasmania
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Australia is a country of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife, making it a favorite destination for travelers. From the bustling streets of Sydney to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, car rentals offer the flexibility to explore the vast and diverse regions of this incredible country.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Australia, but for peace of mind on a long road trip, extra coverage is strongly recommended. Insurance rules vary by region, and what's included in your rental price may be minimal. Choosing the right protection can save you from high out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident or theft.
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Australia. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Smart planning and informed choices can help Italian travelers save significantly when renting a car in Australia. Use these practical tips to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Australia.
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.
Italian and Australian traffic laws differ in several aspects including speed limits, road signage, and enforcement practices. This guide highlights these differences to help Italian travelers adapt to driving in Australia.
Driving Side
Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Speed Limits
Speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour (e.g., 50 km/h in urban areas).
Speed limits are also in kilometers per hour but differ in range (e.g., 50-70 km/h in urban areas).
Roundabouts
Give way to vehicles already in the roundabout.
Yield to vehicles entering from the right.
Alcohol Limits
Strict 0.05% BAC limit for drivers.
0.05% BAC limit, but enforcement varies.
Mobile Phone Usage
Use of hands-free devices only.
Hands-free allowed, handheld use restricted.
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Common questions for travelers from Italy renting a car in Australia
