Car Hire at Nerang Train Station

UK photocard licences are accepted in Queensland, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. The IDP translates your licence details into 10 languages and is required by some rental companies and insurance providers. Your UK licence must be current and valid. Drivers under 25 will incur a young driver surcharge of approximately AUD $20–$35 per day.

Yes, while both countries drive on the left, Australian rental cars are right-hand drive (RHD) with the steering wheel on the right — identical to the UK, so the driving position feels familiar. However, indicators and wipers are sometimes swapped, so take a moment to locate them before setting off. Queensland roads have frequent roundabouts; give way to the right unless signs indicate otherwise.

The Pacific Motorway (M1) and several Gold Coast tunnels use electronic tolling only — no cash gates. Hire an e-tag from your rental company (typically AUD $3–$5 per day) or arrange a pass in advance. Running a toll without payment incurs a AUD $20 admin fee plus the toll cost, added to your hire statement.

Summer (Dec–Feb) brings sudden, intense thunderstorms and flash flooding on low-lying roads — avoid driving through floodwater. Bushfires can close roads in dry months. Winter is generally mild (15–22°C) with clear roads. Kangaroos are most active at dawn and dusk, particularly on rural roads heading inland from Nerang; a collision can cause serious damage and void your hire agreement's damage waiver if the vehicle is found to have been driven inappropriately.

Most Australian rental companies charge a young driver surcharge of AUD $20–$35 per day for drivers aged 21–24. Drivers under 21 are generally not permitted to hire vehicles. Some companies offer reduced rates for drivers aged 25+, so always confirm the exact surcharge before booking. Note that excess reduction insurance often has the same age restrictions.

Traffic fines detected by cameras (speeding, red-light) are sent to the hire company's registered address. The company will forward the fine to you and may charge an AUD $30–$50 admin fee. Fines detected by police may be issued directly on the spot. Unpaid fines can be registered with interstate debt recovery, so address them promptly.