Age Restrictions
With some exceptions, you need to be over 21 to hire a car in Australia. Younger drivers can face surcharges and vehicle limits, and older drivers may be asked for a medical certificate.
Is there a minimum age restriction to hire a car?
With some exceptions, you need to be over 21 to hire a car in Australia. If you are between 21 and 25, the rental company at the pick-up branch may ask you to:
- pay a young driver surcharge before it completes the rental agreement
- choose a vehicle category that allows drivers under 25, because some rental companies restrict certain categories to drivers aged 25 or over
- take a particular insurance liability option
If the driver doesn't meet the branch's age requirement, the rental company can refuse the rental agreement and cancel the booking. Its cancellation conditions then apply. Check the age conditions in the Important information on your quote before you book.
Is there a maximum age restriction to hire a car?
Some rental companies may ask drivers over 75 to provide a medical certificate at pick-up stating they are fit to drive. The final decision rests with the branch. Contact the branch before your pick-up day to ask what it needs, if anything.
Next steps
- Driver's licence requirements: which licences rental companies accept and what overseas visitors need
- Types of vehicles: the categories you can choose from if your age limits your options
- Charges at pick-up: where a young driver fee fits with other counter charges
Part of Before You Book in the Car Hire Handbook.