Car Rental License Requirements: how it works in Australia — first-hand
Short answer
Renting a car in Australia typically requires a valid national driver's license, often with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an English translation. You must provide a foreign-issued credit card to cover security deposits, which usually range from AUD $100 to $1,000 and are pre-authorized upon collection.
From real experience
Car rental in Australia, including Tasmania, is often possible with recently obtained national driver's licenses, even without a separate translation.
The primary requirements are a valid license and a foreign-issued payment card. Rental agencies may inquire about the license issue date but are often flexible.
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When renting a car in Australia: 1. **Driver's License:** Ensure your driver's license is valid and meets the minimum age/experience requirements (often 1 year of driving experience).
Expired foreign licenses are generally not accepted for driving, though they might be used to demonstrate driving history. Licenses with a clear English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) are usually required. 2. **Rental Deposits:** Be prepared for rental car deposits, which can range from AUD $100 to $1,000 or more. These are typically pre-authorized on a credit card and refunded after the vehicle is returned in good condition. Companies like Apex and Europcar are noted for sometimes having no or minimal deposits. Always inquire about deposit policies and the associated refund timelines.
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For car rentals in Australia, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
While Russian driving licenses with translations might be accepted, an IDP is safer. A credit card is typically required for the security deposit. Be aware that the deposit amount may differ from what is advertised on booking aggregators; a deposit of 500 was charged in this case, exceeding the advertised 300.