Renting a car in the USA from Australia
The short answer
Your Australian license is in English, so the major US rental companies accept it with your passport and you don't need an International Driving Permit for the rental. Bring a credit card in the main driver's name, and expect some companies to ask for proof of your flight home.
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What do I need to bring?
- Your Australian driving license, valid for the whole rental. Bring the physical card, not a digital license.
- Your passport, in the same name.
- A credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit.
- Proof of your return flight: Budget asks renters from outside the US and Canada for it.
Driving in the US as an Australian visitor
- Americans drive on the right, and most rental cars are automatic.
- Speeds and distances are in miles, not kilometres.
- One-way road trips between cities can carry large drop fees; ask before you book.
What catches visitors out?
- A debit card, or a card in someone else's name, for the deposit.
- Young driver fees if anyone driving is under 25.
- Tolls billed weeks later, after you've flown home. See toll fees by company.
- Buying cover twice, or not at all. See cover for visitors.
Planning your trip? Leave your number and we'll check it for your booking.
Questions people ask
Can I rent a car in the USA with an Australian license?
Yes, with your passport. Bring the physical license card.
Do Australians need an International Driving Permit in the USA?
Not for the rental, because Australian licenses are in English.
Are one-way rentals in the USA expensive?
They can be. Drop fees between cities or states can be large, so check the full price before you book.
Related help
- Renting in the US or Canada from abroad
- Foreign licenses and the International Driving Permit
- Paying for a rental car from abroad
- Rental car cover for overseas visitors
- Airport rental counter finder
OneCall Rental is an independent service and is not affiliated with any rental company or travel site.
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