Sign In
24/7
App

Rent a Car in Perth, Australia for Flexible, Great-Value Travel

Compare competitive rates, choose the right pickup spot (PER airport or downtown), and use this practical guide to avoid hidden fees and drive confidently around Western Australia.

Updated Traveler Guide
Perth Car Rental Guide: Where to Pick Up and How to Save
Renting a car in Perth is one of the easiest ways to explore beyond the CBD—think Fremantle, Swan Valley wineries, beaches, and longer road trips down to Margaret River or up the coast. Roads are generally well maintained and signage is clear, but remember Australia drives on the left and many rentals include a high excess (deductible) unless you add cover. For the best value, compare total price (base rate + taxes + location surcharges + extras) and pick a location that matches your itinerary: the airport for immediate mobility after landing, or downtown if you’ll spend your first day(s) in the city using transit. Fuel policies are often “full-to-full,” and child seats, additional drivers, and young-driver fees can raise the final cost—confirm these before you book.
Alamo
Avis
Dollar
Thrifty
Budget
Europcar
+ more
Perth Airport (PER) – Car Rental Center (T1/T2/T3/T4 Access)
Perth Airport is the main gateway and the most popular place to pick up a rental car. Major brands operate on-airport or via short shuttle/walk access depending on terminal and provider. Pros: longest opening hours, widest vehicle choice (including SUVs), easy same-day pickup after landing, and convenient one-way options. Cons: airport surcharges can make it pricier than city locations, queues can be longer at peak times, and parking/traffic around terminals can add stress. Tip: confirm which terminal you land in and whether your provider is in-terminal, in the airport rental precinct, or requires a shuttle so you can budget time.
Perth CBD (Central Business District) – City Pickup
Downtown branches around the CBD are ideal if you’re staying centrally and don’t need a car immediately. Pros: often lower location fees than the airport and easier access if your hotel is nearby. Cons: limited after-hours service, tighter parking, and weekend/holiday hours may be reduced. Good for: travelers who want to explore the city first, then start a road trip later.
West Perth – Near Kings Park Access
A practical option on the western edge of the CBD with relatively easier in/out driving. Pros: less congestion than the core and quicker access to major roads for beach or coastal drives. Cons: fewer providers than the airport and limited vehicle inventory during busy seasons. Good for: travelers who want a calmer pickup while staying near the city.
Loading map...

What do you need to rent a car in Perth?

Renting a car in Perth is quite convenient, but there can be some specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

  • Form of ID: A valid physical national photo ID is required (Malaysia ID in MY, Australia ID in AU).
  • Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical local driving license with no major endorsements. The license must have been held for at least 1–3 years, depending on the specific offer. Original licenses from ASEAN countries (in MY) or from South Korea/other allowed countries (in AU, if in English) can be used directly where specified.

    Notes: In Malaysia: With a valid driver's license issued by any ASEAN country (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam), you can pick up the car with the original license only. Original driver’s licenses from ASEAN countries can be used for vehicle pickups directly; some offers also accept driving licenses from South Korea if the license is in English. Some Australian offers may require local renters to provide recent utility bills (typically within 3 months) if living within 100–150 km of the rental location or when renting for the first time; additional verification and security deposits may apply. Learner, probationary, or restricted licenses are not accepted where stated.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required in all offers that support credit cards (Visa, MasterCard widely accepted; some offers also accept AMEX, JCB, Diners Club, Discover, UnionPay). Some locations additionally accept debit cards for deposits, and a few allow cash, but availability depends on the specific offer. E‑vouchers or printed vouchers are accepted where specified.
  • Age requirements: Across all offers, the minimum age to rent generally ranges from 18–25 and the maximum from 65–99, depending on the supplier and country. Common core bands include 20–75, 21–75/80, 23–70/80, and 25–75/85. Where young driver surcharges apply, they are typically charged per day for ages 18–22 in Malaysia and 21–24 (or in one case age 25) in Australia and other locations, with fees described in the policy as, for example, “$7.68 per day” (MYR‑based) or in AUD/USD equivalents per day; some offers cap the total young driver fee for the rental. For older drivers, certain offers apply an additional fee for ages 76–79, with acceptance at age 80 subject to confirmation. Exact applicable age band and fee are determined by the specific product chosen.
  • Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving license with no major endorsements. The license must have been held for at least 1–3 years, depending on the offer. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is a translation only; photocopies or scans are not accepted)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI‑certified translation (for rentals in Australia)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version, with English translation on the back where required)
    • Original Driver's License in Latin/Roman alphabet (e.g., English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc.) without IDP
    • Thailand Driving License
    • Original Philippine Driving License
    • Hong Kong Driving License in China
    or
    • Original ASEAN country driving licence (for Malaysia and some AU offers, where specified) used directly if in English.

    Notes: ASEAN licenses may be accepted directly in Malaysia; in some Australian offers, South Korean and ASEAN licenses are accepted directly if in English. Driver's licenses printed in a non‑Roman alphabet (such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic, etc.) must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Dealer translations are not allowed for rentals in Australia. Some offers specify that probational/learner licenses are not accepted.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport is required.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required wherever credit cards are listed (Visa and MasterCard in all such offers; some also accept AMEX, JCB, Diners Club, Discover, UnionPay). Certain offers also allow debit cards (often Visa/MasterCard and sometimes UnionPay) for the deposit, and a few accept cash. E‑vouchers or printed vouchers are accepted where indicated.
  • Age requirements: Across all offers, the minimum age to rent generally ranges from 18–25 and the maximum from 65–99, depending on the supplier and country. Common core bands include 20–75, 21–75/80, 23–70/80, and 25–75/85. Where young driver surcharges apply, they are typically charged per day for ages 18–22 in Malaysia and 21–24 (or in one case age 25) in Australia and other locations, with fees described in the policy as, for example, “$7.68 per day” (MYR‑based) or in AUD/USD equivalents per day; some offers cap the total young driver fee for the rental. For older drivers, certain offers apply an additional fee for ages 76–79, with acceptance at age 80 subject to confirmation. Exact applicable age band and fee are determined by the specific product chosen.
requirementsrequirements

Best Car Rentals for Exploring Perth and Beyond

From Swan Valley wineries to Margaret River's stunning coastline, find your perfect ride for an unforgettable Australian road trip adventure.

By Trip Type
Popular Makes

Wine Country & Coastal Touring

SUV

Adventure-Ready & Spacious
5
3
Auto

Perth's wine regions and coastal roads demand versatility. An SUV handles Swan Valley's rolling hills and Margaret River's winding routes with ease. Enjoy higher visibility for spotting kangaroos along roadside rest stops. Perfect for carrying cooler bags, surfboards, and luggage for extended trips. Automatic transmission ensures stress-free driving on unfamiliar Australian roads.

Sunny Beaches & City Sights

Convertible

Open-Air Perth Experience
4
2
Auto

Perth boasts over 300 sunshine days per year, making a convertible ideal for exploring Cottesloe and Scarborough beaches. Feel the ocean breeze as you cruise along the Indian Ocean coastal drive. Easy parking in compact Fremantle streets adds practicality. Premium sound system complements your playlist while cruising Sunset Coast.

Long Distance & Outback

Premium

Comfort for the Open Road
5
3
Auto

For the classic Australian road trip to Wave Rock or the Outback, premium sedans deliver refined comfort across thousands of kilometers. Climate control combats temperatures ranging from mild winters to scorching summers. Generous boot space accommodates camping gear and supplies. Australia-wide fuel efficiency keeps your journey budget-friendly on remote highways.

Choose Your Ride

Find the perfect vehicle for your trip. Compare options below.

Perth Airport (PER)
Downtown Perth

Best for Fast Getaways and Late Arrivals

Airport pickup is convenient when you want to hit the road right after landing. PER typically offers the broadest fleet, longer operating hours, and easier one-way availability. While airport fees can raise the total, you can offset this by booking early, choosing a compact car, and reviewing add-ons (extra driver, GPS, child seats) before checkout.

Perth (PER) Car Rental Reviews from Real Travelers

Browse honest ratings and feedback on car hire services at Perth Airport, helping you pick a reliable rental with confidence.

Rental companyRatingAvg. Daily RatePickup Method/DistanceSecurity depositAccepts Debit CardsKey Advantages
Simba car hireBest Overall
4.5
680+ reviews
$34Free shuttle bus
$356
  • Free airport shuttle service
  • Friendly and professional staff
  • Great value for money
East coast car rentalsBest Overall
4.5
2600+ reviews
$37Free shuttle bus
$712
  • Friendly professional staff consistently praised
  • Best value pricing with no hidden fees
  • Convenient shuttle service and easy pickup
SixtBest Overall
4.5
10.5K+ reviews
$1179.2 mi
$214 - $712
  • Luxury BMW Mercedes vehicles
  • Transparent pricing no hidden fees
  • Quick pickup and return process
BargainBest Overall
4.3
52,000+ reviews
$366.4 mi
$356 - $712
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Great value for money
  • Easy pickup and drop off
YESAWAY
3.6
$51Call for pick-up-
  • Wide car selection
  • Great value rates
  • Convenient pick-up locations
Ace rental cars
3.5
1,100+ reviews
$575.7 miLow deposit
  • Friendly staff, excellent service
  • Great value for money
  • Clean vehicles, easy pickup
ApexBudget Friendly
3.5
120+ reviews
$36Free shuttle bus
$712
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Easy airport pickup and drop-off
  • Clean and well-maintained vehicles
Everything fleet
3.2
6 reviews
$31Free shuttle bus
$356
  • Excellent pickup and dropoff service
  • Clean shuttle bus and great staff
  • Car was as good as new
Keddy by europcar
3.0
3 reviews
$420.8 mi
$356
  • Competitive pricing options
  • Straightforward pickup process
  • Vehicle condition as expected
Hertz
2.9
17000+ reviews
$650.5 mi
$620 - $880
  • Professional and Friendly Staff
  • Smooth and Easy Rental Process
  • Good Value for Money

*Rating and review data are sourced from Trustpilot. Policy details may vary by location and vehicle type. Please confirm at the time of booking.

Data source: QEEQ Car Rental
Last updated: Jun. 13 2026
Essential Rental Hub
Everything you need to know before you drive off. Select a topic to get the full brakdown.
Post Rental Car Accident Guide in Australia
This guide provides essential steps to follow after a rental car accident in Australia, including immediate actions, understanding liability, and official reporting procedures.
View details
Fuelling a Rental Car in Australia: A Beginner's Guide
Learn how to fuel your rental car in Australia with this easy guide. Understand fuel types, check your rental agreement, and follow the fuelling process step-by-step for a smooth journey.
View details
Avoid Hidden Car Rental Fees in Perth with One Simple All Inclusive Strategy
Discover how to avoid hidden car rental fees in Perth from airport surcharges and insurance upsells to toll charges, fuel markups and cleaning costs. Learn the difference between bait rates and all inclusive packages, use a practical checklist on insurance, documentation, fuel policies, contracts and toll planning, and see how transparent platforms like QEEQ help ensure the price you see is the price you pay for a stress free Western Australia road trip.
View details
Perth Car Rental Insurance: Avoid a ?,000 Road-Trip Nightmare
A concise, actionable guide to car rental insurance in Perth and Western Australia. Learn why standard cover often carries huge excesses (?k–?.8k AUD), how wildlife, towing and unsealed-road rules create hidden liabilities, and how to choose between rental-company zero-excess cover or lower-cost third-party excess reimbursement. Includes step-by-step booking, pick-up, driving and claims tips to avoid surprise bills and protect your dream road trip.
View details

Platform Insights

Car Rental Expert Advice

By QEEQ Platform Expert Team

Expertise Metrics

Platform Recognition

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023&2024

Booking Volume

Review Quality

10,000+ verified 5-star reviews

Market Experience

Data Authority

Expertise Verification

QEEQ data verified against local official data sources

Key Expert Insights

Platform Analysis

"Perth Airport dominates with 60-65% market share; city center captures 22-27%. Avis/Budget/Hertz/Europcar hold combined 55% with strongest presence at airport locations due to tourist demand."

Booking Patterns

"Economy cars lead at 38-42% vs SUV/4x4 at 35-40%. Peak season (Dec-Feb) sees 35-45% higher bookings. Average rental duration is 6-8 days with 2-3 weeks advance booking typical."

Customer Pain Points

"41% of first-time renters in WA report confusion over insurance coverage options, the most common pain point cited in consumer surveys."

Data Sources

  • QEEQ internal booking databse
  • Perth Airport Corporation - Ground Transport Report
  • Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics
  • Tourism Western Australia - Visitor Statistics
  • Tourism WA - Travel Patterns Report
  • Australian Bureau of Statistics - Tourism Transport
  • RAC Western Australia - Road Trip Survey
  • Choice Australia - Car Rental Survey
  • Australian Competition and Consumer Commission - Car Rental Complaints
  • Alpha Car Hire Australia - Hidden Fees Guide

Road Trips

One-way rental routes starting from Perth

Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Perth

Drive Through Perth: Australia's Sunburst Paradise Awaits

Discover the essential driving and travel guide to Perth, Western Australia - from left-hand road rules to fuel costs and car rentals

LANGUAGES

English

CURRENCY

AUD

DRIVE ON

Left-hand side

COUNTRY CODE

+61

SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN

50 km/h

SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN

100-110 km/h

ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC

0.05%

AVERAGE GAS PRICE

$1.17/L

LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE

$1.05/L - $1.32/L

Perth Car Rental & Driving Guide

Essential tips for US drivers renting cars and exploring Western Australia

Can I drive in Perth with my US driver's license, or do I need an International Driving Permit?
Your US driver's license is valid in Australia, but you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car—most agencies won't hand over the keys without it. Get your IDP before departure at AAA offices ($20) or online. The IDP is a translation, not a replacement; carry both documents. Police fines for driving without one start at AUD $100.
I drive on the right in the US—will switching to left-hand traffic in Perth be dangerous?
Yes, it's a serious adjustment. Australia has right-hand-drive vehicles and left-lane traffic, the opposite of the US. Roundabouts (traffic circles) are everywhere, and you must give way to the left. US tourists cause a disproportionate number of crashes in WA's first week. Book a pickup from the airport on a quieter day, and practice in a low-traffic area before hitting highways. Budget extra time—driving will feel 50% slower mentally.
How do I pay for toll roads in Perth? Is there a cash option?
Perth's toll roads (NorthLink, Graham Farmer Freeway) require an e-toll tag—there's no cash option. Rental agencies charge AUD $30-$50 for a prepaid e-tag plus usage fees (tolls cost 10-30% more). If you skip the tag and use a toll road, expect an invoice sent to your rental car address within weeks, plus a AUD $40 admin fee. Don't risk it: add the e-tag package at pickup.
What wildlife hazards should I expect driving around Perth?
Kangaroo strikes kill or injure hundreds of drivers annually in WA, especially at dusk and night between April-August (breeding season). Swipe a kangaroo at 80 km/h and you're looking at AUD $6,000+ in bumper damage. Speed limits drop to 80 km/h on regional roads specifically for this reason. If you see a 'Roads wetted for dust' sign, that means sprinklers are active because road trains (massive trucks) kicked up dust—slow down immediately.
Is it safe to drive in Perth's summer heat? What precautions are critical?
Perth summers hit 40°C (104°F) regularly, and remote outback routes can exceed 45°C. Rental air conditioning is essential, not optional. Always carry 4+ liters of water per person, a charged phone, and inform someone of your route. Tire blowouts are common—check tire pressure before long drives and pull over every 2 hours. If your car overheats, turn off the engine immediately and wait 15 minutes before opening the hood. Road trains on the Nullarbor Plain don't stop for broken-down vehicles.
What's the fuel situation like? Do I need to plan ahead outside Perth?
Unleaded petrol (95-98RON) is standard. Perth to Exmouth is 1,270 km with fuel only at Exmouth and Carnarvon—gap of 400+ km between stations. Most rental cars run on petrol; diesel is rare. Fill up whenever you drop below half tank on outback routes. Perth suburbs have 24-hour servo stations, but rural towns may close by 8 PM. Credit card pay-at-pump works at most stations, but carry AUD $20 cash for remote areas.

QEEQ Platform Awards

Recognized globally for excellence in car rental booking services and customer satisfaction.

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2024

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2024

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022

Best Business Partner Award of ABG 2023 & 2024

Best Business Partner Award of ABG 2023 & 2024

Business Excellence Awards 2024

Business Excellence Awards 2024

The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category

The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category

The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road

The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road

Recommended by our customers

Trusted by customers worldwide and we're always working to improve.

Trustpilot