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Rent A Car In Burnie, Australia With Competitive Rates And Clear Pickup Options

Compare airport and downtown locations, understand insurance and fuel policies, and book a rental car in Burnie that fits your Tasmania road trip—without surprises.

Updated for travelers renting in Burnie, Tasmania
Car Rental In Burnie: Where To Pick Up And What To Know
Renting a car in Burnie is one of the easiest ways to explore Tasmania’s northwest coast on your own schedule—ideal for day trips to Stanley (The Nut), Cradle Mountain access routes, coastal drives, and small towns where public transit can be limited. Burnie is compact and straightforward to drive, but inventory can be smaller than in Hobart or Launceston, so booking ahead often improves price and vehicle choice. Expect standard Australian rental requirements (valid license, credit card for deposit, age policies) and pay close attention to fuel rules, after-hours pickup, and coverage options, especially if you plan longer drives on rural roads.
Avis
Dollar
Thrifty
Hertz
Firefly
Burnie Airport (BWT) – Wynyard
Closest airport to Burnie (about a 20–30 minute drive). Airport pickup is typically the most convenient option for arriving travelers, with simpler logistics if you’re continuing straight to the coast or regional attractions. Pros: quickest exit to the highway, easier luggage handling, and streamlined pickup. Cons: fewer counters than big-city airports, limited after-hours options, and availability can sell out in peak periods.
Burnie CBD (Wilson Street / City Center Area)
In-town pickup near the central business district can work well if you arrive by coach, already have accommodations in Burnie, or want to avoid airport surcharges. Pros: convenient if you’re staying central and may find competitive weekday pricing. Cons: shorter business hours, limited weekend staffing, and parking/traffic can be slightly busier than the airport route.
Burnie Port & Waterfront Precinct
Good for travelers staying near the waterfront or arriving via regional connections. Pros: walkable from some hotels and attractions, easy to start scenic coastal routes. Cons: fewer rental desks, inventory may be limited, and one-way returns can require planning.
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What do you need to rent a car in Burnie?

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

  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID must be presented by the main driver (and any additional drivers, if required).
  • Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full, physical Australian driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1–2 years (most offers require at least 1 year; some specific offers require 2 years). Photocopies or scanned copies are not accepted.

    Notes: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification may be required and a refundable security deposit (e.g., around AUD 1,000) may apply. You may also be required to present a utility bill issued within the last 3 months for address verification.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required when a credit card is used. Accepted credit cards may include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and UnionPay, depending on the specific offer. Debit cards (Visa/MasterCard/JCB/AMEX where available) may be accepted for some offers. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for certain rates.
  • Age requirements: Standard driving age ranges from 21 to 80 years for most offers, with some allowing up to 99. Some offers require a minimum age of 25. Where young driver fees apply, drivers aged 21–24 will be charged an additional daily fee, typically described as: AUD 19.84–22.91 per day (sometimes capped, e.g., about AUD 83.33 per rental), or equivalent amounts stated in the offer (e.g., USD 27.50 per day). Exact age limits and fees depend on the specific vehicle and offer.
  • Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full, physical driving licence with no major endorsements, usually held for at least 1 year (some offers may require 2 years). Photocopies or scanned copies are not accepted. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is only a translation; the original licence must also be presented)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI‑certified translation for use in Australia
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version, with English translation provided on the back)
    • Original driving licence printed in Latin/Roman alphabet (e.g., English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc.) without IDP; licences in non‑Roman alphabets (e.g., Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic) must be accompanied by an IDP.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport must be presented by the main driver (and any additional drivers, if required).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required when a credit card is used. Accepted credit cards may include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, and UnionPay, depending on the specific offer. Debit cards (Visa/MasterCard/JCB/AMEX where available) may be accepted for some offers. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for certain rates. For some offers, proof of Collision and Theft Protection and Third Party Liability from your card issuer or insurer may be required in printed form, showing your name/card, coverage details, validity, applicable countries, and vehicle types.
  • Age requirements: Standard driving age ranges from 21 to 80 years for most offers, with some allowing up to 99. Some offers require a minimum age of 25. Where young driver fees apply, drivers aged 21–24 will be charged an additional daily fee, typically described as: AUD 19.84–22.91 per day (sometimes capped, e.g., about AUD 83.33 per rental), or equivalent amounts stated in the offer (e.g., USD 27.50 per day). Exact age limits and fees depend on the specific vehicle and offer.
requirementsrequirements

Best Car Rentals for Exploring Burnie & Beyond

From coastal drives to mountain adventures, find the perfect ride for your Tasmanian road trip departing from Burnie.

By Trip Type
Popular Makes

Coastal Cruising

Convertible

Open-Air Freedom Along Tasmania's Northwest
4
2
Auto

The Burnie coastline offers stunning ocean vistas and charming seaside towns like Stanley and Ulverstone. A convertible lets you soak in the fresh Tasmanian air as you wind along the Bass Strait. Summer months (December to February) provide perfect weather for dropping the top and capturing photos of dramatic coastal cliffs. This area sees fewer tourists than the east coast, making for peaceful scenic drives with plenty of pull-over spots to admire the view.

Mountain Adventure

SUV

Conquer Cradle Mountain Roads with Confidence
5
3
Auto

Cradle Mountain is just two hours from Burnie, but the winding access roads and unpredictable highland weather demand a capable vehicle. An SUV provides the elevated visibility needed for spotting wildlife like wombats and echidnas by the roadside. Tasmania's interior roads can be narrow with sudden fog banks, and an SUV's stability gives you peace of mind on gravel sections. Winter frost can make roads slippery, and the SUV's ground clearance handles occasional rough patches with ease.

City Exploration

Small

Navigate Burnie's Streets Like a Local
5
2
Auto

Burnie's city center has compact streets and convenient parking that a small car handles effortlessly. You'll zip through the CBD to reach the iconic Burnie CBD and Makers' Workshop without hunting for large parking spaces. The small car's fuel efficiency is ideal for multiple short trips to explore nearby towns like Devonport. American visitors often underestimate how handy a compact vehicle is for quick turns and busy roundabouts in Tasmanian towns.

Choose Your Ride

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

Airport Pickup
Downtown Pickup

Pick Up At Burnie Airport (BWT) For The Fastest Start

Airport pickup is ideal if you’re flying in and want to hit the road immediately. It typically offers the smoothest handover for luggage, quicker access to major routes, and straightforward returns. Availability can be limited in Burnie compared with larger airports, so booking early often helps secure better pricing and vehicle types.

Burnie Car Rental: See Why Travelers Rate Us Highly

Don't just take our word for it. Read authentic reviews from real travelers who rented in Burnie and made the most of their Tasmania adventure.

Rental companyRatingAvg. Daily RatePickup Method/DistanceSecurity depositAccepts Debit CardsKey Advantages
Hertz
2.9
17000+ reviews
$162In terminal, Walk to counter
$746 - $1,312
  • Professional and Friendly Staff
  • Smooth and Easy Rental Process
  • Good Value for Money
Dollar
2.1
3300+ reviews
$1320.1 mi from Burnie Downtown
$506 - $1,091
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Quick and efficient service
  • Easy pickup and return process
Thrifty
1.8
3700+ reviews
$6310.3 mi from Burnie Downtown
$393 - $585
  • Insurance Coverage Available
  • Pickup and Drop-off Service
  • Various Vehicle Selection
Avis
1.2
4600+ reviews
$77In terminal, Walk to counterLow deposit
  • Quick and efficient service
  • Friendly professional staff
  • Smooth rental process

*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. 24 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 Australia
This guide reveals common hidden car rental fees in Australia, including insurance excess, location surcharges, and toll fees, ensuring you budget effectively for your 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

"Burnie lacks dedicated airport car rental market data; major pickup points concentrate at Hobart and Launceston airports, with airport locations capturing 65% of tourist rentals due to fly-drive convenience."

Booking Patterns

"Tasmania car rentals peak December-February (summer), with 4WD/SUV demand rising 30% for wilderness routes like Cradle Mountain; average circuit duration is 7-10 days."

Customer Pain Points

"38% of first-time Tasmania renters report confusion over insurance coverage options; left-hand driving unfamiliarity affects 25% of international visitors."

Data Sources

  • QEEQ internal booking databse
  • Burnie City Council
  • Transport Tasmania
  • Burnie City Council Tourism Data
  • Department of State Growth Tasmania
  • CHOICE Car Hire Guide Australia
  • Budget Car Rental Code of Practice
  • Transport Tasmania

Road Trips

One-way rental routes starting from Burnie

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

Discover Burnie BNA - Explore Tasmania's Coastal Gem

Plan your perfect Burnie adventure - from stunning coastal views to Cradle Mountain day trips, find the best car rental deals and essential driving tips for Tasmania's north-west

LANGUAGES

English

CURRENCY

AUD

DRIVE ON

Left-hand side

COUNTRY CODE

+61

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL PRICE

$65 per day

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL LENGTH

3-5 days

SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN

50 km/h

SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN

100 km/h

ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC

0.05% (Strictly Enforced)

AVERAGE GAS PRICE

$1.35/L

LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE

$1.15/L - $1.55/L

Burnie Car Rental Guide

Essential driving tips and car rental FAQs for exploring Burnie and Tasmania's north-west coast

Can I use my US driver's license to drive in Burnie, Tasmania?
Yes, US driver's licenses are accepted in Australia for up to three months. Since both countries speak English, you typically don't need an International Driving Permit (IDP), but carrying one is highly recommended as a backup—it serves as a certified translation and is accepted at all rental agencies without issue.
Do I need to adjust to left-hand traffic? I'm from the US.
Absolutely—Tasmania drives on the LEFT side of the road. This is the biggest adjustment for US drivers. The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle. Take extra caution at intersections, roundabouts (which are common), and when merging. Spend 10-15 minutes in a quiet parking lot before hitting main roads to get comfortable.
What's the real danger of wildlife on Tasmanian roads?
Wildlife strikes are a serious concern, especially at dawn and dusk. Kangaroos and wallabies are most active during these hours and often jump onto roads without warning. Wombats are also common and can cause severe damage due to their size. Drive at reduced speeds on rural roads, use high beams on dark roads, and consider opting for a vehicle with bull bar protection through rental agencies.
Are Tasmania's roads suitable for a road trip? What about mountain roads?
Tasmania's north-west roads range from modern highways to narrow, winding routes. The road to Cradle Mountain (about 1.5 hours from Burnie) features steep inclines, sharp curves, and occasional gravel sections. Coastal roads can be scenic but have limited services. During winter (June-August), some high-altitude roads may require snow chains—check conditions with local visitor centers before departure.
What type of fuel do rental cars use in Burnie, and what's the filling policy?
Standard rental cars run on unleaded petrol (95RON). Diesel vehicles are common for larger SUVs. Most rental agencies operate on a full-to-full policy—receive the car with a full tank and return it full to avoid steep refueling charges (often 2-3x pump price). Fuel prices in Burnie average around AUD $1.80-$2.20 per liter; book rental cars with a full tank when possible.
How much is the young driver surcharge if I'm under 25?
If you're between 21-24 years old, expect to pay an additional AUD $20-$35 per day as a young driver surcharge. Drivers under 21 are generally not permitted to rent vehicles from most agencies. Before booking, verify the specific rental company's age policy, as some specialty or larger vehicles (4WDs, minivans) may have higher age minimums of 25+.

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The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category

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The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road

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