Rent a car in Australia—it’s one of the best ways for international travellers to explore the country’s vast coastlines, rugged outback, and vibrant cities. But if you’re visiting from overseas and planning to drive, you may wonder: “Can I rent a car in Australia with a foreign licence?”
The short answer is yes, you can. However, there are important rules to follow, especially if your licence isn’t in English. In most cases, car rental companies and state road authorities require your licence to be officially translated into English, and not just by anyone. It needs to be NAATI-certified to be legally recognised.
In this blog, we’ll explain the requirements for renting a car in Australia with a foreign driver’s licence, when a translation is needed, and how Immi Translating Service can help ensure you stay safe, legal, and ready to hit the road.
🚘 Can I Rent a Car in Australia with a Foreign Licence?
Yes, you can rent a car in Australia with a foreign licence, but there are specific conditions. Rental companies and local laws generally require that:
-
Your licence is valid and not expired.
-
The licence is written in English OR is accompanied by an official English translation.
-
The licence includes your photo, signature, and date of birth.
-
You are at least 21 years old (some companies may require 25+).
💡 If your driver’s licence is not in English, a NAATI-certified English translation is usually required—especially in states like NSW, VIC, and QLD.
📄 What Kind of Foreign Licences Are Accepted?
Australian rental companies accept most foreign licences if they meet the following criteria:
-
Issued by a recognised overseas authority.
-
Valid in your home country.
-
Translated into English if not originally in English.
Alternatively, some travellers carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). While an IDP is helpful, it’s not always a substitute for a translated licence, especially if you do not carry your original licence with it.
🌍 When Is NAATI-Certified Translation Required?
You will need a NAATI-certified translation of your licence if:
-
Your original licence is in a language other than English (e.g. Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Korean, French, Spanish, Vietnamese, etc.).
-
The rental company requires proof of English translation for insurance and legal reasons.
-
You plan to drive across state borders, and laws differ regarding foreign licences.
❌ Google Translate or self-made translations are not accepted.
✅ Only NAATI-certified translations are legally recognised by Australian rental agencies and government departments.
🛑 What Happens If You Don’t Translate Your Licence?
If you try to rent a car without a proper English translation of your foreign licence, several issues may arise:
-
The rental company may refuse to release the vehicle.
-
Insurance may be voided, leaving you personally liable in case of an accident.
-
You may be fined or penalised if pulled over by police while driving without a valid licence under Australian law.
To avoid stress, delays, and legal trouble, it’s essential to get your licence translated before arriving or renting.
📋 What Does a NAATI-Certified Translation Include?
A NAATI-certified translation of your foreign licence will include:
-
Your full name
-
Date of birth
-
Licence number
-
Licence class/type
-
Validity dates
-
Any driving restrictions
-
NAATI translator stamp and certification statement
This format is universally accepted by all major car rental companies in Australia, as well as by government authorities in every state and territory.
🌐 How Immi Translating Service Helps You Drive Legally in Australia
At Immi Translating Service, we make it easy for travellers to Australia to get their foreign driver’s licences professionally translated with NAATI certification.
Why Choose Us?
✅ NAATI-Certified Translators
All our translations are completed by NAATI-accredited professionals, ensuring they are accepted by all rental companies, police, and road authorities.
🚀 Fast Turnaround
Need it quickly? We offer same-day or next-day delivery for most driver’s licence translations.
🌍 60+ Languages Supported
We cover a wide range of languages including Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, Arabic, Korean, Vietnamese, French, and more.
💻 100% Online & Hassle-Free
Upload your licence securely online from anywhere. Receive digital and hard-copy translations with no fuss.
💰 Affordable Pricing
Transparent, competitive rates—no hidden fees.
🧳 Who Typically Needs This?
Our service is perfect for:
-
International tourists planning to self-drive across Australia.
-
Working holiday makers buying or renting vehicles during their stay.
-
Students who want to rent a car for weekend trips or relocation.
-
Business travellers needing to drive between cities.
📌 Tips for Renting a Car in Australia as a Foreigner
-
Book early, especially during holiday seasons.
-
Check rental policies carefully—some companies charge extra fees for under-25 drivers.
-
Always carry your translated licence when driving.
-
Consider extra insurance for peace of mind on unfamiliar roads.
-
Drive on the left-hand side in Australia!
📝 Summary
| Requirement | Needed? | NAATI-Certified Translation Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Valid foreign licence | ✅ Yes | ✅ If not in English |
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | Optional | ❌ But helpful |
| Proof of English translation | ✅ Yes | ✅ NAATI-certified only |
| Licence includes photo, DOB, and signature | ✅ Yes | ✅ Must be clear in translation |
🚗 Ready to Rent a Car in Australia?
Before you explore the Great Ocean Road, cruise through Queensland, or escape to the Outback, make sure your documents are in order, especially your driver’s licence.
Start your journey here:
-
Upload a photo or scan of your foreign licence
-
Receive your NAATI-certified English translation—fast, simple, and fully accepted
With Immi Translating Service, you’ll drive confidently across Australia knowing your documents are valid, accurate, and legally compliant.
📣 Final Thoughts
Rent a car in Australia and explore everything this incredible country has to offer—but don’t let a language barrier get in the way. A properly translated, NAATI-certified driver’s licence ensures you’re ready for adventure, protected by insurance, and fully respected by the law.
Let Immi Translating Service take care of the translation, so you can take the wheel.
