What is the minimum age to hire a car in the Australia?

In Australia, the minimum age to hire a car is typically 21 years old, though some companies allow car hire under 21 with additional fees and tighter vehicle restrictions.

Most hire firms classify drivers under 25 as “young drivers” and limit them to standard vehicle categories such as economy or compact cars. Premium SUVs, 4WDs, luxury models and performance vehicles are often restricted until you turn 25.

You’ll usually also need to have held your full, unrestricted licence for at least 12 months. P-plate or provisional licence holders may face additional conditions or may not be eligible at all, depending on the provider.

In short: Yes, it’s possible to get car hire under 25 in Australia — but expect fewer vehicle choices and extra costs.

Learn more about the fees, charges and payment options for hiring cars in our guide.

How much is the under‑25 car hire surcharge?

The “young driver surcharge” is a daily fee added to your hire cost. In Australia, expect typical surcharges from $20-35 per day (again, depending on company, car group and location) for young driver car rental. Expect the surcharge to increase for larger or luxury vehicles.

For premium or airport locations, surcharges may be higher or capped differently. And because the surcharge can dramatically impact cost, it’s crucial to compare total prices, not just the base hire rate.

Can you hire a car under 25 without paying extra?

It’s uncommon, but sometimes possible. Here are a few scenarios where fees may be reduced:

• Membership discounts: NRMA, RACV, RACQ or similar state motoring memberships may offer discounted rates.

• Student deals: Some providers run student promotions, though the surcharge may still apply.

• Promotional codes: Seasonal sales can reduce overall costs, offsetting the young driver fee.

• Older main driver: If someone 25+ is listed as the main driver (where permitted), you may reduce some charges — but additional driver fees may apply.

Waivers are rare, but it’s always worth checking directly with the provider.

Why do companies charge under‑25 fees?

It comes down to insurance and risk. Insurance claims statistics show that younger drivers have a higher likelihood of accidents, so hire companies add surcharges to young drivers to offset that risk.

Younger drivers are also often limited to smaller, lower-risk categories (economy, city cars). Premium, sports or luxury vehicles are typically restricted until you’re 25 or older.

How to reduce or avoid the surcharge

Even if you don’t qualify for a waiver, you can use strategies to lower the cost:

• Use non-airport pick-up locations: Airport locations often include premium location fees on top of the young driver surcharge.

• Hire smaller cars: Economy and compact vehicles usually have the lowest fees and fewer restrictions.

• Book with free cancellation: Lock in a rate, then check again closer to departure in case prices drop.

• Set alerts: Skyscanner will notify you if rates drop.

• Check credit cards/insurance cover: Some credit cards or policies may cover excess or reduce costs.

What to check before you hire

Before you confirm a car hire booking under 25, scan these policy details:

• Insurance coverage: Are you forced to accept more coverage or a higher excess?

• Licence tenure: Did you hold your licence long enough?

• Fuel and distance policy: Some surcharges relate to heavy use or going above kilometre caps.

• Vehicle restrictions: Double-check that premium or large models are allowed for young drivers.

• Extra driver & cancellation rules: See how fees or conditions apply if someone else drives or you cancel.

Reading these terms carefully before you book can prevent nasty surprises at the desk.