Perth is one of the world’s most driveable cities for international visitors. The roads are wide, the traffic is manageable by major city standards, the scenery is stunning, and within an hour of the city centre you can be in some of the most beautiful landscape on earth. The hire car is how most international visitors get the best out of WA, and getting the paperwork right before you pick up the keys makes the whole experience significantly smoother.
Burswood Car Rentals has been welcoming international visitors to Perth for over 42 years. We are conveniently located on the route from both the domestic and international airports, and our local team speaks from real experience when guiding overseas visitors through the hire process. Here is everything you need to know.
Driving Licence Requirements for International Visitors
Your ability to drive legally in Western Australia depends on the country that issued your licence and whether it is written in English.
- Licences issued in English: a valid overseas driving licence that is written in English may be used in Western Australia. Carry your licence at all times while driving
- Licences not issued in English: if your overseas licence is not in English, you will generally also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally in WA. The IDP is a translation document issued by the motoring authority in your home country, and must be carried alongside your original home-country licence
- Your IDP cannot be used alone: an IDP is a translation document. It is not valid without the original licence it translates. Always carry both
Specific requirements, including any time limitations on using an overseas licence, are set by the Road Traffic Administration Act and related regulations in Western Australia. Please verify current requirements with Main Roads WA at mainroads.wa.gov.au before your trip. Requirements can change.
The First Rule of Driving in Australia: Keep Left
If you are visiting from a country that drives on the right (which includes the USA, most of Europe, China, and many other nations), the single most important adjustment to make is driving on the left side of the road.
This sounds straightforward until you are tired from a long-haul flight, it is your first time in an unfamiliar hire car, and you are making a right turn at a busy Perth intersection. Here is how to set yourself up for success:
- At every intersection, consciously remind yourself to keep to the left as you exit the turn
- At a roundabout, traffic flows clockwise: give way to vehicles already in the roundabout, entering from your right
- The driver sits on the right side of the car in Australia: if you feel like you are in the wrong seat, you are in the right one
- Be particularly careful when departing from quiet car parks or after a rest stop, as these are common moments for left-right disorientation
- Give yourself an easy first drive: do not leave the airport at peak hour heading directly into the CBD. A short, quiet route on your first drive helps the left-side habit settle in
Key Road Rules for International Visitors to WA
Western Australia’s road rules are based on the Australian Road Rules, which apply across the country with minor state variations. The following are the most important for international visitors to understand:
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up residential areas, 40 km/h in school zones when active, 60 km/h on most urban arterial roads, 80 or 100 km/h on suburban freeways, and 110 km/h on open highways. Speed cameras operate extensively across WA and fines are substantial
- Seatbelts: mandatory for all occupants in all seating positions. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 are properly restrained
- Mobile phones: it is illegal to hold or use a mobile phone while driving in WA. Hands-free systems are permitted. Even brief phone handling at traffic lights is an offence. Use your phone before you start driving or invest in a car mount for navigation
- Blood alcohol limit: 0.05 for most licence holders. Zero for learner and probationary licence holders. Western Australian police conduct roadside breath testing. The penalties are severe. Do not drink and drive
- Give way to pedestrians: at marked pedestrian crossings, pedestrians have right of way. At intersections, give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are turning into
- Bicycle lanes: do not drive in bicycle lanes. Some bicycle lanes in Perth allow car access only at specific times and for specific purposes
What to Bring When Hiring a Car in Perth
When you arrive at Burswood Car Rentals to pick up your vehicle, bring:
- Your original overseas driving licence
- Your International Driving Permit (if your licence is not in English)
- Your passport
- The credit or debit card you will be paying with (the same card used for the booking)
- Your booking confirmation if you have one
If you have any questions before you arrive, the Burswood FAQs page covers many common hire questions, or you can call the team directly on +61 8 9362 4777.
Perth Distances and What Vehicle to Choose
Understanding Perth’s geography helps you choose the right vehicle for your trip:
| Destination | Distance from Perth CBD | Vehicle recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Fremantle | About 20 km south-west | Any vehicle in the fleet |
| Swan Valley | About 25 km north-east | Compact or mid-size sedan |
| Rottnest Island | Ferry from Fremantle | Ferry only; leave the hire car in Fremantle |
| Margaret River | About 280 km south | Sedan or SUV; comfortable for the drive |
| Albany | About 420 km south-east | Sedan or SUV; allow a full day’s driving |
| Kalbarri | About 590 km north | SUV recommended for longer trip comfort |
| Groups or families | Varies | 8-seater Kia Carnival people mover |
For families or groups, Burswood’s 8-seater Kia Carnival makes large-group travel comfortable and economical compared to two separate vehicles. For a premium Perth experience, our Audi luxury vehicles deliver a driving experience that matches Perth’s world-class attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire a car in Perth if I am under 25?
Burswood Car Rentals has minimum age requirements for hire vehicles. Check the FAQs page or contact the team directly to confirm the current minimum age requirements and any applicable young driver policies. The minimum age varies by vehicle type.
Can I pick up my hire car from Perth Airport?
Burswood Car Rentals is located at 16 Teddington Road, Burswood, on the route from both Perth’s domestic and international airports to the CBD. We offer free pickup from Perth hotels in the city. Contact the team to arrange airport or hotel pickup for your hire vehicle.
What is the nil damage excess policy?
Burswood Car Rentals offers a nil damage excess policy, which means you are not required to pay an excess in the event of accidental damage during your hire period. This is particularly valuable for international visitors who may not have suitable travel insurance cover for hire car excess. Review the full terms or ask the team to explain the policy clearly at pickup.