We approached our back-end team to conduct a survey regarding the bookings specifically received for EVs over the past 6 months. On going through the data, we were amazed to know that the maximum reservations were made for electric vehicles in Australia. We also get a lot of queries regarding the same: can tourists hire electric cars?
The answer is yes. International travellers can hire electric car rental in Australia, but there are several practical considerations to keep in mind before making a reservation. To make it simple, we have explained everything you need to know, including where EVs are available, licence requirements, charging options, costs, road rules and useful travel tips for your journey.
Is an electric car rental easy to find in Australia?
Electric car rentals are becoming easier to find in Australia, especially in major cities and popular tourist destinations. However, availability still varies depending on where you’re travelling and how far in advance you book.
In capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra, several international as well as local suppliers now offer electric vehicles as part of their fleets. These typically include models from Tesla, BYD, Polestar, Hyundai and MG.
You will get a wide range of options at airport locations like Sydney Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL) and inner-city branches, where demand is highest and charging infrastructure is well established.
Outside major cities, the suppliers that are available on our platform can be more limited. Regional towns and remote areas often have fewer options overall or electric vehicles may not be offered at all. If your itinerary includes long-distance road trips or rural destinations, it’s important to check whether charging stations are available along your route before choosing an EV.
What documents do tourists need to rent an electric car in Australia?
To hire an electric car rental in Australia as a tourist, you generally need:
- A valid driver’s licence. Digital or app-based licences are usually not accepted; therefore, carrying a physical licence is essential.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet.
- A passport for identity verification
- A credit card in the main driver’s name
Minimum age requirements for renting an EV
The minimum age to hire an electric car in Australia is 21 years. However, premium electric vehicles such as higher-end Tesla models often require drivers to be at least 25 years old.
Drivers under 25 may also be subject to a young driver surcharge. This surcharge varies by suppliers and location, so it’s worth checking the terms & conditions before booking.
How charging works when you hire an electric car in Australia
Charging infrastructure overview
Australia’s EV charging network is expanding rapidly, but its coverage is not that uniform across the country.
- Cities & major highways: Good access to fast chargers
- Tourist regions: Moderate availability
- Remote or rural areas: Limited charging options
If you plan to drive long distances or explore regional Australia, charging availability should be part of your trip planning.
How do tourists charge rental electric cars?
Most EV renters use public charging stations located at shopping centres, highway rest stops, public car parks or hotels. Many travellers choose accommodation with on-site EV charging, making it easier to recharge overnight and start the next day with a full battery.
If you are not sure about the charging points, ask your supplier for instructions or access cards for major charging networks. You can also download EV charging apps to locate nearby stations and check availability.
Charging costs are usually paid by the customer, unless the rental agreement specifically includes complimentary charging.
Do you need to return the electric car fully charged?
While comparing different car rental deals, you will notice that return policies vary from supplier to supplier. That also means that some providers might give you the car with a partial charge and some with a full battery.
Similarly, at the end of your agreement, you might be asked to return the electric vehicle with a minimum battery level or a certain percentage, as given in your booking voucher.
Fees may apply if the charge is too low during the drop-off. So it’s always better to check the return conditions to avoid unexpected charges.
How much does it cost to rent an electric car in Australia?
The cost of hiring an electric car rental in Australia depends on various factors like the holiday season (peak travel months), location, the premium or basic EV model, your rental duration, extra add-ons, etc. To give you a fair idea, below is the average cost for a 7 day EV rental from Perth Airport [PER]:
- Premium electric vehicle starting from AUD 118.47 per day
- A compact electric vehicle starting from AUD 68.9 per day
- SUV starting from AUD 77.05 per day
Is renting an electric car worth it for tourists?
Ideally, EVs are best suited for urban travel, coastal routes & well-developed tourist corridors. Before you finalize your reservation, consider these points:
Pros
- You have an environment friendly travel
- Enjoy the quiet and smooth driving experience
- Make use of modern technology and safety features
- Practical for city driving and short road trips
Cons
- Requires charging planning
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas of the country
- Higher rental prices for some luxury models
Tips for tourists renting an electric car in Australia
- It is recommended to book 1-2 months in advance during peak months and about 2 to 3 weeks before your trip in the off-season
- Always plan your routes around charging locations to avoid EV range anxiety
- Download EV charging apps like PlugShare, Chargefox and Evie before your arrival
- Understand charging speeds (fast vs standard chargers)
- Check the return charge requirements in your booking voucher carefully
Final thoughts
Tourists can absolutely hire electric cars in Australia and if you are planet-conscious, then you will surely love the modern, eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore the country. While EV rentals require more planning than traditional cars, they are an excellent option for city travel and popular tourist routes.
People often ask
-
Is the charging cost included when I hire an electric car rental in Australia?
Charging costs are paid separately if you hire an electric car in Australia. It is not included in your rental price.
-
Which charging app should I download for my Tesla Model 3 electric car in Australia?
For public charging, you can download the official Tesla app, Chargefox, Evie and PlugShare for locating all other network chargers for your Tesla Model 3 electric car in Australia.
-
What is included in the rental price of an electric vehicle in Australia?
The inclusions given in your rental price of an electric vehicle in Australia vary from supplier to supplier. The common ones are Theft Waiver(THW), Third Party Liability (TPL), Collision Damage Waiver, Airport Surcharge, Taxes, Road Licensing Fees, Free Breakdown Assistance, etc. To know the exact inclusions given in your booking, refer to your rental agreement.
-
Can I hire a long term electric vehicle in Australia?
Yes, you can hire an electric vehicle for a long term in Australia by comparing different car rental offers provided by different international as well as local suppliers.
