International Driving Permit in Australia: Do You Need One for Campervan Hire?

Can you drive in Australia with an overseas licence?

Yes. According to Austroads, which brings together Australia's road agencies, visiting drivers without a permanent visa can drive on a current overseas licence. You can only drive the types of vehicle your licence covers, and you must follow any conditions on it.

You need to carry your licence whenever you drive. If it's suspended or cancelled, or you've been disqualified from driving, you can't use it in Australia either.

When you need an International Driving Permit

If your licence isn't in English, you must carry either an International Driving Permit or an official English translation along with your licence. If your licence is already in English, an IDP isn't required by law.

Where to get an IDP

An IDP has to be issued in the country that issued your licence, usually by the national motoring association. You can't get one after you arrive in Australia, so sort it out before you fly.

State and territory differences

Each state and territory runs its own licensing, so the rules on how long you can drive on an overseas licence aren't identical.

• New South Wales lets temporary overseas visitors drive on a current overseas licence. If you arrived on or after 1 July 2023 and plan to live in NSW for more than six months, you'll need a NSW licence within six months.
• In the Northern Territory, you need an NT licence, or an exemption, after three months.
• Most other states let visiting drivers use an overseas licence while it's current and they're still a temporary visitor.

If you're on a working holiday and staying a long time, check the rules for the state you're living in. Rules for Australian residents and permanent visa holders are stricter.

What campervan hire companies check

Hire companies follow the law, but they can also set their own rules. At pick-up, expect them to check:

• Your full, current driver licence, with photo
• An IDP or English translation if your licence isn't in English
• That you meet their minimum age, often 21 and sometimes higher for larger motorhomes
• That you've held your licence for long enough, if they have a minimum
• A credit card in the main driver's name for the bond

Every person who will drive needs to show their licence and be added to the rental agreement. If an unlisted driver has an accident, the insurance may not cover it.

Do you need a special licence for a motorhome?

Most campervans and motorhomes in hire fleets can be driven on a standard car licence. Very large vehicles can need a different class, so check the vehicle details if you're booking something big.

Before you drive

Australians drive on the left, and road rules vary a little between states. Our driving guide covers speed limits, roundabouts, wildlife and the rules that most often catch visitors out.

Frequently Asked Questions