Perth is one of those cities where you really get the best out of it with your own set of wheels. Beautiful beaches, a modern city centre and easy access to nature are all at your fingertips when you have a rental car. Whether you're arriving at Perth Airport or staying in the city, Road Genius will walk you through what you need to know for a hassle-free car rental experience.
Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
---|---|---|
Perth Airport |
|
|
Perth CBD |
|
|
Bayswater/Kewdale |
|
|
Fremantle |
|
|
Joondalup |
|
|
Wait Time Notes: Peak airport rental queues occur when multiple flights arrive at the same time (6-8 AM and 5-8 PM). During school holidays and December-January, vehicle availability can be limited across all locations. Book in advance to not miss out.
After-Hours Services: Most airport rental desks close by 11 pm. That means if you arrive on a late flight, you'll need to find accommodation and collect your car the next day. Many providers do offer after-hours return via key drop boxes.
One-Way Car Rental: You can rent vehicles one-way from many suppliers, with popular routes including from Perth to Adelaide, Perth to Broome, Perth to Darwin, as well as cross-country Perth to Sydney.
Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Perth to Fremantle | 20 km | 30 minutes | Take coastal route via Cottesloe Beach for scenic views. Fremantle has 40 km/h zones in centre, drive slowly. |
Perth to Rockingham | 45 km | 1 hour | Via Kwinana Freeway then Roe Highway. Visit Penguin Island and Shoalwater Marine Park. |
Perth to Mandurah | 70 km | 1.5 hours | Direct via Kwinana Freeway. Known for canals, estuary, and dolphin spotting. |
Perth to Joondalup | 26 km | 30 minutes | Via Mitchell Freeway. Avoid weekday peak hours (7-9 AM southbound, 4-6 PM northbound). |
Perth to Yanchep | 51 km | 60 minutes | See koalas and wild kangaroos at Yanchep National Park. Entry fee applies. |
Perth to The Pinnacles | 200 km | 2.5 hours | Via Indian Ocean Drive. Stop at Yanchep National Park and Lancelin sand dunes. Park entry fee applies. |
Perth to Margaret River | 270 km | 3 hours | Via Forrest Highway. Stop at Busselton Jetty. Explore wineries, caves, and beaches. |
Scenic Alternative Routes:
Location | Parking Options | Cost & Time Limits |
---|---|---|
Perth CBD |
|
|
Fremantle |
|
|
Beaches |
|
|
Kings Park |
|
|
National Parks |
|
|
Local Driving Rules:
Traffic Considerations:
Perth's sprawling layout and distant attractions make a rental car essential for many visitors. Public transport is adequate in the city centre but limited for reaching outer suburbs and natural attractions.
With your own vehicle, you can:
Cost Factor | Budget Range (AUD) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Base Daily Rate |
|
Rates vary significantly by season. December-January and school holidays can be 50% more expensive. |
Insurance Excess | $4,000-6,000 standard $0 with daily fee |
Excess reduction typically costs around $14-40/day depending on provider. No Birds offers $14/day for $0 excess. |
Airport Surcharge | Around 20% premium | City and suburban pickups avoid this fee. |
Additional Driver | $5-15/day per driver | Spouse/partner often included free with major companies. |
Young Driver Fee | $15-30/day | Applies to drivers 21-24 years. Minimum rental age is 21. |
Child Seats | Around $10/day (capped) | Consider bringing your own if practical. |
Fuel Policy | Full-to-full | Return with full tank or pay premium refuelling charges. |
Money-Saving Tips:
Vehicle Selection:
Weather Considerations:
Practical Advice:
Is it worth renting a car at Perth Airport or should I pick up in the city? Airport pickup is convenient, but it costs about 20% more. If you're staying in the city first and don't need a car right away, you can save by picking up in the city or suburbs like Bayswater.
Can international visitors drive in Perth? Yes, you can drive with your valid overseas licence if it's in English. If not, you'll need an International Driving Permit along with your original licence.
What's the best car for visiting Margaret River? A midsize sedan or small SUV is suitable for Margaret River, offering comfort for the 3-hour drive from Perth and space for wine purchases or beach gear.
Are there any toll roads in Perth or Western Australia? No, Western Australia has no toll roads, bridges, or tunnels, making driving cost-effective once you've rented your car.
Is it safe to drive at night around Perth? City driving is generally safe at night, but rural night driving is not recommended due to wildlife hazards, particularly kangaroos which are most active at dusk and dawn.