Let’s Get Ready for Your Trip!
Streamline Your Pickup with Express Check-In
Save time at the counter by completing our Express Check-In:
- Sign your Rental Agreement.
- Upload your driver’s licence.
- Add any additional drivers.

What to Bring on Pickup Day
Essential Items
Booking Confirmation Email
Printed or Digital Copy
Physical Driver’s Licence
Digital licences are accepted for QLD, NSW, and SA (if verifiable). Otherwise, bring your physical licence.
Valid Debit or Credit Card
In the Renter’s Name for the Security Bond:
- Passenger vehicles: $250 – $1,250 bond.
- Commercial vehicles: $1,250 bond.
Note: We do not accept cash, gift cards, travel cards, Diners, or Tap & Go via phone or watch.
Additional Info for Local Renters
If you’re a local renter, bring two forms of ID (e.g., utility bills or lease agreements) that display your current address, along with your driver’s license.
If you’re a local renter, please bring two forms of ID (for example, utility bills or lease agreements) that display your current address, along with your driver’s license. The bond is refundable on return, provided that all rental terms have been met and there is no vehicle damage.
*Definition of a local renter: A hirer(s) whose residential address is located within 50 kilometers of the Company’s branch location from which the vehicle is hired
Important Reminders
Required Documents
Alpha cannot release your vehicle without the necessary documents and payment methods. Cancellation fees may apply.
Damage Liability information
All vehicles are covered by comprehensive insurance with standard liability:
- $5,000 for passenger vehicles (drivers over 21).
- $6,600 for commercial vehicles (drivers over 25).
You can reduce your liability by choosing one of Alpha’s waiver options.
View the liability comparison table to see your options.
Exclusions
Please note that insurance does not cover:
- Damage from reversing, overhead, undercarriage, water, hail, or negligence.
- Driving on unsealed roads.
- Damage caused by animals
Driving Tips for a Safe Journey
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Avoid distractions like mobile phones.
- Share the drive—add an additional driver for just $9.90/day.
- Never drink or use drugs before driving.
- Alpha Car Hire has a “no pet” policy in the vehicle.
- Do not use your Alpha Car Hire vehicle to tow or push anything.
- Always watch your speed! Speed cameras are in force throughout Australia, so if
you get caught, details of the fine will be sent directly to the car hire company. A $99
Infringement Fee Applies to any infringements received
Vehicle Use Restrictions
- Ferries/Barges: Travel on ferries or barges is not permitted.
- Unsealed Roads & Snow: Driving is not allowed.
- Mileage Allowances:
- Unlimited KM for passenger vehicles.
- 500 KM/day for vans.
- 250 KM/day for minibus.
- 100 KM/day for trucks, utes, and moving vans (extra KM charged at 32.5
cents/KM).
Breakdowns & Emergencies
If your vehicle breaks down:
- Ensure you’re in a safe location.
- Call 24-hour roadside assistance: 1800 648 058.
Driver-Related Errors
Issues such as locking keys in the car may incur a $180 call-out fee unless you’ve
purchased our $5.50/day Roadside Assistance Package.
For a full list of terms and conditions, click here.

Final Checklist for Pickup Day
Booking Confirmation Email.
- Physical Driver’s Licence (or verifiable digital licence for QLD, NSW, and SA).
- Valid Debit or Credit Card in the renter’s name ($250-$1,250 bond). *$2,500 for local renters.
- For local renters: Two forms of ID displaying the same current address.
Pro Tip:
Bookmark this page or take a screenshot to ensure you have all the details handy on pickup day!
Returning Your Vehicle
As your Alpha Car Hire rental wraps up, here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free return:
Avoid Late Fees
To avoid additional charges, please return your vehicle on time. A full day’s fee will be charged if the vehicle is returned more than 1 hour late.
Refuel Before Returning
To avoid a refueling fee, please refill the fuel tank before returning the vehicle.
- Refueling Fee: $4.40 per litre (minimum charge of $20).
Vehicle Condition
Please ensure the vehicle is returned in the same condition as when you collected it.
Upon return, a branch representative will inspect the vehicle:
- If new damage is found, a Vehicle Condition Report will be issued.
- Any estimated damage charges will need to be paid. If the final repair costs are lower, you will be refunded the difference.
Personal Belongings
Don’t forget to check for any personal items before handing over the vehicle! If we need to mail any items back to you, postage charges will apply.
Early Returns
Please note, there are no refunds for early returns.
If your plans change or you’d like to extend your booking, contact the Alpha branch where you rented the vehicle or call us at 1300 227 473.
Where to Return the Vehicle
Drop the vehicle off at the same location where you picked it up.
Rest assured, our friendly staff will be ready to assist you with the return process.
Returning Outside Office Hours
If you anticipate needing to return the car after hours, please contact us during business hours at 1300 227 473 to arrange a smooth handover.
Bond Refund Information
The bond held on your card is typically released automatically by your bank within 7-10 business days.
- In most cases, this is a Pre-Authorisation hold and won’t appear as a transaction.
- If you experience delays, please contact your bank to confirm their holding times for Pre-Authorisations.
For further assistance, reach out to your rental branch directly.
