Frequently Asked Questions
Check Alpha Car Hire Terms & Conditions
Driver Requirements FAQs
What are the age requirements for renting a car with Alpha Car Hire?
To rent a vehicle with Alpha Car Hire, the primary driver and all additional drivers must be at least 21 years old. All drivers must possess a minimum of 12 months of driving experience on a full, valid, and unrestricted driver’s licence. Please note that learner permits and provisional licences (P1 or P2) are not accepted for car rental.
What type of driver's licence do I need to rent a car?
All drivers must hold a full, valid, and unrestricted driver’s licence. We do not accept learner permits or provisional (P-plate) licences.
Digital Driver’s Licences: Alpha Car Hire accepts digital driver’s licences issued from Queensland (QLD), New South Wales (NSW), and South Australia (SA). When presenting a digital licence, it must be verifiable through the official government app at the time of collection. If for any reason the digital licence cannot be verified, a physical licence will be required.
What payment methods are accepted when picking up my rental car?
For all Alpha Car Hire bookings, a valid Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit card in the primary hirer’s name is required at the time of vehicle pick-up. This is used for the security deposit and any outstanding rental charges.
Specific Payment Notes:
“Pay Now” bookings (pre-paid): You can use Google Pay or Apple Pay for the rental amount if you’ve paid in full online. However, a physical Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit card is still required at pick-up for the security bond.
“Pay Later” bookings: Only a physical Visa, Mastercard, or American Express credit card is accepted at pick-up for both the rental charges and the security deposit.
Not Accepted: Cash, gift cards, and contactless payments (like PayPass) are not accepted for rental payments or security deposits at the time of pick-up.
Are International Driving Permits or translated licences required for overseas visitors?
Yes, if your overseas driver’s licence is not in English, it must be accompanied by either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an approved English translation. The IDP or translation must be presented alongside your original foreign licence. Your licence must also include a photograph. Ensure your licence is valid and unexpired for the entire rental period.
Do all drivers need to be listed on the rental agreement?
Yes, absolutely. For insurance purposes and legal compliance, every person who intends to drive the Alpha Car Hire rental vehicle must be listed on the rental agreement. All listed drivers must meet our age and licence requirements and present their valid driver’s licence at the time of vehicle collection. An additional daily fee may apply for each extra driver.
What identification is required for local renters?
For local renters (defined as those whose residential address is within 50 kilometres of the Alpha Car Hire rental branch), in addition to your valid driver’s licence, you must provide another valid proof of address. This second form of identification helps confirm your residential status.
Accepted Proofs of Address (Examples):
Utility bill (e.g., electricity, gas, water) issued within the last 3 months.
Current rent receipt.
Council rates notice.
Bank statement (dated within the last 3 months).
Documents NOT Accepted as Proof of Address:
Mobile phone bills.
Credit card statements.
Employment letters.
Can a P-plate driver rent a car?
No, Alpha Car Hire does not permit drivers holding Provisional (P1 or P2) licences or Learner Permits to rent or drive our vehicles. All drivers must possess a full, valid, and unrestricted driver’s licence for a minimum of 12 months.
Is there a young driver surcharge for car rentals?
Yes, drivers aged between 21 and 24 years old will incur a young driver surcharge per day. This fee covers the additional insurance risk associated with less experienced drivers. Specific vehicle categories might also be restricted for young drivers. Please check our detailed Driver Requirements page or contact our team for current rates and restrictions.
What if my Australian driver's licence is expired or suspended?
You cannot rent or drive an Alpha Car Hire vehicle with an expired, suspended, or cancelled driver’s licence. All drivers must hold a current, valid, and unrestricted licence for the entire rental period. Driving with an invalid licence will void your rental agreement and any insurance coverage.