Additional Drivers & Age Restrictions

Q: How old do I have to be to rent a vehicle?

A: All renters must be aged at 21+ years for standard vehicles, at the commencement of the rental. You must be aged 25+ years for specialty vehicles such as a BMW.

For any driver be they the renter or an additional driver, aged 21 to 24 inclusive, an age surcharge of $16.50 per day applies.

No surcharges apply to additional drivers aged 25+ years and more.

Q: What Driver's License do I need to rent a vehicle?

A: Thrifty recognises all current non-provisional and non-probationary Australian drivers licenses and current overseas licenses. 

The required driver's license must be in English with photo and produced at the commencement of the rental. Should the license be in another language or have no photo, an International Driving Permit must accompany it.

Please note:

*Any vehicle that holds more than 12 people requires an LR license

*Any vehicle larger than a 3 tonne truck requires an MR license

*Any vehicle that holds more than 21 people requires an MR license

*Any vehicle that is a 8 tonne truck or larger requires a HR license

Q: Is there an additional charge if there will be more than one driver?

A: No, there are no additional driver charges. All drivers must be present at the rental counter at the time of collection, we'll then apply your details to the rental.

Booking Guidelines

Q: What is an "Apply" booking?

A: There are instances whereby we may need to check availability for a particular vehicle type. Your request is sent through to our Reservations Department, whereby they will check availability with the location and confirm your booking within 2 hours of your request.

Q: Once I have made a booking, can I change the details of my booking?

A: You can modify your booking prior to the pick up date. You can alter your dates, times, vehicle type and additional extras prior to collecting your car. If possible, please ensure that your changes are at least 12 hours prior to your vehicle collection. Please note that if you have already collected your vehicle and want to make a change, its best to contact the pick up locations. Just refer to your contact details provided on your Rental Agreement.

Q: How do I book online?

A: In order to book online, you'll need:

• Select the Type of Vehicle you are after
• Search for the Thrifty rental location from where you would like to pick up and return your vehicle.
• Select the dates and time of your rental
• Select your vehicle of choice and click on 'Book Now'. You may from time to time see 'Apply Now', this will hold your vehicle and a reservations consultant will contact you within 2 hours to confirm the reservation.
  
• Select any additional extras, such as child seats, liability reduction, Mobile GPS unit that you would like to add to your booking

Q: Can I book more than one vehicle at a time?

A: Yes you can. Simply complete each booking and you will receive a separate confirmation number for each booking.

Q: Why is my flight number and terminal required when making a booking?

A: In order to ensure that we can have your vehicle waiting for you once you arrive its important to let us know your flight number upon completion of the booking. If you are unsure of your flight number, then indicate the terminal and we'll make sure we are ready to greet you.

Q: How will I know if my booking is confirmed?

A: When you make an online booking we will send you a booking confirmation by email. This includes your booking number, details of your pickup and return location, as well as the price and other useful information. We advise that you print it out and take it with you when picking up your car to speed up the process.

Cancellation Policy and Deposit Bonds

Q: Can I cancel my booking free of charge?

A: No, you may have to pay a penalty in certain circumstances, as follows: Australia Wide (not including Northern Territory) For cancellations of cars with more than 7 days notice there is no charge. Cancellation with less than 7 days notice a full day cancellation fee will apply.

4WDs Buses & Trucks up to 14 days no charge. 4WDs Buses & Trucks less than 14 days a full day cancellation fee will apply. Northern Territory / Broome / Kununurra Cancellation with less than 7 days notice for Darwin, Alice Springs & Ayers Rock, a $220 cancellation fee will apply. 14 days notice is required for all other Territory Thrifty locations.

4WDs Buses & Trucks up to 14 days no charge. 4WDs Buses & Trucks less than 14 days a $330 cancellation fee will apply.

Q: Will a deposit bond be required upon collecting my vehicle?

A: Thrifty will require a deposit of between $385 for passenger vehicles & $1100 for 4WD, Speciality or Commercial vehicles, upon collection of the vehicle to cover additional charges i.e. fuel, additional kilometres, and liability waiver.

This deposit is to be paid by any internationally recognised credit card. NO CASH DEPOSIT WILL BE ACCEPTED. An imprint of the credit card, and the deposit, will be taken on pick up of the vehicle.

Credit card must be in the name of the authorised renter and the credit card holder must be present at the time of collection.

Driving Restrictions

Q: Can I drive my vehicle off road?

A: No, all non 4WD vehicles are not permitted to travel on unsealed roads. There are some exceptions for 4WD's as per below:

Western Australia
4WD's are permitted to travel on unsealed government gazetted roads. If vehicles are travelling interstate or into remote areas prior written approval by Thrifty WA must be given.
Travelling into some areas of Western Australia require National Park passes these are available for sale from the Perth Tourist Centre.

South Australia & Kangaroo Island
4WD vehicles can be used on gazetted unsealed roads. Travelling into some areas of the South Australian outback may involve the need for a Desert Pass permit. All vehicles are permitted to travel to Kangaroo Island if collected from a corporate location only.

Cooktown
4WD vehicles are permitted to travel as far as Cooktown from Cairns City and Airport locations only.

Fraser, Moreton and Stradbroke Islands*
Thrifty allows selected 4WD's to be driven on Fraser, Morton and Stradbroke Islands when hired from Thrifty Hervey Bay. * Special liability charges may apply, refer to liability matrix on Page 8.

Northern Territory/Broome/Kununurra
For 4WD vehicles there is no reduced liability option available for travel on the Tanami Track, Canning Stock Route, Gulf Track, Cape York Peninsular track and Mitchell Plateau.

Dusk to Dawn: any damage sustained to the rented vehicle as a result of a collision with an animal between the hours of dusk and dawn will not be covered by Thrifty's damage liabilities. All damages and recovery costs will be the responsibility of the hirer.

On all rental vehicles damage to overhead, under body or damage caused by water is not covered by any damage liabilities i.e. it is at the hire's own expense.

In Broome no vehicles are allowed to travel on any beaches.

Permits
Collision Damage Cover is not valid in the event of unauthorised en

General

Q: If I lock my keys in the vehicle am I covered by Road Side Assistance?

A: No, Roadside Assistance does not cover non-mechanical defects such as, lost keys, keys locked in the vehicle, flat battery due to lights being left on etc.

Q: Can I tow using a Thrifty Vehicle?

A: No, a Thrifty Vehicle can not be used to tow or push anything, this forms part of the Rental Terms and Conditions.

Q: Do I need to check the condition of the vehicle prior to leaving the keys at the counter?

A: Yes, and if you found a new apparent defect (not listed on the vehicle statement remitted at time of pick up) you have to inform the Thrifty employee for joint examination.

Q: Can you guarantee the make and model of the vehicle I prefer?

A: All vehicles are subject to availability. This means that we can't guarantee the make or model of the vehicle, as we often have varying models within the same category. Just make sure you ask you our friendly counter staff at the time of collection and we'll see what we can do for you.

Q: Can you guarantee a specific colour?

A: No, unfortunately not. The colour of your vehicle is subject to availability, we'll certainly do our best to meet your request and however we can not guarantee it. Just make sure you ask you our friendly counter staff at the time of collection and we'll see what we can do for you.

Q: Can I book Internationally on your web site?

A: Visit our international page to go to our interactive map of the world. Simply click on the Country and you'll be transferred to the local Thrifty web site.

Q: Can I book a Truck on your web site?

A: Yes you can. Thrifty has one of the most comprehensive ranges of trucks, utes, buses and vans in Australia. In most instances you'll be able to book in your vehicle and obtain an instant confirmation. In some circumstances, we may need to check availability and your booking will go into our Apply queue. This means that one of our reservations consultants will check availability and advise you accordingly.

Q: I'm moving, can I rent moving equipment?

A: Yes. Thrifty has a wide range of moving equipment from packing boxes and tape, to trolleys, hydraulic lifters, blankets, bubble wrap and rope. You name it, we've more than likely go it. Just simply call the location and we'll be happy to arrange it for you at an additional cost.

Q: Can anyone other than myself drive the car?

A: Nobody can drive a Thrifty Vehicle whose name does not appear on the Rental Agreement. When collecting the vehicle each driver must be listed on the Rental Agreement and they must present their drivers licence at time of collection.

Q: Can I extend the rental duration?

A: Extending the rental duration is possible at time of check out or during the rental itself. You will need to contact or come in person to the nearest location. The extension is subject to vehicle availability and extra payment.

Q: Does Thrifty offer one-way rentals?

A: If you wish to return the car to a different rental location, please check the rate and feasibility during the reservation process. Thrifty operates a National network in order to allow flexible traveling, however in non-participating locations you will be required to pay a higher price.

Q: Can I Rent a Baby or Child Seat?

A: Yes, Thrifty can provide you with baby and child safety seats at an additional cost. Just make sure you select the appropriate seat at the time of booking in our options and we'll ensure that it's waiting for you upon your arrival.

Q: Can I purchase a day pass for the CityLink Toll in Melbourne?

A: Yes, Thrifty can provide you with a day pass as part of your rental. Just ask our friendly counter staff at the time of collecting your vehicle and they'll be happy to provide it to you.

Q: Do you offer any long term rental discounts?

A: Yes we do. Our web site will vary in price depending on the length of rental. In simple terms the longer you rent the vehicle the cheaper the price. If your looking for a long term rental in excess of 30 days, please call our Contact Centre on 1300 367 227 and they'll be able to give you a long term rental price.

Q: What is a Thrifty Corporate Discount (CD) number?

A: A Thrifty Corporate Discount number can provide you with specific rates and discounts. This is often provided to our Business Renters, who use car rental on a frequent basis. For more information on becoming a Corporate Account holder, please click here and fill in the online form.

Q: What if I have an accident?

A: If you are involved in an accident, you should do the following:

• Call the Thrifty Roadside Assistance number 1800 811 506,if necessary; immediately contact the police in case of third party liability and the emergency services in case anyone is injured
• Do not leave the vehicle without making sure it is safe.
• Write down names and addresses of all people involved and any witnesses never admit liability.
• All vehicle repairs must be conducted with the formal approval of your nearest Thrifty Office.

Q: What if I break down or need help on the road?

A: Thrifty provides free 24 hour Roadside Assistance in case of emergency, breakdown or accident involving your Thrifty rental vehicle. Just call 1800 811 506

Q: Do you offer any long term rental discounts?

A: Yes we do. Our web site will vary in price depending on the length of rental. In simple terms the longer you rent the vehicle the cheaper the price. If your looking for a long term rental in excess of 30 days, please call our Contact Centre on 1300 367 227 and they'll be able to give you a long term rental price.

Q: What is a Thrifty Corporate Discount (CD) number?

A: A Thrifty Corporate Discount number can provide you with specific rates and discounts. This is often provided to our Business Renters, who use car rental on a frequent basis. For more information on becoming a Corporate Account holder, please click here and fill in the online form.

Optional Loss or Damage Cover

Q: Renter's current responsibility

A: From the time you collect your vehicle you and your nominated driver (as per rental agreement), are financially responsible for any loss of damage to the vehicle. This includes damage caused outside of your control including hailstorms.

Q: Is Damage Cover included in the rate quoted?

A: Your rental fee will include our Standard Cover which includes your Third Party Cover (CTP). Your vehicle comes with a standard Damage Recovery Fee (Premium Location Suracharge and Administration Fee may also apply). It's important to note that Single Vehicle Accident (SVA) fees may also apply.

Q: What is a Single Vehicle Accident?

A: A Single Vehicle Accident (SVA) means an incident in which: (a) no other motor vehicle is involved (e.g. rollovers, collisions with animals, trees, pedestrians etc) (b) another motor vehicle is involved but: - (i) that other motor vehicle or its driver has not been identified to us; or (ii) at the time of the incident the other vehicle was stationary, parked or driving in reverse

The Single Vehicle Accident fee applies (Australia wide, not including Northern Territory) in addition to the Damage Recovery Fee in the case of an accident.

A higher Single Vehicle Accident Liability Fee applies to Northern Territory rentals.

Q: Can I reduce my liability?

A: Ultimate Protection (UP): For Australia Wide reduces your Damage Recovery fee and Single Vehicle Accident Fee to nil. Tyre and windscreen damage are also covered when damage is accidental.

Premium Protection (PP) reduces your Damage Recovery Fee however the Single Vehicle Accident Fee still applies and you are not covered for tyre and windscreen damage.

*Conditions and exclusions apply. See full terms and conditions for details.

Pricing and Payment

Q: Why do rates change so often?

A: Vehicle rental pricing, is just like airline pricing. If you purchase in peak periods, you'll be paying higher prices. Pricing can also vary from location to location, as it may vary depending on where & what you want to rent. If you're thinking Thrifty, it's best to book in advance. That way you'll get the cheapest rate possible for your rental. Don't forget to check out our specials, you'll find some great offers in there for you.

Q: What's the cost of a rental?

A: Our car rental charges are calculated in periods of 24 hours. We do offer you a grace period of 59 minutes, without additional charges being applied.

However, if you were to return your vehicle after 27 hours, you would be charged for 2 days. Refer to table for additional hire calculation. FROM TO CHARGE 0 Mins 59 Mins Grace Period 1 Hour 1 Hour 59 Mins 1/3 Of Daily Rental 2 Hours 2 Hour 59 Mins 2/3 Of Daily Rental 3 Hours + Full Daily Rate A full breakdown of charges is provided with your quote, so please Click Here to obtain a Quote and complete a Booking

Q: Are there any additional charges to the rental?

A:

Any additional charges such as Young Driver surcharge, Premium Location Surcharge (as known as Airport Recovery Fee), Vehicle Registration Recovery Fee, Administration Fees and optional extras are all included in your Quote at the time of booking. Other extras such as refuelling or our Pre-paid Fuel service may be applicable at the completion of your rental. A surcharge of 1.5% will apply when paying by credit card.

The 1.5% is calculated on the amount debited on your credit card. The owner of the credit card must be present at the time of vehicle collection. Cash payment is an accepted payment type, however a security bond will be required. Please ask our friendly counter staff for further information.

Q: What does 'Vehicle Registration Recovery Fee' mean?

A: This fee covers costs related to vehicle registration and toll registration. The fee is a per day charge as is included in your rental quote.

Q: What does 'Premium Location Surcharge' mean?

A: The Premium Location Surcharge (also known as Airport Recovery Fee) applies to all Rentals collected from any of our Airport Locations. All goods and services purchased or supplied from an Airport incur an additional charge.

Q: Are my credit card details secure, when booking online?

A: The online booking process is located on a secure server that guarantees the safety of a transaction. The system uses encrypting technology to ensure that all communication between your computer and our server cannot be intercepted.

Q: Can I use a credit card up front and then pay for the rental with cash later?

A: Yes you can. We hold an estimate of the rental charges against your credit at the time of collection. Upon returning the vehicle, you'll be asked if you want to proceed with the charges against that credit card or if you want to change your payment method. It's important to note that if you decide to pay by cash, it may still take up to 14 days for the bank to reverse its hold of your funds on your credit card.

Q: What credit card can I use?

A:

You can use all the major credit cards. It's important to note that the credit card holder must be present at the time of collection.

The 1.5% is calculated on the amount debited on your credit card. The owner of the credit card must be present at the time of vehicle collection.

Q: Can I check rates online without making a booking?

A: Yes, you can use the Thrifty website to check rates. All prices quoted on the Thrifty Web site are guaranteed. Please Click Here to obtain a Quote and complete a Booking.

Q: What is the minimum rental period?

A: The minimum rental period is 24 hours.

Returning your Vehicle

Q: What refuelling options do I have?

A: Option One: Purchase our "Pre-paid Fuel" option. This enables you to pay in advance for your fuel, so you can bring the vehicle back empty without having to incur any additional cost. You'll find that our Pre-paid Fuel rates are sometimes cheaper than what you'll get at the pump, so take advantage and save time and money. Option Two: If you don't have time to stop for petrol and won't be using a full tank, let us fill it up for you. You'll be charged the location re-fuelling rate at the time of returning your vehicle, so please ask your counter staff upon collection. Option Three: Make sure you go to a petrol station before returning your vehicle and bring it back full. This will avoid any additional re-fuelling charges

Q: Can I return the vehicle outside the location operating hours?

A: Yes, you may return your vehicle when the Thrifty location is closed, to an alternative location. The vehicle will remain your responsibility until it has been checked by a Thrifty Representative.

Q: What happens if I return the vehicle late?

A: If the vehicle is returned up to 3 hours late a third of the rental will be charged. If it is returned greater than 3 hours late a full days rental is applied.

Q: Can I return the vehicle to a different location?

A: If you wish to return the car to a different rental location, please check the rate and feasibility during the reservation process. Thrifty operates a National network in order to allow flexible traveling, however in non-participating locations you'll be required to pay a higher price.