Seamless Car Rentals at Avalon Airport (AVV)

US license holders can drive in Australia with their valid US driver's license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not legally required for US citizens. However, an IDP provides a certified translation and is useful if you're stopped by police or need to deal with rental companies. Rent an IDP from AAA before departure for about $20 USD.

Avalon Airport has rental counters in the terminal (Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz operate here). After baggage claim, walk to the rental desk—expect 15-30 minutes for processing during peak hours. Shuttle buses to off-site depots run every 20-30 minutes. Book online in advance and have your license and credit card ready to speed up the process.

Melbourne's CityLink and EastLink are toll roads with no cash lanes—you need an e-tag or day pass. Rental companies charge $3-5/day for their e-tag plus toll costs (typically $3-15 per trip). If you're driving from Avalon to Melbourne CBD or the Great Ocean Road, you'll likely hit toll roads. Ask your rental company about e-tag options before signing off the lot.

It takes 2-3 days to fully adjust. Key rules: driver sits on the right, overtaking lane is on the right, and roundabouts go clockwise. When turning left at an intersection, watch for pedestrians crossing from your right. Use the dashed line on your side of the road as your reference point. Consider a short defensive driving course if planning extensive regional driving.

Kangaroos and wallabies are most active at dawn and dusk—rural roads near the Great Ocean Road and inland Victoria are hotspots. A collision with a large kangaroo can total a car. Slow down at night (under 80 km/h in risk areas), use high beams on dark roads, and if you see one, brake but don't swerve. Check your rental insurance for animal strike coverage—most policies exclude it or have high deductibles.