Car Rental California

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Top Car Deals in California

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, MEX
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, MEX
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, MEX
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, MEX
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your California car rental

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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in California?
Within the past seven days, the lowest daily price for a budget car rental in California was .
What happens if I need to cancel my California car reservation?
We realize that things happen and plans change at the last moment. That's why many prepaid rentals allow for a total refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours before the collection time. Your rental policy should have all the info you need. If you can't locate the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
Where can I go on a road trip from California?
When you've checked out all of the amazing sights in California, there's a lot more to discover in the region. Pick up the keys to a rental car, stow your bags in the trunk and get out there. Here are some road trips we're confident you'll love:

  • You'll find Tehuacan Cathedral and loads more amazing sights in Tehuacan. From California, it's around 110 miles away.
  • About 120 miles away, Salina Cruz is also a hit with wanderers. Make time to experience Salina Cruz Lighthouse while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this colorful city.
  • Head to Playa Revolcadero for a day out in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just sit and unwind. From California, it's around 200 miles away.

How do I find the best car rental deals in California with Expedia?
Pick up an amazing deal with Expedia. Simply choose your ride, select your dates and pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from all the trusted rental suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your California car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in California?
The minimum age to rent a car in California is 21. A surcharge for young drivers generally applies, so check before you book and factor in any extra costs. There may also be restrictions on the types of cars available to young drivers. For example, some providers will only rent out economy to medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Rules may differ between companies, so be sure to read the fine print carefully.
What do you need to rent a car in California?
Renting a car in California is simple. Generally, all you'll need is a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Once you've settled on your wheels, look up the terms and conditions to make sure there are no extra requirements prior to your scheduled pickup.
What side of the road do you drive on in California?
Drivers from the U.S. will feel quite at home zipping around California — motorists here stick to the right side.
What is the cheapest car rental in California?
The lowest rate for a car rental in California within the past seven days was per day. The second best deal was . These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in California?
Yes, so you won't have to rebook a rental car in the middle of your vacation. Head over to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your travel dates and reserve a set of wheels to call your own for however long you need.
Where can I find a California car rental if I am younger than 25?
Renting a car if you're under 25 years in California often depends on the rental supplier you choose. Some places have a surcharge for customers between 21 and 24 years old, but other companies may not have any extra fees for this age bracket. It'd be smart to read the terms and conditions of your prospective car rental dealer to escape extra charges when collecting your car.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in California?
A thorough insurance policy is a wise idea for your upcoming California getaway. That's why we recommend opting in to collision protection while booking your rental car with Expedia. This covers your vehicle from theft, vandalism and accident damage. Some destinations may require you to have a minimum level of liability insurance. This might be included in your rental price or your own auto insurance, so check what you're covered for and if you need it.
Can I drive in California with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in Mexico, then you might need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be allowed to rent a car. Also consider that if an IDP is required, it has no validity on its own. You'll need to show your current license your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other things to note for international car rentals are:

  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or over in most places to rent a car. If you're younger, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of vehicles you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before you drive away. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental car.

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