Figuring out the requirements for renting a car can be difficult. However, we’ve created a guide on what you’ll need to know before you rent. Keep reading to find out all the important requirements for driving in California.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
How Old To Rent A Car In California
The age to rent a car legally in California is 21, but many companies will require you to be aged 25 or above. Hertz offers an option that allows drivers aged between 21 and 24 years of age to rent, with qualifications such as having a valid driver’s license, meeting other requirements and abiding by the company’s leasing contract:
- Having a clean driving record.
- Pay a fee of $19 per day
- A valid driving license
- A valid credit card
* Hertz has recently waived the Young Renter’s fee for College Graduates.
Renting a car can be a headache for new drivers. But, with the Enterprise “Teen Driver” program, you can rent cars between 18 – 28 year old that have completed the appropriate training courses. You should contact your local office to learn what the rules are in your area.
Generally, rental cars in California will require drivers who are under 25 to meet certain requirements that may include surcharges.
But there’s more to it than just age. Understanding the various elements involved in the car rental process is crucial for a smooth experience. This article will explore these aspects, along with the unique considerations when renting a car in popular Californian cities like Los Angeles, San Jose, San Diego, San Francisco, and Sacramento.
Where Can You Rent Cars In California?
It is simple to rent from many rental services. They can provide you with any car, even those under 21. These cars are usually an average of $25 a day. If you are under the age of 25, it may be difficult to find what you need. Luxury vehicles may not be available for those not appropriate for an experienced driver.
Here’s a list of companies to rent cars from in California:
- Hertz
- Enterprise
- National Car Rental
- Alamo Rent-A-Car
- Turo
- Thrifty
- Avis
- Budget
- United Rent-a-Car
- Lux Rentals
- West Side Rent-a-Car
- Elementary Car Rental
- National Car Rental
- SNA Auto Rental
- Quick Auto & Van Rental
- Stop-N-Go Rent-A-Car
- Falcon car Rental
- Yale Car & Van Rental
You can rent high-end cars with some extra costs, but this may take some searching and negotiating. In California, renting a high-end car will not be the most convenient option to all people would go there for fun and rental service wants to keep you safe and insure their vehicle against any potential damage.
Renting A Car Under 25 In California
If you disclose your age, it is likely to be scrutinized and will play a part in getting insurance. Typically, if someone is 21 or older, there is an increased risk of damages, so companies have to consider this. Be honest about any parking tickets or DUI charges so that the company can confirm this information when looking for insurance. Use your own situation and avoid being judged unfairly because you are more mature and have more experience with cars.
To rent a car in California, the renter must present themselves professionally. If you are not professional, the service team might be suspicious about your intent and might decline your business.
Try negotiating with a rental agency and offer to pay a higher surcharge. Understand something clear and simple: you’re dealing with a business. There are no rules stated that you have to bribe them. The rental agency is an easy target for negotiation because they may not have met the legal requirements, which cause them to charge more or less.
You can find information on rental car agency policies websites. And by requesting these documents and reviewing reviewing them, you show the company that you are intelligent, but it also gives you the information about age group requirements. For some policies, another person in your group needs to be over a certain age. If this is a concern for you, ask about age limit for renting cars and make your decision from there.
There are a number of car rental companies to choose from. If one company turns you down, move on to the next and you will be guaranteed a good, safe vehicle for your trip. Return the car clean and undamaged and this will set a good record for future rentals. Enjoy your stay in California!
What you’ll be asked when renting a car
Care rental companies will ask you if you have a full-time job. It is all fine and good to answer with a simple “yes”, however you should be truthful regarding your occupation. Why? Because if the company has trustworthy business accounts with specific car rental agencies, you will save yourself the fees that are attached to renting with a service provider.
The last step to renting a car is to fill out background checks. This is not as in depth as one might expect since many jobs require them, but it ensures that the car rental agency knows that you are permitted to rent from them.
If you are 21-years-old, statistically there is a chance you might be inspected for DUI or vehicle damage. It might be best to prepare yourself before renting out a car. You should be upfront about having no past reckless driving history with the rental company so that they can confirm this information. They will most likely agree to rent you a car if you are upfront and present no history of reckless driving.
Renting a car in California can be done with one person who is at least 21 years old. Present yourself professionally to the company, as it is only their job and nothing more. If you clear all the stages, you can move on to the next step of renting a car.
Try negotiating with a rental company, and you may be able to come to an agreement with a surcharge. It will not be unreasonable. Remember that the company is just trying to make a profit. In California, it seems companies take into account the trust of their customers more often than in any other state but there are good reasons for this that have little to do with you as an individual.
Navigating California Cities
When considering a car rental in California, it’s important to assess your needs based on your destination. For instance, should you rent a car in Los Angeles? With the city’s expansive size and infamous traffic, public transportation or ride-sharing might be a more practical option. However, for those keen on driving down the scenic Pacific Coast Highway or visiting outlying attractions, a rental car is definitely a good idea.
On the other hand, San Jose, being the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a wide range of public transit options. But having a rental car will give you the freedom to explore the Bay Area and beyond at your own pace.
A Side Note: Car Rental For Tourists
Before proceeding, it’s important to address a common question: Can a tourist rent a car in the USA? The answer is a resounding yes. As long as you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and meet the rental company’s age requirement, you can rent a car. However, it’s recommended to carry an International Driving Permit alongside your domestic license, especially if your original license is not in English.
The Allure of the Open Road: Popular Routes
Part of the appeal of renting a car in California is the opportunity to embark on some of the most scenic drives the US has to offer. There’s nothing like the freedom of the open road, and California has routes that cater to every preference.
Whether it’s the coastal journey from Los Angeles to San Diego or the iconic trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, having your own set of wheels allows you to set the pace, make impromptu stops, and soak in the breathtaking views.
A detour from San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park offers a stark contrast from coastal landscapes to desert vistas, while the route from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe presents the perfect mix of city, coast, and mountain scenery. A rental car in these instances is not just a convenience; it’s a key to unlocking these unforgettable experiences.
In Conclusion
It’s always best to check with the company before making any assumptions when asking how old to rent a car in California. Most companies require that people are between 25 and 75 years old, which is why it’s important to plan ahead and know what to ask in order to get the best service.