1. What is the minimum age to rent a car in California?

The minimum age to rent a car in California is 18 years old.

2. What documents are needed to rent a car in California?

In California, the primary documents needed to rent a car are a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a credit or debit card. The rental car agency may also require a second form of identification, such as a passport or Social Security number. In some cases, an international driver’s license may be required.

3. Are there additional fees associated with car rentals in California?

Yes, there are additional fees associated with car rentals in California. These include taxes, airport fees, and surcharges. Additionally, some companies may charge an underage fee for drivers under the age of 25 or a one-way drop-off fee if you return the car to a different location than where you picked it up.

4. Is there a minimum rental period for car rentals in California?

Yes, the minimum rental period for car rentals in California is typically one day. However, some rental companies may offer short-term rentals for as little as an hour.

5. Are there any additional insurance requirements to rent a car in California?

Yes, there are additional insurance requirements to rent a car in California. All rental car companies have minimum liability insurance requirements, and in some cases, additional coverage such as collision damage waiver, personal accident insurance, and personal effects coverage. Additionally, if you plan to drive in Mexico, you may need to purchase additional Mexican liability insurance.

6. Does California require drivers to have proof of insurance when renting a car?

Yes, California requires drivers to have proof of insurance when renting a car.

7. Does California require special driver’s license requirements for foreign nationals?

Yes, California requires foreign nationals to provide proof of legal presence in the United States along with other documents. Non-citizens must apply for an AB 60 driver’s license, which is a special license for those unable to provide evidence of legal status. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also requires non-citizens to pass the written, vision and driving tests.

8. Are there any additional taxes or fees associated with renting a car in California?

Yes, rental car companies in California must collect a state-mandated airport concession recovery fee from customers. This fee is not a tax and is charged to help cover the cost of leasing counter space at airports. The fee varies by airport and can be up to 11% of the total cost of the rental. Additionally, rental car companies might also charge an additional fee for underage drivers between the ages of 21-24.

9. Does California impose extra fees for drivers under the age of 25 renting a car?

Yes, California does impose additional fees for drivers under the age of 25 renting a car. These fees vary depending on the rental company and can range from $25 to $35 per day.

10. Is an international driver’s license required to rent a car in California?

No, an international driver’s license is not required to rent a car in California. However, the rental company may require a valid driver’s license from your home country, and you will need to provide proof of insurance as well.

11. What type of vehicles can be rented in California?

In California, you can rent cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, minivans, luxury vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles.

12. Is a credit card required to rent a car in California?

No, a credit card is not required to rent a car in California, although it may be necessary to provide a form of payment. Debit cards, prepaid cards, and cash deposits may also be accepted.

13. What type of identification is required to rent a car in California?

In California, drivers must present a valid driver’s license and a major credit card. Depending on the rental company, an additional form of ID may be required.

14. Is an additional driver allowed to rent a car in California?

Yes, additional drivers are allowed to rent a car in California. All additional drivers must meet the same criteria as the primary renter and must be present during the rental process. They must also provide a valid driver’s license and sign the rental agreement. Fees may apply.

15. Does California allow one-way rentals of cars?

Yes, most major car rental companies in California offer one-way rentals.

16. Does the driver’s license need to be valid for the entirety of the rental period in California?

Yes, the driver’s license must be valid for the entire rental period in California.

17. How long does one have to wait until they are able to rent a vehicle after getting a driver’s license in California?

In California, you must be at least 18 years old to rent a vehicle. You must also provide a valid driver’s license with a record of at least one year of driving experience.

18. Is an international license required if the driver has a valid license from another country and wishes to drive a rental vehicle in California?

Yes, an international license is required if the driver has a valid license from another country and wishes to drive a rental vehicle in California.

19. Does California require drivers to have extra insurance coverage for rental vehicles?

Yes, California requires drivers to have both liability insurance and physical damage coverage for any rental vehicle. Drivers must provide proof of insurance to the rental car company.

20. Are there extra fees for renting vehicles with automatic transmission in California?

Yes, some rental companies may charge extra fees for renting vehicles with automatic transmission in California.