What to expect when you rent from Hertz in Los Angeles

Hertz operates rental locations across Los Angeles, with the main hub at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and additional branches in downtown, Santa Monica, Long Beach, and other neighborhoods. When you rent from Hertz, you'll pick up a car at your chosen location, drive it for your trip, and return it to the same location or a different one if you arrange a one-way rental. The rental agreement locks in your daily rate, mileage terms (usually unlimited), and insurance options at the time of booking.

Hertz requires a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance before you can take a car. The rental period starts when you sign the agreement and take possession of the vehicle, and ends when you return it. You pay for the rental upfront or at pickup, depending on your booking method, plus any add-ons like additional drivers, GPS, or damage waiver coverage.

Key Takeaways

  • Hertz has multiple Los Angeles locations, with LAX being the largest, and you can return a rental to a different location for a one-way fee.
  • You need a valid driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance to rent; some locations may ask for an international license if yours is from outside the US.
  • Daily rates vary by car type, season, and how far in advance you book, so comparing prices across a few days can save money.
  • Damage waivers and additional driver fees are optional but add to your total cost, and your personal auto insurance may already cover rental cars.
  • Return the car on time and in the condition you received it to avoid late fees and damage charges that appear on your credit card days after you return it.

Hertz locations in Los Angeles and how to choose one

The LAX location (1900 East Mariposa Avenue) is open 24 hours and handles the most traffic, so expect longer lines during peak travel times. If you're flying in, this is the most convenient pickup point, though you may pay a premium for the convenience. Downtown Los Angeles (550 South Hope Street) and Santa Monica (1717 Ocean Park Boulevard) are open during standard business hours and serve locals and visitors who don't need airport access.

Long Beach (2640 North Lakewood Boulevard) and Burbank (2500 North Olive Avenue) are alternatives if you're staying in those areas. One-way rentals between locations carry a fee that varies by distance and car type—returning to LAX from Santa Monica, for example, typically costs $15 to $30 extra, though this can be higher during peak season. Check the Hertz website or call ahead to confirm hours and current fees before you book.

Documents you need to bring and what they verify

Your valid driver's license is the primary document Hertz checks. If your license is from outside the United States, bring your passport as well; some locations ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country license, though this is not always required. Hertz staff will verify your license is current and matches the name on your credit card and rental agreement.

Proof of insurance is mandatory. This can be your personal auto insurance card, a letter from your insurer, or a screenshot of your policy showing coverage for rental vehicles. If you don't have personal coverage, Hertz offers a damage waiver (called Loss Damage Waiver or LDW) that you can purchase at pickup; this typically costs $15 to $30 per day depending on the car type. Your credit card may also provide rental coverage if you charge the rental to that card—check with your card issuer before you book to know what's covered.

How daily rates work and what affects the price

Hertz quotes a daily rate that covers the car rental for a 24-hour period. Rates for economy cars in Los Angeles typically range from $35 to $70 per day during off-peak periods, and $60 to $120 per day during summer or holiday travel. Larger vehicles like SUVs and vans cost more—often $80 to $150 per day or higher. These are estimates; your actual rate depends on the specific dates, how far ahead you book, and current demand.

Booking further in advance usually locks in a lower rate, while booking a few days before your trip often costs more. Weekend rentals are typically more expensive than weekday rentals. Mileage is usually unlimited on Hertz rentals in Los Angeles, so you won't pay per mile. However, read the terms of your specific reservation—some promotional rates may have mileage caps or other restrictions.

Taxes and fees are added to your daily rate. California sales tax (8.625% in Los Angeles County) applies, plus a Los Angeles airport concession recovery fee if you rent at LAX (currently around 10% of the rental rate). These fees can add 20% or more to your quoted price, so factor them into your budget.

Optional add-ons and what they cost

Additional drivers cost $13 to $15 per person per day if you want someone else to be authorized to drive the car. GPS rental is around $15 per day if your phone doesn't have navigation or you prefer not to use data. Fuel options include prepaying for a full tank (usually $50 to $70 depending on the car) so you can return it empty without a refill charge, or paying Hertz's pump price if you return it with fuel in the tank—Hertz's per-gallon rate is typically higher than local gas stations.

The Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or Damage Waiver costs $15 to $30 per day and removes your liability for collision damage, theft, or vandalism. Without it, you're responsible for repairs up to the car's value. Check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental damage before you buy this; many policies do, which makes the daily fee unnecessary.

How to book and what happens at pickup

You can book through the Hertz website (hertz.com), by phone (1-800-654-3131), or through third-party booking sites like Kayak or Expedia. Booking directly through Hertz often gives you access to their loyalty program discounts if you're a member. When you book, you'll select your pickup location, dates, car type, and any add-ons. You'll pay a deposit (usually the full rental cost) with your credit card at booking, though some reservations allow you to pay at pickup.

At pickup, arrive 15 to 30 minutes early. Bring your driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance. The agent will verify your information, show you the car's condition (note any existing damage on the agreement), explain the fuel policy, and answer questions about the rental terms. You'll sign the agreement, receive your keys, and take photos or video of the car's exterior and interior if you want documentation of its condition. The rental period starts when you leave the lot.

Return procedures and how to avoid extra charges

Return the car to your chosen location during business hours on your rental end date. If you rented at LAX, you can return 24 hours a day. For other locations, returning after hours may incur a late fee (typically $25 to $50) even if you're only a few minutes over. Fill the tank before you return it unless you prepaid for fuel; Hertz charges a refueling fee (around $10 to $15) plus their per-gallon rate if you return it with less than a full tank.

The agent will inspect the car for damage, check the mileage, and compare the car's condition to the pickup agreement. If there's new damage you didn't report, you'll be charged for repairs. These charges appear on your credit card days or weeks after you return the car, so keep your rental agreement and take photos at pickup to dispute any charges you believe are unfair. Return the car clean and in the condition you received it to avoid additional cleaning fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car if I'm under 25?

Yes, but Hertz charges an underage driver fee (typically $25 per day) for drivers under 25. You still need a valid driver's license and credit card. Some car types may not be available to drivers under 25, so check your reservation details.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns are charged at the daily rate for each additional 24-hour period or partial day. If you return the car a few hours late, you may be charged a full extra day. Call the location as soon as you realize you'll be late; some agents may waive a small overage if you notify them in advance.

Can I change my reservation after I book?

Yes. You can modify your pickup or return date, location, or car type through the Hertz website or by calling 1-800-654-3131. Changes may result in a price difference; if the new rate is lower, you'll receive a credit, and if it's higher, you'll pay the difference.

What if the car breaks down during my rental?

Call Hertz roadside information when ready at the number on your rental agreement. Hertz will arrange a tow or replacement vehicle at no cost to you. Keep all receipts and documentation of the breakdown for your records.

Is my personal auto insurance enough to cover a rental car?

Many personal auto insurance policies cover rental cars, but coverage limits and deductibles vary. Contact your insurer before you rent to confirm what's covered. If your policy doesn't cover rentals, or if your deductible is high, Hertz's damage waiver may be worth the daily cost.