Where to rent and what the major companies charge

Los Angeles has rental desks at LAX, Long Beach Airport (LGB), Burbank Airport (BUR), and Ontario International (ONT), plus dozens of off-airport locations throughout the city. On-airport rentals cost more — typically 10 to 20 percent higher than off-airport branches — because airports charge concession fees that renters pay through higher daily rates. If you're flying in, check whether a nearby off-airport location is worth the taxi or rideshare cost to reach it.

The major chains operating in Los Angeles are Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, and National. Daily rates for a compact car range widely depending on demand, season, and how far ahead you book. Summer months (June through August) and holiday periods see rates double or triple compared to January or February. A compact car might rent for $35 to $50 per day in low season but $80 to $150 per day during peak travel times. Luxury or larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) cost proportionally more. Booking 2 to 4 weeks ahead typically locks in better rates than booking the day before.

Key Takeaways

  • Off-airport rental locations in Los Angeles charge 10 to 20 percent less than airport desks because you avoid concession fees.
  • Daily rates for a compact car range from $35 to $50 in slow months but climb to $80 to $150 during summer and holidays.
  • Insurance through the rental company costs $15 to $30 per day; your personal auto policy or credit card may already cover rentals, so check before buying.
  • Los Angeles traffic and parking are significant costs — factor in tolls on the 110 and 405, plus parking fees if you're staying downtown or near the beach.
  • Fuel charges depend on whether you return the car full or accept the rental company's per-gallon rate, which is typically 30 to 50 percent higher than gas station prices.

Insurance and liability coverage you need to understand

Rental companies in California offer collision damage waiver (CDW) and liability coverage as add-ons. CDW typically costs $15 to $30 per day and covers damage to the rental car itself if you're at fault in an accident. Liability coverage (required by law) is sometimes bundled into the base rate but often sold separately for $10 to $20 per day. Before you accept either, call your personal auto insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rental cars — most do, and you'll save money by declining the rental company's coverage.

Credit card companies often provide rental car coverage if you charge the full rental to that card. American Express, Visa Platinum, and Mastercard Black typically include collision and liability protection, though the coverage limits and exclusions vary. Read your card's rental car benefits before you rent, or call the card issuer while you're at the rental desk. If you have neither personal insurance nor credit card coverage, buying the rental company's CDW and liability is necessary to protect yourself financially.

Fuel options and how to avoid overpaying

When you pick up the car, the rental company will ask whether you want to prepay for a full tank or return it full. Prepaying locks in a per-gallon rate that is typically 30 to 50 percent higher than what you'd pay at a gas station. If you return the car with less than a full tank, you forfeit the prepaid fuel. The better choice for most renters is to decline prepay, fill the tank yourself at a gas station before returning the car, and return it full. This costs less unless you're renting for only one day or driving very little.

Los Angeles gas prices vary by neighborhood and brand. Costco gas (if you have a membership) is usually the cheapest option, followed by independent stations. Shell, Chevron, and other major brands cost 20 to 40 cents more per gallon. Plan your return time so you can fill up without rushing — returning on a Sunday evening when many stations have reduced hours can force you to use an expensive pump near the airport.

Driving in Los Angeles: tolls, parking, and traffic costs

Los Angeles freeways include toll roads: the 110 (Harbor Freeway) and 405 (San Diego Freeway) have express lanes that charge per trip based on congestion. Tolls range from $1.50 to $15 per trip depending on time of day and traffic. If you use a toll lane, the rental company will bill you the toll plus an administrative fee (usually $2 to $5 per transaction). Ask at the rental desk whether the car has a transponder or whether tolls will be charged to your credit card on file.

Parking in Los Angeles varies dramatically by location. Street parking in residential neighborhoods is free or costs $2 to $4 per hour. Downtown Los Angeles parking garages charge $8 to $20 per hour or $15 to $40 for all-day parking. Parking near the beach (Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu) costs $10 to $15 per hour or $20 to $50 for the day. If you're staying in one location, ask your hotel whether parking is included — many hotels charge $15 to $35 per night for self-parking. Budget these costs into your rental decision, especially if you're staying multiple days.

Age restrictions and additional driver fees

Renters must be at least 21 years old in California, though most major companies require 25 to avoid a young driver surcharge of $15 to $30 per day. Drivers aged 21 to 24 should expect to pay this fee at most companies; Enterprise sometimes waives it for members of AAA or military. If you're under 25, call ahead to compare which company offers the best rate for your age group.

Adding a second driver costs $10 to $15 per day at most companies, though spouses and domestic partners are sometimes added free. If you're splitting a long drive with someone else, adding them officially is cheaper than switching drivers without notifying the rental company — if an unauthorized driver is in an accident, the insurance claim can be denied.

What to check before you drive away

Before leaving the rental lot, walk around the car with the agent and photograph or video-record any existing damage — dents, scratches, interior stains, or mechanical issues. Point out each one and ask the agent to note it on the contract. Take photos of the odometer reading and fuel gauge. This protects you from being charged for damage you didn't cause when you return the car.

Test the air conditioning, wipers, lights, and brakes before you leave the lot. If anything doesn't work, report it when ready and ask for a replacement car. Once you drive away, the rental company will assume you accepted the car's condition. Check that you have the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench in the trunk, and know where the fuel door release is located.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car in Los Angeles if I have an international driver's license?

Yes, but you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by your home country's automobile association, plus your original license. Most rental companies accept both documents together. Some companies also accept a passport as secondary ID. Call the rental company before you arrive to confirm what documents they need.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late fees vary by company but typically run $25 to $75 for the first hour, then $15 to $30 per additional hour or day. If you're running late, call the rental location as soon as you know — some companies will extend your reservation at the daily rate rather than charging hourly penalties. Returning the car after business hours may result in additional fees if the location is closed.

Do I need to buy a GPS or can I use my phone?

Using your phone with Google Maps or Apple Maps is free and works well in Los Angeles. Rental companies charge $10 to $15 per day for a built-in GPS unit. Unless you're driving in areas with poor cell service, skip the rental GPS and use your phone. Make sure your phone is fully charged and consider bringing a car charger.

What if the car breaks down while I'm driving?

Call the rental company's roadside information number (on your rental agreement) when ready. They'll send a tow truck or arrange a replacement vehicle. You're not responsible for mechanical failures that occur during the rental period. Keep the rental agreement with you at all times so you have the emergency number.

Can I take the rental car outside Los Angeles County?

Most companies allow travel throughout California and into Nevada or Arizona without extra fees, but crossing state lines or leaving the western United States may require permission and additional insurance. Ask at the rental desk about your specific travel plans. Some companies charge a drop-off fee if you return the car to a different location than where you rented it.