Los Angeles Car Rentals

Trip.com is your one-stop travel platform, partnering with over 10,000 cities and more than 1,000 leading car rental companies worldwide, including Hertz, Enterprise, AVIS, Budget, and Sixt. Easily compare rental prices, book the perfect car, and start your journey with just a few clicks. Explore our Los Angeles Car Rental Guide to find the best car for your needs.

Why you need to rent a car when traveling in Los Angeles

Renting a car is the easiest and most flexible way to explore Los Angeles. LA only has buses without a subway and it doesn’t cover all the attractions, such as Disneyland, or Santa Monica. Renting a car enables you to travel on your schedule, especially in a city where traffic is common. Renting a car can also be more affordable than relying on ride-share services, like Uber or Lyft, for long distances. Since LA has great sunshine, driving a car can be more comfortable if the weather is too hot. With a car, you can enjoy LA's iconic spots like Hollywood or Griffith Observatory at your own pace.

How to find Los Angeles car rental deals

When you book your flights or hotels on Trip.com, you can enjoy discounts of up to 25% off on car rentals. Also, first-time users can claim an exclusive 8% off their first rental. Keep an eye on Trip.com once you have a travel plan since we frequently provide limited-time deals during peak travel seasons. And the more you book, the higher tier of membership you will be, which can help save more for every booking. By staying updated, you’ll find the best rental car for your trip at the lowest price.

Driving in the Los Angeles

Driving on the Right: Like the rest of the U.S., Los Angeles drivers stay on the right-hand side of the road. Please pay attention to road signs while driving and follow the local traffic regulations.

Speed Limits: Speed limits in LA vary by area. Urban roads usually have a limit of 25-35 mph, highways range from 55-65 mph, and interstates may go up to 70 mph. Always follow posted signs for accurate speed limits and don't over the speed limit since LA will have strict punishment for this action.

Parking: Parking in Los Angeles can be costly and limited, especially in popular areas like downtown or Hollywood. Use parking apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero to find affordable spots. Free or cheaper parking options are often available outside busy areas, with public transport or ridesharing to complete the journey.

Toll Roads: Los Angeles has fewer toll roads compared to other cities, but some highways, like express lanes, require a toll. Check with your car rental provider about toll transponders and how charges will be handled.

Road Safety and Regulations: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Avoid using your phone unless it's hands-free, and always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

Fueling Up: Gas stations are plentiful in Los Angeles. If your rental agreement requires returning the car with a full tank, fill up near the drop-off location to avoid extra charges.

Child Safety Requirements in Los Angeles

California law requires children under 2 years old to ride in a rear-facing car seat unless their weight over 40 pounds or height over 40 inches. Children aged 2 to 4 should use a forward-facing car seat with a harness. Kids between 4 and 8 years old must ride in a booster seat until they are 4'9" tall. Children aged 8 and older must use a properly fitting seat belt. Non-compliance may lead to fines, so ensure you have the appropriate seat for young passengers when renting a car.

All you'll need when renting a car in Los Angeles

To pick up your rental car, you have to take several documents. A valid passport or other government-issued ID is required. A physical Driver's License is also an important thing to take and the driver's age should be around 21 to 82 years old. The extra fee may happen for too young or too old. A credit card with the driver's name it may require a deposit. And your pick-up voucher which will be provided by Trip.com.

Must-Visit place in Los Angeles

Universal Studios Hollywood: It is one of the famous attraction in California and need just 20 minutes drive from downtown LA. Enjoy the Universal Studios for thrilling rides, shows, and a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood movie-making.

Griffith Observatory: If you love stars and are interested in night landscape in LA. Take a scenic drive to Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city and amazing exhibits about space and science. Free parking is available nearby, though it fills up quickly during peak times.

The Getty Center: It's a 30-minute drive from central LA, and the on-site parking structure makes it easy to visit. Come and explore world-class art collections and architecture at The Getty Center.

Cost-Effective Travel with Google Maps

For traveling in Los Angeles, Google Maps can be an essential tool. It helps to find accurate directions quickly to save time and avoid unnecessary detours. With real-time traffic updates and alternate route suggestions, your Los Angeles trip will become easily and smoothly.

What is the best time to rent a car in Los Angeles

Planning ahead for car rental in Los Angeles. Generally, a week before will appropriate since last-minute will tend to be cheaper but it's risky for sold-out if too rush. For saving money, you can also book early from Trip.com. If any discount or drop of price, you can cancel your booking for free and rebook with cheaper price! Book one a two weeks before your trip can be optimal to save money and get the best car!

Why Choose Trip.com for Car Rental

Flexible Cancellation Policy

On Trip.com, we offer free cancellation options for car rentals in Los Angeles. You can cancel the booking before the scheduled pick-up time. We recommend reserving your preferred car in advance, so if your plans change or you find a better car, you can easily cancel. Even though you are not allowed to change your car type, you can easily cancel the booking and rebook for any option you want. Book the best rental for your trip and enjoy great prices along with the flexibility to cancel.

Car Rental with Insurance

Trip.com offers a one-stop solution for car rentals and insurance to help users easily book both at the same time. Whether you're going on a short trip or need a long-term rental, we provide insurance options to fully protect your journey. For example, the Basic Insurance, it will include Collision Damage Waiver with $3,000 excess provided by the supplier to reduce your financial liability if body work is damaged. Also, it includes Third Party Liability, which covers drivers's liability for injuries and property damage. But it doesn't include the injuries to driver or damage to the rental car. Thus, we recommend you to select the appropriate insurance to enjoy your peaceful trip.

The Best Fuel Policy

We recommend selecting a "Full-to-Full" fuel policy as Trip.com help you save more and easy to return the car. If you pick up the car with a full fuel tank, you must also drop it off with a full fuel tank. You should always remember that when return the car because supplier will charge the fuel cost for the difference in the amount of fuel, and a service fee if you fail to full fuel. We recommend that you keep refueling receipts, and take photos of the fuel gauge when you both pick up and drop off the car. This helps you save on fuel costs during your Los Angeles car rental, which makes your trip cheaper and easier.