California Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Compare rent a car rates in California from popular car rental companies

Photo by Jay Sothoron
I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings, and package your flight, hotel, and car to save even more.

Members save 10% more on select hotels, cars and activities. Sign up.Opens in a new window

Enjoy maximum flexibility with penalty-free cancellation on most car rentals.

Explore California with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Standard Elite SUV

GMC Acadia or similar
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
GMC Acadia

AU$120

total
found 1 day ago
Standard Elite SUV GMC Acadia
Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Special

Manager Special EV or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manager Special EV

AU$116

total
found 1 day ago
Special Manager Special EV
Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Midsize Elite

Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus

AU$120

total
found 1 day ago
Midsize Elite Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus
Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Premium Special

Premium, Luxury or Extraordinary vehicle or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Premium, Luxury or Extraordinary vehicle

AU$137

total
found 1 day ago
Premium Special Premium, Luxury or Extraordinary vehicle
Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Luxury

Genesis G70 or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Genesis G70

AU$152

total
found 1 day ago
Luxury Genesis G70
Mon., 11 Aug. to Tue., 12 Aug.

Luxury Elite

BMW 5 Series or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
BMW 5 Series

AU$283

total
found 1 day ago
Luxury Elite BMW 5 Series

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car hire in California
View all cars

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in California?
The lowest daily price for a rental car in California within the past seven days was AU$116. With the flexibility of having your own vehicle, it's easy to cruise to whichever landmarks are calling your name.
What happens if I need to cancel my California car reservation?
We have good news! You should get a complete refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours before pickup. Your itinerary contains details about this, as does our Customer Service Portal. Not all prepaid bookings qualify for a refund though, so you may want to read through your home agreement.
What types of cars can I rent in California?
Not too small yet not too big, compact vehicles are the number one choice for many visitors to California. Offering terrific gas mileage and easy handling and parking, they're ideal for dashing around the city. A compact is slightly roomier than an economy vehicle, which means you can cruise around in a little more comfort and style. Want something bigger? Browse our intermediate, standard or full-size range.
Where can I go on a road trip from California?
There are so many things to do in California, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Book a set of wheels and you can explore the surrounding region at your own pace. Add these awesome drives to your to-do list:

  • Washington is 80 kilometres from California. Notable tourist attractions like White House deserve to be high on your must-see list here.
  • Around 113 kilometres away, Baltimore is also a hit with wanderers. Make sure you get to National Aquarium in Baltimore while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love visiting this colourful city.
  • Head to Atlantic City Beach to feel grounded in nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just relax in the fresh air. From California, it's approximately 209 kilometres away.

Why should I rent a California car with Expedia?
There are savings for the savvy traveller with Expedia. Whether you're looking for something that'll fit the entire crew or just the two of you, compare the deals from the car rental companies in California. Our member exclusive offers and discounts will help you score the lowest price possible. Combine your car with your hotel and flights to save even more. After things to do in California? Add some experiences to your holiday package later on!
How do I find the best car rental deals in California with Expedia?
It's easy to track down an incredible deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your ride, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from all the popular providers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your California car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in California?
You need to be at least 21 to pick up the keys to a rental car in California. Take note that young drivers may only be able to rent from a few car categories, such as compact and economy. Higher age limits usually apply for larger and luxury vehicles. Additionally, many companies will charge a fee for young renters. Read through the rules before hitting the book button and factor any extra fees into your budget.
What do you need to rent a car in California?
The main requirements are a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of other coverage if you opt out. We recommend checking with your supplier to avoid any problems.
What is the cheapest car rental in California?
With car rental rates starting from just AU$116 and AU$120 a day in California within the past seven days, you'll be driving away with your own incredible deal before long. These rates were available on Expedia, with a holiday home starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in California?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a holiday home car mid-holiday. Go to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your information and secure a set of wheels that's all yours for the length of your break.
Where can I find a California car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to investigate the age policy of the California holiday home suppliers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years of age, be aware that some will charge extra costs. It's better to know this before arriving at the desk so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Every holiday home car company has its own rules for younger drivers, so be sure to do your research.
Can I drive in California with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in the U.S, you might need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before renting a car. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S., know that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card that was used to rent the vehicle must also match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to finalize your car rental. Some additional requirements for renting a car in the U.S. Are:

  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or older in many states in order to rent a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as the car rental website before you book to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Read the fine print before you get behind the wheel to avoid unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the U.S, you usually can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive on ferries or traverse off-road areas with your car rental. Please read all the rules and regulations before you book!

Information on Car Rentals

 
Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
 
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
 
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
AU$116
 
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$120
 
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$137
 
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation