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California Car Hire – Drive the Golden State Your Way 🌞

From the surf beaches of Los Angeles to the vineyards of Napa Valley and the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, California is a state built for road trips. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore iconic cities, national parks, and one of the most scenic coastlines in the world. With Rhino Car Hire, booking your California rental is quick, affordable, and stress-free.


Why Book Car Hire in California with Rhino?

  • Statewide coverage – rentals available in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and smaller cities across California.

  • Wide choice of vehicles – economy cars, family SUVs, minivans, convertibles, and premium models.

  • Best price guarantee – compare trusted suppliers to secure the lowest California rates.

  • Flexible booking – free amendments and fair cancellation policies.

  • 24/7 support – roadside assistance and booking help whenever you need it.

    Driving in California

  • Within cities: LA traffic is notorious, while San Francisco has steep hills and limited parking.

  • Highways: Interstates and scenic routes are well maintained, but can be busy at peak times.

  • Tolls: Some bridges and express lanes are tolled electronically.


  • Best Road Trips in California

  • Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1): San Francisco to Los Angeles via Big Sur – one of the world’s most famous drives.

  • Yosemite & Sierra Nevada: From San Francisco to Yosemite Valley, giant sequoias, and mountain passes.

  • Desert loop: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and Death Valley.

  • Northern California Coast: Explore redwood forests and rugged Pacific cliffs.

  • Wine country drive: San Francisco to Napa and Sonoma’s vineyards.

  •  
  • Speed limits: 25–35 mph in cities, 65–70 mph on highways.

  • Weather: Conditions vary – snow in the Sierras in winter, desert heat in summer. 

    California Car Hire FAQs

    Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in California?
    Not if your licence is in English. If not, an IDP is recommended.

    What’s the minimum age to hire a car in California?
    Most suppliers require drivers to be 21+, though luxury cars and some SUVs may require 25+. Under 25s usually pay a surcharge.

    How much does car hire in California cost?
    Economy rentals typically start from $40 per day if booked early. Convertibles and SUVs are more expensive in peak summer.

    Can I take my California rental to other states?
    Yes – most rentals allow interstate travel, but confirm with your supplier.

    Are child seats required in California?
    Yes – mandatory for children under 8 years old. Available as an add-on when booking.

    Is unlimited mileage included?
    Most California rentals include unlimited mileage – always check your booking terms.


    Book Your California Car Hire Today

    Whether you’re planning a Pacific Coast road trip, a family holiday to Disneyland, or an escape to the Sierra Nevada mountains, Rhino Car Hire makes finding the perfect California rental car simple and affordable.

    Book online today and enjoy the freedom of the Golden State at your own pace.


Cheapest car hire in California

Key Highlights for Car Hire at California: Making the Most of Your Journey.

  • Iconic drives – cruise Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles for epic coastal views.

  • City adventures – explore Hollywood in LA, Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, and San Diego’s beaches.

  • National parks – drive to Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, or Death Valley.

  • Wine country – Napa and Sonoma are within easy reach from San Francisco.

  • Family road trips – spacious SUVs and minivans with child seats and GPS available.

Compare car rental agents in California

Rental Agent
Locations
Rating (/10)
Customer Reviews
Mini (€/day)
Compact (€/day)
Intermediate (€/day)
Standard (€/day)
 National
25
9.1/10
4,072
€ 28.89
€ 35.70
€ 33.56
€ 37.26
 Alamo
22
9.1/10
16,489
€ 27.34
€ 34.46
€ 35.76
€ 32.39
 Enterprise
16
9.1/10
7,780
€ 35.13
€ 32.99
€ 36.70
 Sixt
14
8.8/10
5,193
€ 57.96
€ 28.92
€ 30.30
€ 31.43
 Hertz
234
8.5/10
10,621
€ 27.37
€ 27.80
€ 30.79
 Thrifty
13
8.3/10
8,523
€ 71.97
€ 27.26
€ 27.97
€ 27.42
 Dollar
15
8.3/10
7,443
€ 82.70
€ 27.26
€ 26.69
€ 27.42
 Avis
151
8.1/10
133,158
€ 27.70
€ 28.13
€ 30.41
 Budget
129
8.1/10
415,640
€ 27.70
€ 27.97
€ 29.42

Did You Know? – California

  • California produces over 90% of US wine.

  • The state is home to both the highest point (Mt. Whitney) and lowest point (Death Valley) in the contiguous US.

  • If California were a country, it would have the 5th largest economy in the world.

  • The Hollywood sign originally read “Hollywoodland”.