Hiring a car in California is the best way to explore the Golden State. From iconic cities and national parks to world-famous coastal highways, California is built for driving. With Rhino Car Hire, you can compare cheap car hire in California, book with transparent pricing, and choose flexible pick-up and drop-off locations across the state.
Whether you’re planning a Pacific Coast Highway road trip, a family holiday, or a one-way journey between cities, California car hire gives you total freedom.
Why Hire a Car in California?
California is vast, diverse, and not designed for public transport travel between destinations. Hiring a car allows you to:
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Travel easily between major cities and regions
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Explore national parks and coastal areas at your own pace
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Plan one-way road trips without backtracking
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Carry luggage comfortably on longer journeys
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Avoid expensive internal flights and limited rail routes
For most visitors, car hire is essential to seeing California properly.
Why Choose Rhino Car Hire in California?
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Statewide Coverage – car hire available across California
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Wide Vehicle Choice – economy cars, SUVs, minivans, convertibles and premium models
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Clear Pricing – no hidden fees, taxes shown upfront
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One-Way Rentals – ideal for California road trips
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Flexible Bookings – daily, weekly and long-term options
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24/7 Support – roadside assistance and customer care
Popular California Car Hire Locations
You can pick up and drop off rental cars across the state, including:
This flexibility makes California ideal for one-way and multi-city travel.
Best Road Trips in California
Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
San Francisco → Los Angeles
Clifftop ocean views, Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Barbara and coastal towns. One of the world’s most scenic drives and one of the most popular one-way car hire routes in the USA.
Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada
San Francisco → Yosemite National Park
Giant sequoias, granite cliffs and alpine scenery. Seasonal conditions apply in winter.
Southern California Desert Loop
Los Angeles → Joshua Tree → Palm Springs → Death Valley
A dramatic contrast of landscapes, perfect for a short road trip.
Northern California Coast
San Francisco → Redwood National Parks
Quiet coastal roads, forests and rugged Pacific scenery.
Wine Country
San Francisco → Napa & Sonoma
Vineyards, tasting rooms and countryside drives just an hour from the city.
One-Way Car Hire in California
One-way car hire is extremely popular in California and often better value than returning to your starting point.
Popular one-way routes include:
Any one-way drop-off fees are clearly included in your quote before booking.
Driving in California – What to Know
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Drive on the right-hand side
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Speed limits are posted in miles per hour
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Cities: 25–35 mph
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Highways: 65–70 mph
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Many bridges and express lanes use electronic tolling
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Traffic can be heavy in major cities during peak hours
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Weather varies widely: coastal fog, desert heat, mountain snow
California Car Hire FAQs
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If your licence is in English, an IDP is not required. Otherwise, one is recommended.
What’s the minimum age to hire a car in California?
Most suppliers require drivers to be 21+. Some vehicles require drivers to be 25+. Under-25s usually pay a surcharge.
Can I drive my California rental to other states?
Yes. Interstate travel is usually permitted — check your rental terms.
Are child seats required?
Yes. Child seats are mandatory for children under 8 years old and can be added during booking.
Is unlimited mileage included?
Most California rentals include unlimited mileage — always check your booking details.
Book Your California Car Hire Today
Compare deals, book in minutes, and enjoy flexible, affordable car hire across California with Rhino Car Hire. Whether you’re planning a coastal road trip, a one-way journey between cities, or a family holiday, your California adventure starts here.