Car Hire in California
Transparent car rental in the Golden State with Excess Protection Included
- Free Cancellation
- Excess Protection
- 24/7 Support
- Fair Fuel Policy
What our customers say
Great service at SFO airport from Yousef. We upgraded the size of our car without any fuss. Also very quick efficient return at Burbank airport
Elizabeth - San Francisco Airport, 4 months ago
Why book with Zest in California?
We know that renting a car in the USA can be confusing. We are here to change that with a fresh, honest approach.
Which? Recommended Provider
We are the one and only Which? Recommended Car Hire Broker, an accolade we have earned every year since 2017. Fresh, Honest and Transparent!
Excess Protection Included
We don't hide costs. Excess Protection is included in every quote, so you are covered from the moment you book. No hard sell at the desk.
UK-Based Support
Need help? Our UK-based team is here for you 24/7. If you have an issue at the rental desk, we will speak to the provider directly to sort it out.
Which car rental company should I book with in California?
We focus on quality, not quantity. In California, we partner with trusted specialists like Alamo and National, alongside major international brands.
We actively monitor service levels at Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) to ensure a smooth experience. If a provider's standards drop, we remove them from our site.
Book with Zest Car Rental in California
We take a fresh, honest approach to car hire. Our booking process is simple: clear pricing, no hidden costs, and no small print to sweat over. We want you to relax and look forward to your holiday, not worry about the logistics.
Unlock the real California
California is the home of the classic road trip. While cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are major hubs, the true magic of the "Golden State" is found on the coast. Driving Highway 1 allows you to visit Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, two sophisticated coastal towns famous for their art galleries, fairytale architecture, and the stunning "17-Mile Drive." Further south lies Santa Barbara, known as the "American Riviera." With its Spanish colonial architecture and walkable waterfront, it offers a relaxed, upscale alternative to the busy city streets of LA.
Essential Driving Tips for California
California driving can be fast-paced, especially around major cities.
Right on Red: Unless a sign says otherwise, you are generally permitted to turn right at a red light if the way is clear, after coming to a complete stop.
Carpool Lanes: Look out for "HOV" (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes on freeways, marked with a diamond symbol. These are reserved for cars with 2 or more people. Using them solo can result in a fine.
Our Fleet in California
At Zest Car Rental, we offer a wide range of vehicles across California to suit every type of traveller. From economical city cars perfect for couples, to spacious SUVs and people carriers ideal for family road trips, we have the perfect car for your journey.
One Way Rentals in California
You can pick up your car at San Francisco Airport and drop it off at Los Angeles or San Diego. One-way rentals are perfect for driving the Pacific Coast Highway without having to loop back.
Please note that each provider sets their own rules for one-way rentals, and some may apply a mandatory local fee. This is clearly shown during the booking process.
Driver Age Requirements in California
Can I rent a car in California if I am under 25?
Yes. However, nearly all providers apply a Young Driver Surcharge and may restrict access to certain vehicle categories.
Can I rent a car in California if I am over 70?
Yes. California is very welcoming to senior drivers. Most major providers like Alamo and National have no upper age limit, provided you hold a valid licence.
What is the best time of year to visit California?
California is a year-round destination, but the best time for a road trip is during the shoulder seasons of September to October or April to May. These months offer warm, clear weather with less coastal fog (often called "June Gloom") and fewer crowds at popular national parks and beaches.
Book nowPlaces to hire in USA
- Anaheim
- Anaheim – Paradise Pier Hotel
- Anaheim Marriott HLE
- Burbank Airport (BUR)
- Fresno Yosemite Airport (FAT)
- Irvine
- John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Long Beach Airport (LGB)
- Los Angeles
- Los Angeles Airport (LAX)
- Los Angeles Union Station
- Oakland Airport (OAK)
- Ontario Airport (ONT)
- Palm Springs Airport (PSP)
- Sacramento Airport (SMF)
- San Diego Airport (SAN)
- San Francisco Airport (SFO)
- San Francisco – Fisherman’s Wharf
- San Francisco – Moscone Center
- San Francisco – Union Square
- San Francisco Downtown
- San Jose Airport (SJC)
- Santa Ana
- Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)
Average customer rating for car hire in California
(4.7 out of 5.00) based on 210 responses to our customer survey.
Popular locations in California
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