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Explore the Road from New York to Los Angeles

Discover the stunning Americas on your one-way rental adventure!

Can I rent a car from New York to Los Angeles?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from New York to Los Angeles. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s).

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 80. Young drivers aged 18-20 incur a fee of US$ 84.00 per day, while those aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 25.00-35.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet or Original Driver's License in a non-Roman alphabet accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).

    Notes: Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 80. Young drivers aged 18-20 incur a fee of US$ 84.00 per day, while those aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 25.00-35.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from New York to Los Angeles cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 160/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 175/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 160-US$ 1,694US$ 0-US$ 1,729US$ 480-US$ 1,887Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 510-US$ 1,694US$ 300-US$ 1,729US$ 1,887Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 175-US$ 1,807US$ 0-US$ 1,729US$ 523-US$ 1,981Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 175-US$ 1,736US$ 0-US$ 1,729US$ 523-US$ 1,972Large groups, long drivers

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way Fee: Check if a fee is applied for returning the car to a different location.
  • Cross-border Restrictions: Ensure your route complies with car rental policies, especially for multi-state or border crossings.
  • Car Availability: Certain cars might not be available for one-way rentals; confirm fleet availability in advance.
  • Flexible Dates: Planning your rental with flexible dates can sometimes save costs and improve availability.
  • Refueling Policies: Understand the fuel policy of your rental to avoid unexpected refueling charges at drop-off.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Ahead: Book your one-way rental early to secure the best rates and availability.
  • Route Optimization: Choose scenic routes to enjoy your journey and plan stops at interesting places.
  • Fuel Planning: Plan gas station stops on your route to avoid running into delays or issues on remote roads.
  • Optimal Rental Period: Selecting the right rental period to fit your schedule helps save on costs and ensures better experiences.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Carry a properly charged phone and roadside assistance contacts.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof at the drop-off location.

Utilize local gas stations near the drop-off point for convenience and savings.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed of around 65 mph for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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New York Parking

Parking in New York can cost between $10 to $50 per day depending on the location.

Street parking is limited but available in some areas with time restrictions.

Consider using parking garages for secure and convenient parking.

Los Angeles Parking

Parking in Los Angeles ranges from $5 to $20 per day in most areas.

Street parking is available but check for time limits and permit requirements.

Utilize parking structures near busy areas for convenience.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero: Reserve parking spots in advance.

ParkWhiz: Find and book parking near your destination.

BestParking: Compare parking rates and locations.

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Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes toll roads such as the George Washington Bridge ($16) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (variable fees).

Toll charges vary based on the vehicle type and payment method.

Utilize express lanes where available to save time.

Toll Payment Options

Cash payments are accepted at most toll booths.

Electronic toll collection systems like FasTrak and E-ZPass are widely supported.

Credit card payments are available at select toll points.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes for New York to Los Angeles Drive:
Route 66
Historic Route 40 hours

The classic Route 66 drive, known as the 'Main Street of America,' takes travelers through iconic Americana landmarks.

Chicago , St. Louis , Oklahoma City , Albuquerque
I-80 and I-15
Interstate 42 hours

A direct interstate route passing through major urban centers and scenic spots.

Cleveland , Denver , Las Vegas
The Southern Route (I-40)
Adventure Route 45 hours

Offers warmer climates and passes attractive cities and activities.

Nashville , Memphis , Amarillo , Flagstaff
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Use GPS and maps to determine the most suitable route for your voyage.

Fuel Stops: Plan gas stops strategically, especially when traversing desert or remote areas.

Lodging Arrangements: Book accommodations in advance to ensure better pricing and availability.

Car Rental Insurance: Understand optional insurances and select coverage that guards against unexpected costs.

Meal Planning: Pack snacks and plan stops for dining at notable locations.

Consider Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast for the areas you'll be traveling through to prepare appropriately.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choose a car rental company that offers flexible vehicles, competitive pricing, and one-way rental options for your route from New York to Los Angeles.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$Wide selection of sedans, SUVs, and luxury vehiclesExtensive network across major cities in the U.S. 24/7 customer support , Frequent flyer miles partnerships , GPS navigation availability
Enterprise$$$Diverse options including eco-friendly carsTop ratings for branch accessibility nationwide Award-winning customer service , Flexible rental terms , Convenient after-hours drop-off
Avis$$Innovative models and premium cars availableConvenient locations nationwide including airports Streamlined mobile app and booking process , Loyalty rewards for frequent renters
Budget$Efficient and affordable vehiclesMany neighborhood locations across the U.S. Cost-effective pricing plans , Discounts for online reservations , Unlimited mileage plans
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Car Centers at Journey Points

Rental Center in New York:

Located at major airports, including JFK and LaGuardia

Shuttle Service for Rental Centers:

Complimentary shuttle service every 15 minutes to nearby parking lots or rental centers

Operating Hours:

Most centers open 24/7 or during extended hours for traveler convenience

Pricing and Fees:

One-way rentals involve additional fees; inquire at booking for an estimate

Pro Tips for John F. Kennedy Intl Airport(JFK) Car Rentals

Book well in advance to secure your ideal vehicle type and enjoy possible discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up the car in one location, such as New York, and drop it off in another, such as Los Angeles, without having to return it to the starting location.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals?

Yes, car rental companies often charge a one-way fee for the convenience of dropping the car off at a different location. This fee varies by company and distance.

What documents do I need for a one-way rental?

You will typically require a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and an additional form of identification such as a passport or ID card.

Can I select a specific type of car for the rental?

Yes, most car rental companies offer a variety of vehicles to choose from, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. Availability may vary based on the location.

How do I return the car in Los Angeles?

Car rental return locations are usually at or near major airports or downtown areas. You need to follow the rental company’s instructions, which often include refueling the car and dropping it off in a designated area.

Ready to Book Your New York to Los Angeles Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes