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Journey Awaits: San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles

Embrace the freedom and flexibility of a one-way car rental for your unforgettable road trip adventure.

Can I rent a car from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Luis Obispo 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 Norway national photo ID or 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 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 19 and 80. Young drivers aged 19-25 may incur a fee of NOK 130 per day, capped at NOK 1300 for the rental. Alternatively, young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of USD 27.00 per day. Drivers aged 75-80 may have additional requirements, to be confirmed.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements.
    Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version). An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.

    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.

  • 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, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 19 and 80. Young drivers aged 19-25 may incur a fee of NOK 130 per day, capped at NOK 1300 for the rental. Alternatively, young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of USD 27.00 per day. Drivers aged 75-80 may have additional requirements, to be confirmed.
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How much does renting a car from San Luis Obispo 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$ 37/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 39/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 37-US$ 42US$ 0US$ 110-US$ 125Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 42-US$ 54US$ 0US$ 125-US$ 161Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 39-US$ 109US$ 0US$ 117-US$ 326Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 67US$ 0US$ 201Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 149US$ 0US$ 447Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Be aware of potential one-way rental surcharges that may apply. Verify it during the booking process.
  • Route Restrictions: Check if the route permits drop-offs in your destination city. Some companies limit certain regions.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel return policy to avoid surprises—commonly full-to-full tank.
  • Cross-State Regulations: Ensure there are no restrictions or additional fees when crossing state lines.
  • Vehicle Options: Select from a proper vehicle class suitable for your travel distance and comfort needs.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book In Advance: Reserve your one-way rental early to secure availability and better rates.
  • Ensure Low Mileage Allowance: Opt for rentals with ample mileage or unlimited packages to avoid penalties.
  • Choose Peak Season Wisely: Avoid peak travel times for better deals and fewer vehicle constraints.
  • Plan Scenic Stops: Make the most of your travel route by planning enjoyable breaks on the way.
  • Check Assistance Services: Confirm roadside assistance inclusions for a worry-free journey.
  • Verify Additional Drivers: Add extra drivers upfront to share the driving load legally and comfortably.
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
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges.

Keep the receipt as proof of refueling.

Use the recommended fuel type for the vehicle.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price in Los Angeles is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed on highways to conserve fuel.

Ensure tires are properly inflated for optimal fuel efficiency.

Minimize the use of air conditioning when possible.

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San Luis Obispo Parking

Downtown parking is often free for the first hour.

Look for public parking lots near Higuera Street.

Avoid parking in restricted areas to prevent fines.

Los Angeles Parking

Parking garages near LAX offer hourly and daily rates.

Street parking may require permits in residential areas.

Use park-and-ride facilities for convenient access to transit.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero: Reserve parking spots in advance.

ParkWhiz: Find and book parking easily.

LA Express Park: Monitor real-time parking availability.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Scenic and Convenient Routes:
Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
Scenic Route 4 hours 30 minutes

A breathtaking coastal route offering unparalleled ocean views and rugged cliffs.

Morro Bay , Pismo Beach , Santa Barbara , Malibu
US Route 101
Major Highway 4 hours

A well-connected highway passing through notable Californian cities and landmarks.

Atascadero , Santa Maria , Buellton , Ventura
Interstate 5
Direct Route 3 hours 30 minutes

The fastest route between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, mainly used by locals.

Los Banos , Gorman , Santa Clarita
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the Right Vehicle: Consider the type of terrain and passengers when selecting a rental car.

Refuel Smartly: Research fuel stops along your route and refuel before entering stretches with few services.

Time Your Journey: Avoid peak traffic times, especially near urban areas and major attractions.

Understand Pricing: Clarify rental fees, deposits, and return conditions to avoid surprises.

Inspect the Car: Conduct a thorough vehicle check before departure to document its condition.

Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with rental agreements, insurance, and state-specific laws.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right rental company involves evaluating options that provide one-way rental services between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles. Consider factors such as fees, vehicle variety, and branch availability.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$HighExtensive Wide range of vehicle options , Convenient locations in both cities , Competitive daily rates
Hertz$$ModerateExtensive Option for luxury and premium cars , Expedited airport services
Avis$$HighBroad Rewards program for frequent customers , Well-maintained fleet with diverse choices
Budget$ModerateWide Economical rental rates , Easy booking process
QEEQ

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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

Understanding Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most car rental centers operate from 6 AM to Midnight. Verify with your agency for exact timings.

Location and Accessibility:

Rental centers are typically located near major transport hubs in both San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttles are available at main transit points to rental centers in Los Angeles.

Drop-Off Instructions:

Ensure to drop off your vehicle at the designated spot as mentioned in your rental agreement.

Pro Tips for San Luis Obispo Airport(SBP) Car Rentals

Book your one-way car rental in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the simplest way to find a one-way car rental from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles?

To book a one-way car rental from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles, you can visit major rental companies' websites like Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis. Enter your pickup location as San Luis Obispo and the drop-off location as Los Angeles. Choose a rental period, browse through the available options, and make your reservation online.

Are there any additional fees associated with one-way car rentals?

Many companies charge a one-way fee to compensate for the logistics of returning the car to its original location. This fee varies by company and demand. It's recommended to review the booking details or contact the rental service for clarification.

What is the distance between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, and how long does it generally take to drive?

The distance between San Luis Obispo and downtown Los Angeles is approximately 200 miles. Driving time typically ranges from 3.5 to 4 hours under normal traffic conditions. Adjustments may be needed for peak travel times or weather considerations.

Can I take alternate routes to avoid heavy traffic during the trip?

Yes, alternative scenic routes via US-101 and CA-1 offer beautiful coastal views and reduced city traffic compared to solely using I-5. However, using these may extend travel time. Tools like Google Maps provide real-time traffic updates to help guide your choice.

What documents are required to pick up my rental car?

When picking up a rental car, you'll generally need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter’s name, and confirmation of your booking. For international travelers, some companies may require an International Driver's Permit (IDP) in addition to a valid passport.

Ready to Book Your San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes