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Explore Los Angeles with One-Way Car Rentals

Convenient and flexible self-drive options from Santa Ana to Los Angeles.

Can I rent a car from Santa Ana to Los Angeles?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Santa Ana 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.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. XpCard and DcCard are supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 will incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day.
  • 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 IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the IDP at the counter.)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (Driver's licenses printed in Roman alphabet such as English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc., are acceptable without the need for an IDP. Licenses in non-Roman alphabet such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic, etc., must be accompanied by an IDP.)

    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. 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, MasterCard, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. XpCard, DcCard, and UnionPay are supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 will incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Santa Ana 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$ 38/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 37-US$ 50US$ 0US$ 110-US$ 131Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 50-US$ 54US$ 0US$ 131Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 42-US$ 58US$ 0US$ 114-US$ 256Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 39-US$ 78US$ 0US$ 114-US$ 424Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 67US$ 0US$ 201Families, comfort seeker

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

Key Consideration:
  • Be Aware of One-Way Fees: Many rental companies charge a one-way fee separate from your base rental rate. Make sure to inquire about these fees to avoid surprises.
  • Check for Route Restrictions: Ensure that your route from Santa Ana to Los Angeles is allowed by the rental agreement, especially if you plan to take detours or visit multiple locations.
  • Plan for Refueling: Know the locations of gas stations near your return point in Los Angeles and refuel before returning to avoid extra charges.
  • Understand Insurance Terms: Review the rental company’s insurance policies to cover you effectively during your journey from Santa Ana to Los Angeles.
  • Inspect the Vehicle Before Departure: Document any existing damages or issues with the vehicle to avoid disputes when returning it in Los Angeles.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early for Better Rates: Securing your rental early not only ensures availability but also locks in a more competitive rate.
  • Choose Flexible Drop-Off Times: Many rental agencies offer discounts for off-peak drop-off times; check for flexibility in your schedule.
  • Plan for Traffic in Los Angeles: Traffic can significantly impact your travel time around Los Angeles, so allow extra time for your return.
  • Opt for Unlimited Mileage: If possible, choose a rental package offering unlimited mileage to avoid additional costs.
  • Use Navigation Apps for Real-Time Guidance: Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you navigate efficiently and avoid traffic jams during your trip.
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 vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Save the last refueling receipt as proof of compliance with the policy.

Use gas stations near the drop-off location to ensure the tank is full at the time of return.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost in Los Angeles is approximately $5.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated before starting your trip.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Santa Ana Parking

Street parking is available but often limited during peak hours.

Consider using public parking lots for better security.

Parking rates in Santa Ana average around $2 per hour.

Los Angeles Parking

Los Angeles offers various parking options including metered street parking and parking structures.

Parking rates in Los Angeles can range from $1 to $5 per hour.

Valet parking is widely available at premium locations.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

BestParking

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes Around Santa Ana to Los Angeles:
Pacific Coast Highway Route
Scenic Coastal Route 1 hour 30 minutes

Experience magnificent ocean views along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Newport Beach , Huntington Beach , Santa Monica Pier
Interstate 5 Route
Direct Highway Route 1 hour 10 minutes

A fast and straightforward route through the heart of Southern California.

Anaheim , Downtown LA
State Route 91
Urban Scenic Route 1 hour 30 minutes

Navigate through suburban landscapes and cityscapes.

Fullerton , Carson
Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Selection: Ensure the rented vehicle meets travel needs, including space for luggage or passengers.

Budget Planning: Consider fuel costs, tolls, and rental fees for the full trip duration.

Route Planning: Review maps and check for possible construction or closures along the route.

Fuel Considerations: Locate gas stations at convenient waypoints to avoid running low on fuel.

Landmarks and Stops: Research interesting spots to integrate refreshing breaks into travel plans.

Parking Features: Check availability and any fees for parking at stops and in destination zones.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

To ensure a seamless one-way car rental experience from Santa Ana to Los Angeles, consider the following companies offering reliable services:

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighExtensive Wide vehicle selection , Easy online booking , Frequent customer reward programs
Enterprise$$$Very HighVery Extensive Exceptional customer service , Flexible pick-up options , Great location accessibility
Budget$ModerateGood Affordable pricing , No hidden fees , Convenient rental terms
Avis$$HighExtensive Luxury and premium car selection , Clean and modern vehicles , Streamlined drop-off process
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

Atmosphere in Rental Car Centers

Operating Hours:

Rental car centers at Santa Ana (SNA) and Los Angeles (LAX) are generally open 24/7 to accommodate various flight schedules and rental needs.

Location:

Rental car centers at both airports are easily accessible from the terminal via designated shuttle buses.

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttle buses run every 10-15 minutes at both airports, ensuring minimal wait time between the terminals and the rental centers.

Airport Transportation:

Both airports provide clear signage to guide you to transportation options from terminals to rental car facilities.

Pro Tips for John Wayne Airport(SNA) Car Rentals

Reserve your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and ensure vehicle availability, particularly during peak seasons or holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need for a one-way car rental from Santa Ana to Los Angeles?

You will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and insurance details. Some rental companies may also require an additional form of identification. Please check with your rental company for specific requirements.

Are there additional fees for a one-way rental between these cities?

Many car rental companies charge a one-way rental fee as vehicles need to be returned to their original location. This fee varies by company and time of the year. Confirm specific fees during the booking process.

What vehicle options are available for this rental route?

Most rental companies offer a range of vehicles, including economy, SUV, and luxury models. Availability depends on demand and the specific rental location. Early booking increases your likelihood of securing your preferred vehicle type.

How do I pick up and drop off the rental car?

You will pick up the car at the rental location in Santa Ana and drop it off at the specified rental office in Los Angeles. Confirm addresses and operating hours with the rental provider. Some companies offer contactless pickup and drop-off options.

What should I do in case of an emergency or breakdown during the rental period?

Contact the rental company's emergency hotline for assistance. The number will be provided in your rental agreement. You may also have roadside assistance coverage; verify this when booking or check with your personal insurance provider.

Ready to Book Your Santa Ana to Los Angeles Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes