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Explore The Scenic Route From Santa Fe To Los Angeles

Discover our one-way car rental options to make your journey seamless and enjoy an unforgettable travel experience.

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

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Santa Fe 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, Master, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21 to 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 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 be also 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, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21 to 24 will incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Santa Fe 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$ 207/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 214/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 411-US$ 514US$ 300-US$ 405US$ 619-US$ 721Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 519US$ 300US$ 693Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 412-US$ 654US$ 300-US$ 350US$ 622-US$ 735Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 419-US$ 1,001US$ 304-US$ 350US$ 640-US$ 1,591Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 448US$ 304-US$ 350US$ 730Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 625-US$ 1,001US$ 350US$ 845-US$ 1,801Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fees: Some rental companies charge an additional fee for dropping the car off at a different location. Verify the fees in advance to budget effectively.
  • Restrictions On Routes: Ensure that the rental agreement allows for travel across state lines if you plan to deviate from the direct route.
  • Vehicle Selection: Choose a vehicle that fits your travel needs, focusing on comfort and fuel efficiency for long drives.
  • Fuel Policies: Understand how you are required to refuel the vehicle before returning it; it often needs to match the fuel level at pickup.
  • Drop-off Location Specifics: Confirm the exact drop-off address and operating hours of the Los Angeles rental location to avoid unexpected charges or inconveniences.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book In Advance: Securing your vehicle early ensures availability and may also fetch you better rates.
  • Compare Rental Companies: Research different providers for both rental fees and added benefits such as roadside assistance.
  • Inspect The Vehicle During Pickup: Thoroughly check for any prior damages and have the rental agency document them before you drive off.
  • Plan Your Route: Prepare a clear travel itinerary, considering road conditions and potential stops for rest or sightseeing.
  • Understand Insurance Options: Evaluate different insurance packages offered by the rental company and your own credit card or personal auto insurance for coverage.
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 it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use nearby gas stations to the drop-off location to save time.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel usage.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Santa Fe Parking

Parking in downtown Santa Fe can range from $2 to $5 per hour.

Look for public parking garages for longer stays.

Street parking is free on Sundays and public holidays.

Los Angeles Parking

Parking rates in Los Angeles range from $5 to $20 per hour.

Use parking apps to find cheaper parking options.

Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkWhiz - Find and book parking spots in advance.

SpotHero - Compare prices and reserve parking.

LA Express Park - Offers real-time parking availability in Los Angeles.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Major Routes from Santa Fe to Los Angeles:
Historic Route 66
Scenic Highway 13 hours

Travel along the iconic Route 66, experiencing classic diners and historic landmarks.

Albuquerque , Flagstaff , Barstow
Interstate 40
Interstate Highway 12 hours

A fast and direct route connecting Santa Fe and Los Angeles, suitable for quick travel.

Amarillo , Kingman , San Bernardino
US Route 285 to I-25
Alternative Highway 14 hours

A picturesque journey blending highway and scenic routes.

Las Cruces , Phoenix , Palm Springs
Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your rental car is in optimal condition and familiarize yourself with operational features.

Route Mapping: Plan your travel route carefully, including stops and alternative roads for unexpected closures.

Safety Considerations: Be prepared for diverse road types and driving conditions along your journey.

Fuel Planning: Identify reliable and convenient gas station stops to keep your trip stress-free.

Efficient Packing: Pack light and ensure your luggage is secure and doesn't obstruct mirrors.

Expense Management: Budget for rental fees, fuel costs, food, accommodations, and potential tolls.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Learn about selecting the right car rental provider for a one-way trip from Santa Fe to Los Angeles.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$★★★★☆Nationwide Easy-to-navigate booking system , Large variety of fleet options , Multiple pickup and drop-off locations
Avis Car Rental$$$★★★★☆Extensive coverage in both cities 24/7 customer support , Flexible plans for one-way rentals , Convenient city and airport rental office
Hertz$$$★★★★☆Comprehensive across major cities Premium fleet options including luxury vehicles , Reward programs for frequent renters , Reliable two-city coverage for smooth rental
Budget Car Rental$★★★☆☆Regional availability in Santa Fe and Los Angeles Affordable pricing for budget-conscious travelers , Efficient reservation process , Basic but reliable transportation options
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

Details about Rental Car Centers

Location of Rental Car Center:

Rental car centers are located at Santa Fe Regional Airport and Los Angeles International Airport for easy access.

Operating Hours:

Santa Fe Regional Airport rental services operate from 8 AM to 6 PM, while Los Angeles facilities are open 24/7.

Shuttle Frequency:

In Los Angeles, shuttles run every 10 minutes to the rental car center from the airport terminals.

Airport Transportation:

Santa Fe offers convenient public transport near the airport, and car rentals in LA provide direct access to major freeways.

Pro Tips for Santa Fe Municipal Airport(SAF) Car Rentals

Reserve your rental vehicle well in advance to secure the best prices and a wider selection of cars for the one-way journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services do one-way car rentals from Santa Fe to Los Angeles include?

One-way car rentals typically include the vehicle, basic insurance, GPS options, and roadside assistance. Some companies may also offer customization in terms of vehicle type and add-ons.

Are there any additional fees for one-way car rentals?

Yes, most car rental companies apply an additional one-way fee to cover the cost of relocating the vehicle. This fee varies depending on the company and the distance between locations.

Do I need to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas?

Standard rental agreements usually require renters to refuel the vehicle to the level it was when picked up. Some companies offer options where fuel costs are prepaid.

What is the recommended route for driving from Santa Fe to Los Angeles?

A common route follows Interstate 40 and Interstate 15, covering around 800 miles. Many travelers enjoy stopping at scenic landmarks like Albuquerque or Flagstaff along the way.

What type of vehicles are suitable for this route?

For a comfortable journey, mid-sized or full-sized vehicles are recommended. SUV options are available if you plan for possible rough terrains or higher seating preference.

Ready to Book Your Santa Fe to Los Angeles Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes