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Explore Las Vegas With Ease

Start your journey in Santa Monica and arrive hassle-free in Las Vegas with our one-way car rental services.

Can I rent a car from Santa Monica to Las Vegas?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Santa Monica to Las Vegas. 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).
  • 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. Supported card attributes: XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. 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. 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 Lisense (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 who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be also 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, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes: XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. 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 Monica to Las Vegas 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$ 58US$ 0-US$ 100US$ 110-US$ 148Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 52-US$ 70US$ 0-US$ 100US$ 132-US$ 178Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 42-US$ 85US$ 0-US$ 150US$ 125-US$ 295Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 39-US$ 288US$ 0-US$ 150US$ 117-US$ 879Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 67-US$ 85US$ 0-US$ 150US$ 215-US$ 271Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 140-US$ 185US$ 0-US$ 150US$ 420-US$ 564Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • Assessing One-Way Fees: Always inquire about additional charges for dropping off the vehicle at a location different than the pick-up site.
  • Cross-State Restrictions: Confirm with the rental company if they allow cross-state travel for the vehicle, and understand any extra terms that may apply.
  • Vehicle Availability: Verify that your preferred vehicle type or size is available for your route selection on the specific dates.
  • Advance Reservations: One-way rentals are popular, so book early to ensure availability and possibly secure better rates.
  • Return Locations: Choose return locations that align with your itinerary to minimize unexpected detours.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Travel Times Smartly: Consider traffic patterns between Santa Monica and Las Vegas to optimize drive times.
  • Map Out Gas Stations: Identify convenient fuel stops along your route to avoid last-minute searches.
  • Carry Proper Documentation: Bring all necessary identification and confirmation documents for a seamless rental process.
  • Understand Insurance Options: Be clear on whether your coverage is included or if additional protection is needed.
  • Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly: Check the car for damage before starting your trip and report any issues to avoid disputes.
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 gas stations near the drop-off location to ensure the tank is full upon return.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel price for this route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

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

Ensure your tires are properly inflated before starting the journey.

Avoid using air conditioning excessively to conserve fuel.

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Santa Monica Parking

Parking costs in Santa Monica range from $2 to $5 per hour in public garages.

Street parking is available but often limited; check signs for restrictions.

Consider using parking apps to reserve a spot in advance.

Las Vegas Parking

Las Vegas offers free parking at many hotels and casinos.

Public parking garages typically charge $1 to $2 per hour.

Valet parking is widely available but may incur additional fees.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

Parking Panda

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Santa Monica to Las Vegas:
Interstate 15 Route
Direct Route 4 hours 30 minutes

A fast and straightforward route via Interstate 15, featuring arid desert scenery and minimal detours.

Victorville , Barstow , Primm
Route 66 Scenic Byway
Scenic Drive 6 hours

A historical route offering charming small-town stops, eateries, and vintage sights.

San Bernardino , Kingman , Boulder City
Mojave National Preserve Detour
Nature Adventure 5 hours 30 minutes

A captivating detour showcasing desert landscapes, wildlife, and secluded trails.

Kelso Dunes , Hole-in-the-Wall , Las Vegas
Road Trip Planning Tips

Car Rental Tips: Compare one-way rental prices from various agencies to ensure you get the best deal.

Time Management: Plan your departure in the morning to optimize daylight for driving and sightseeing.

Navigation Tools: Use reliable offline maps and mark stops beforehand in case of limited GPS connectivity.

Fuel Planning: Know the locations of fuel stations along remote stretches to avoid running low on gas.

Safety Precautions: Carry water and emergency supplies as this route includes expansive desert areas with isolated stretches.

Avoid Cost Disputes: Thoroughly inspect the rental car for existing damage and clarify insurance terms at pickup and drop-off.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Find the best car rental companies servicing one-way trips from Santa Monica to Las Vegas.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$HighExcellent Wide vehicle selection , Frequent promotions , Outstanding customer service
Hertz$$HighExcellent Modern and well-maintained vehicles , Convenient return locations , Flexible pick-up and drop-off options
Avis$$MediumGood Affordable rates , Multiple luxury models available , Streamlined rental process
Budget Rent A Car$MediumGood Cost-effective options , Compact to larger vehicles , Quick booking 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

Details About Renting a Car in Santa Monica and Returning in Las Vegas

Operating Hours:

Santa Monica locations operate from 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; most Las Vegas rental centers are open 24/7.

Pickup and Drop-Off Locations:

Convenient rental offices are located in downtown Santa Monica and close to the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport.

Transportation Between Rental Centers:

Shuttle services from the rental center to terminals and other key Las Vegas areas are readily available.

Pro Tips for Santa Monica Municipal Airport(SMO) Car Rentals

Plan your rental pick-up and drop-off according to the operational hours and ensure the chosen rental company has favorable one-way pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation do I need to rent a car for a one-way trip?

To rent a car for a one-way trip, you typically need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and proof of age, as renters must generally be at least 21 years old. Certain car rental companies might have specific requirements, so it's best to check directly with the provider.

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

Yes, many rental companies charge a one-way fee, also known as a drop-off fee, for the convenience of returning the car to a location different from where it was rented. This fee varies by company, vehicle type, and route.

What is the typical duration of the drive from Santa Monica to Las Vegas?

The drive from Santa Monica to Las Vegas typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 280 miles, depending on traffic and chosen route. Plan for possible stops and breaks along the way.

Can I extend my rental period after the booking is made?

Most rental companies allow rental extensions, but it's crucial to inform them as soon as possible. Fees for extensions depend on the company and how long you're extending the rental.

Are there specific restrictions or considerations for one-way rentals during peak travel seasons?

During peak travel seasons, such as holidays or summer months, it's advisable to book your rental vehicle early as availability is limited. Additionally, some companies may have restrictions on certain car types or routes during these periods.

Ready to Book Your Santa Monica to Las Vegas Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes