Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Santa Monica to Los Angeles. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
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. 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.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 37/dayStarting from
US$ 39/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 37-US$ 50 | US$ 0 | US$ 110-US$ 159 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 50-US$ 54 | US$ 0 | US$ 159 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 42-US$ 61 | US$ 0 | US$ 125-US$ 260 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 39-US$ 78 | US$ 0 | US$ 117-US$ 327 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Premium | US$ 67 | US$ 0 | US$ 201 | Families, comfort seeker |
| Van | US$ 133 | US$ 0 | US$ 399 | Large families, groups |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car to the same level as when you picked it up to avoid additional charges.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Refueling at stations near the drop-off location can save time and ensure compliance with policies.
The estimated average fuel price in Los Angeles is $5.00 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.
Ensure tires are properly inflated before starting the trip.
Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.
Metered street parking is available in downtown Santa Monica.
Parking garages near the Santa Monica Pier offer convenient access to attractions.
Consider using parking apps to find and reserve spots in advance.
Los Angeles offers numerous parking lots and garages in downtown and near major attractions.
Street parking is available but often has time restrictions.
Some areas may require residential permits for parking.
ParkMobile
SpotHero
Parking Panda
Experience the iconic beaches and surf culture of Malibu.
Discover the cultural gems and vibrant culinary scenes of downtown Los Angeles.
Immerse yourself in the world of entertainment and celebrity sightings in Hollywood.
Enjoy a short yet vibrant journey between these famous beaches.
Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a car that fits your travel needs and luggage capacity.
Plan Ahead: Book your rental vehicle in advance to secure better rates.
Know Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the major routes and their conditions.
Check Rental Policies: Understand the company rental policies, especially regarding one-way trips.
Budget Accordingly: Account for fuel costs, tolls, and security deposits.
Car Drop-off Locations: Confirm available drop-off points in Los Angeles to avoid additional fees.
Introduction to selecting rental companies for a one-way trip from Santa Monica to Los Angeles, focusing on those offering one-way rental service.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$ | High | Wide | Reliable customer service , Multiple locations for drop-off , Extensive vehicle choices |
| Enterprise | $$$ | High | Extensive | Convenient locations , Strong customer support , Diverse selection of cars |
| Avis | $$ | Moderate | Good | Ease of booking , Affordable pricing |
| Budget | $ | Limited | Moderate | Cost-effective options , Simple booking process |
Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates
200+ countries and regions
Compare across providers
Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp
One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector
Rental centers generally operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though specific times may vary.
Rental centers are typically located within 2 miles of Santa Monica center and near Los Angeles city entry points.
Complimentary shuttle services are available between specified pickup and drop-off locations.
24/7 customer service is available through helplines and on-site staff.
Verify the availability of low-cost fuel stations near your drop-off destination to save on re-fueling after your trip.
Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ
