Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Driver's License
Visitors may legally drive a car in California for up to 12 months with their home driver's
license.
If you're from overseas, an International Driving Permit (IDP) will have more credibility
with traffic police and simplify the car-rental process, especially if your license doesn't
have a photo or isn't written in English.
To drive a motorcycle, you'll need a valid US state motorcycle license or a specially en-
dorsed IDP.
International automobile associations can issue IDPs, valid for one year, for a fee. Al-
ways carry your home license together with the IDP.
Fuel
Gas stations in California, nearly all of which are self-service, are ubiquitous, except in
national parks and some sparsely populated areas.
Gas is sold in gallons (one US gallon equals 3.78L). At press time, the cost for mid-grade
fuel was more than $4.
Insurance
California law requires liability insurance for all vehicles. When renting a car, check your
home auto-insurance policy or your international travel-insurance policy to see if you're
already covered. If not, expect to pay around $10 to $20 or more per day.
Insurance against damage to the car itself, called Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), costs another $20 per day; the deductible may require you to
pay the first $100 to $500 for any repairs.
Some credit cards cover CDW/LDW, provided you charge the entire cost of the car rental
to the card. Check with your credit-card issuer first to determine the extent of coverage and
policy exclusions.
Rental
CARS
To rent your own wheels, you'll typically need to be at least 25 years old, hold a valid
driver's license and have a major credit card,
not
a check or debit card. A few companies
may rent to drivers under 25 but over 21 for a hefty surcharge. If you don't have a credit
card, large cash deposits are infrequently accepted.
