Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 866-238-1137;
www.betterworldclub.com
)
Ecofriendly alternative auto club that supports environmental causes and offers optional
emergency roadside assistance for cyclists.
Driver's Licenses
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 desert and mountain areas.
Gas is sold in gallons (one US gallon equals 3.78L). At press time, the average cost for
mid-grade fuel was more than $4.
Insurance
California law requires liability insurance for all vehicles. When renting a car, check your
auto-insurance policy from home or your travel insurance policy to see if you're already
covered. If not, expect to pay about $20 per day.
Insurance against damage to the car itself, called Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), costs another $10 to $20 or more per day. The deductible
may require you to pay the first $100 to $500 for any repairs.
Some credit cards will cover CDW/LDW, provided you charge the entire cost of the car
rental to the card. If there's an accident you may have to pay the rental-car company first,
then seek reimbursement from the credit-card company.
Parking
Parking is usually plentiful and free in small towns and rural areas, but often scarce and/
or expensive in cities.
