Quick Summary
- Many US rental fleets can provide hand controls, spinner knobs and other adaptations, but they must be requested in advance and are always subject to availability.
- To secure the right equipment, you should book first, then contact Hola Car Rentals so we can pass your accessibility needs to the supplier and confirm written approval.
- Inclusive protection and clear fuel, mileage and breakdown policies make it easier for disabled drivers and passengers to focus on the trip rather than the paperwork.
Can I hire a vehicle with hand controls
Whether you are planning to cruise Pacific Coast Highway or explore city streets in Los Angeles, needing hand controls or another adaptation should not stop you enjoying a road trip. At major US locations, arranging car hire with hand controls is usually possible, especially when you give the supplier enough notice.
Most large brands keep a limited number of vehicles that can be fitted with temporary hand controls or other driving aids. These are often compact or mid size automatic models that match the way the equipment is designed. Because there are fewer adapted vehicles than standard ones, early planning is essential so that the team at Hola Car Rentals can match your request to a suitable partner.
What kinds of adaptations are available
The most common request is for push pull hand controls that operate the accelerator and brake without using foot pedals. Many suppliers can also offer steering wheel spinner knobs to help with one handed control. In some cases you may be able to request a left foot accelerator or other equipment, depending on the local fleet and legal rules.
Adaptations are usually installed by trained technicians to maintain safety systems such as airbags and braking assistance. This is why suppliers do not allow you to fit your own equipment to their vehicles. Hola Car Rentals always passes your accessibility needs directly to the rental company so that any approved equipment is installed correctly and checked before you arrive.
How to request hand controls or other support
The best process is to make an online booking for an automatic vehicle in the size you need and then contact Hola Car Rentals support with your reservation number. For example, you might reserve a mid size automatic and then ask our team to confirm hand controls for your dates. We will check with the supplier and send you written confirmation once they approve the request.
Because adapted vehicles are limited, it is wise to book at least a week or two before you travel, especially in busy periods. If you are combining several cities on the same journey, you might fly into California and then continue up the coast. Checking options for San Francisco airport pick up or planning a mountain escape with Denver mountain drives gives you a sense of where adapted vehicles are most likely to be available.
In many cases there is no extra charge for hand controls themselves, although policies do vary by supplier. You should still expect to meet the standard conditions on age, licence, deposit and protection, just as any other driver would.
Travelling as a disabled driver or passenger
Beyond the vehicle adaptations, think about the full journey. Airports such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver all have large car parks and multi level garages where finding the right bay quickly can make a big difference to your comfort. Hola Car Rentals sends clear instructions on where to collect your vehicle and how to return it, so you do not have to deal with unnecessary surprises in busy traffic.
If you travel as a passenger rather than the main driver, you might still want to sit in the front seat for comfort or easier transfers. Choosing a higher seating position, such as a small SUV, can make it easier to get in and out compared with a very low sports model. Our partners in cities such as Las Vegas also offer vehicles with generous boot space, which is helpful if you travel with wheelchairs or other mobility equipment.
For a wider look at how vehicle choice, route and timing affect your trip, our Las Vegas travel guide is a good example of how Hola Car Rentals breaks down practical details before you book.
Whichever route you choose, All Inclusive plus protection from Hola Car Rentals can add maximum liability cover and travel insurance up to 150000 USD on selected itineraries. That extra security is especially valuable when you already have medical considerations and want to avoid unexpected costs.
FAQs
How far in advance should I request hand controls?
Ideally you should make your booking at least seven to fourteen days before pick up and contact Hola Car Rentals straight away to add your request. This gives the supplier time to schedule installation and ensures the adapted vehicle is assigned to your reservation.
Can every location supply a vehicle with hand controls?
No, availability varies by city and by supplier. Large airports and major tourist destinations are more likely to have adapted vehicles than very small regional branches. If hand controls are essential, try to start your trip from a bigger hub and let Hola Car Rentals know this is a non negotiable requirement.
Do I pay extra for hand controls or other adaptations?
Many suppliers provide certain adaptations at no additional charge as part of their commitment to accessible travel, but some may apply a fee or require a specific vehicle category. Hola Car Rentals will always confirm any costs in writing before you agree to the booking.
Can I still add an additional driver if I use hand controls?
Yes, you can usually add other named drivers as long as they meet the usual age and licence conditions. Anyone who plans to drive should feel confident with the adapted controls and may want a short practice in a quiet area before heading onto busy roads.
What happens if the supplier cannot provide the adaptation I need?
If a partner cannot guarantee the equipment you require, Hola Car Rentals will help you look for alternatives such as a different pick up location, dates or vehicle size. If no suitable option exists, you will always be able to cancel without penalty under our free cancellation windows.
When you are ready to plan an accessible adventure, from coastal highways to national parks, Hola Car Rentals is here to coordinate the right vehicle, adaptations and cover so that you can travel with confidence.
