VERIFIED REVIEWS
Frequently Asked Questions
What does my Hola Car Rentals booking with Hertz in California include that other companies don't offer?
Hola Car Rentals is the only premium partner of the top car rental brands operating in California, including Hertz, giving you exclusive access to our All Inclusive+ rate. This rate includes benefits that no other company can match:
- Free liability coverage starting at US$ 300,000 in case of an accident (applies only to certain rates and itineraries)
- Toll cashback: recover up to 5% of the reservation's total value for toll charges incurred during your rental period
- Premium travel medical assistance providing up to US$ 150,000 in coverage for a maximum of 5 passengers in case of a medical emergency, excluding pre-existing conditions
- No Extra Charges© guarantee: if the counter charges you for something not listed on your confirmation and not an optional add-on you accepted, Hola Car Rentals will work to remove or reimburse the charge after verification
All of this comes at no extra cost, ensuring a fully protected Hertz rental experience and peace of mind throughout your trip in California.
Will I face unexpected charges at the Hertz counter in California when I book through Hola Car Rentals?
No. With Hola Car Rentals, all costs and charges for your Hertz booking in California are clearly shown at the time of reservation and in your confirmation email, so you know exactly what you are paying before you arrive at the Hertz counter.
On top of that, every Hola Car Rentals booking includes the No Extra Charges© guarantee. This is a pricing guarantee (not insurance) that protects you if the Hertz counter in California charges you for something that was not listed on your confirmation and was not an optional add-on you accepted. If that happens, Hola Car Rentals will work with Hertz to remove or reimburse the charge after verification.
The only costs outside this guarantee are:
- Optional add-ons you choose at the counter (GPS, child seats, prepaid fuel)
- Usage-based charges (tolls, fuel shortfall, traffic fines)
What toll system do I need to know about when driving a Hertz rental car in California?
California uses FasTrak as its statewide electronic toll system, and it applies to virtually every toll facility you may encounter in a Hertz rental across California, including Bay Area bridges, Orange County toll roads (SR-73, SR-241, SR-261, SR-133), and express lanes on freeways such as I-10, I-110, and I-91.
Nearly all toll roads in California are fully cashless, meaning you cannot pay with cash at the booth. Your Hertz vehicle will already include an electronic toll device or plate-based billing system.
At the Hertz counter in California you typically have two options:
- Purchase an unlimited toll package at approximately US$11 to US$25 per rental day, which covers all toll usage during your rental
- Decline the package and pay per use, in which case Hertz will charge the actual toll amounts plus administrative processing fees to your card, often days or weeks after the rental ends
You may also opt out and pay tolls directly through the FasTrak website or the toll agency portal, but you must inform the Hertz counter agent so they can deactivate the vehicle's default device and prevent duplicate charges.
How much do tolls typically cost on a Hertz rental in California?
Toll costs for a Hertz rental in California vary significantly depending on which part of the state you drive in and how often you use toll facilities.
In Northern California, the Bay Area has the highest toll exposure:
- Each Bay Area bridge crossing costs approximately US$7 to US$15 (for example, the Golden Gate Bridge is US$9.75 with FasTrak and US$10.75 by invoice)
- A day with one bridge crossing typically costs US$10 to US$20
- Multiple crossings in a day can reach US$20 to US$35 or more
In Southern California, most highways are free. Toll exposure is concentrated in two areas:
- Los Angeles express lanes (I-10, I-110, and others): approximately US$0 to US$10 per day if used
- Orange County toll roads (SR-73, SR-241, SR-261, SR-133): approximately US$5 to US$15 per day depending on usage
- San Diego has very limited toll exposure
These are estimates only. Actual charges depend on the specific facilities used and time of day. If you decline the Hertz unlimited toll package, tolls are billed at undiscounted rates plus administrative fees, which can be 30 to 50 percent higher than FasTrak rates.
What documents do I need to pick up a Hertz rental car in California?
To collect your Hertz rental in California, you must present the following physical documents at the counter:
- A valid, original driver's license (not a digital copy)
- A major credit card with your name printed on the physical card, in the main driver's name, for the security deposit hold
- A passport or valid government-issued photo ID
- Your booking confirmation or printed voucher
- Round-trip flight or cruise tickets if you are visiting from abroad
If your driver's license is not in English and does not use a Latin (Roman) alphabet, such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, or Cyrillic script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory alongside your original license. For licenses in Roman letters but not in English, an IDP is strongly recommended.
Hertz locations in California follow the same document rules as other U.S. rental partners. All documents must be physical originals. Digital versions shown on a phone are not accepted at the counter. Obtain your IDP in your home country before traveling, as U.S. issuers such as AAA do not issue IDPs to non-U.S. license holders.
Does Hola Car Rentals offer toll cashback for Hertz rentals in California?
Yes, all Hola Car Rentals bookings include Tolls Cashback, and this benefit applies to Hertz rentals in California, where toll exposure can be significant on Bay Area bridges, Orange County roads, and Los Angeles express lanes.
The cashback works as follows: Hola Car Rentals reimburses the lesser of the total tolls you paid or up to 5% of your total booking value. For example, if your booking total is US$600, the cap is US$30. If you paid US$18 in tolls, you receive US$18 back. If you paid US$50, you receive US$30.
To claim your cashback after returning your Hertz vehicle in California:
- Email [email protected] within 30 days of vehicle return
- Use the subject line: Tolls Cashback - HOLA followed by your confirmation number
- Attach your Hola Car Rentals reservation confirmation, the Hertz rental agreement, and a toll receipt or statement showing charges paid
Refunds are issued to the original payment method and typically process within 7 to 10 business days after approval. Late submissions received after 30 days are not accepted.
Is a credit card required for the security deposit at Hertz in California?
Yes, a physical major credit card in the main driver's name is required at every Hertz location in California to cover the security deposit hold at pickup.
The hold is a temporary authorization placed on your card, not an immediate charge. It reduces your available credit until your bank releases it after the rental ends, which can take up to 15 business days.
Typical security deposit holds at Hertz locations in the United States, including California, are approximately US$300 to US$400 for standard vehicles. Premium or specialty vehicles may require a higher hold.
Important points to keep in mind:
- Debit cards, prepaid cards, and virtual or single-use card numbers are not accepted for the deposit
- The card must be physically present and have the driver's name printed on it
- Digital wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay are not accepted for the deposit hold
- Even if you prepaid your booking online, you must still present a physical credit card at the Hertz counter in California
- Bring a backup credit card in your name in case your primary card is declined
Notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent fraud blocks on in-person authorizations in California.
Can drivers under 25 rent a Hertz car in California?
Yes, drivers aged 21 to 24 can rent a Hertz car in California, but a young-renter surcharge applies and certain vehicle classes are restricted.
California does not have a state law requiring rentals to drivers under 21, so the minimum age at Hertz locations in California is generally 21. Drivers aged 21 to 24 will be charged a daily young-renter fee on top of the base rental rate.
For Hertz specifically, the additional driver fee structure gives an indication of the brand's pricing tier, and young-renter surcharges follow a similar per-day model. The exact daily surcharge amount varies by location and season, so confirm the amount at the Hertz counter in California at pickup.
Vehicle class restrictions also apply for under-25 renters in California:
- Classes typically available: Economy, Compact, Intermediate, and Compact SUV
- Classes typically restricted: Full Size, Standard, Minivan, Van, Convertible, Luxury, Premium, and Premium SUV
Drivers must still present a valid license, a major credit card in their name, and all standard documents. If your license uses a non-Latin alphabet, an IDP is also required at the Hertz counter in California.
How does the Hertz toll program work at California airport locations like LAX and SFO?
At Hertz airport locations in California, including LAX and SFO, your rental vehicle already contains an electronic toll device or a plate-based billing system linked to California's FasTrak network. You do not need to bring your own transponder.
At the Hertz counter in California you will be offered a choice:
- Unlimited toll package: a fixed daily rate of approximately US$11 to US$25 per day, covering all toll usage during your rental period with no per-toll charges on top
- Pay per use: you decline the package, and Hertz charges you the actual toll amounts plus administrative processing fees after the rental ends, sometimes weeks later
If you plan to avoid toll roads entirely in California, you can opt out at the Hertz counter and pay any accidental toll charges directly through the relevant toll agency website within the required window (typically 48 hours for the Golden Gate Bridge and 5 days for The Toll Roads in Orange County).
If you use your own FasTrak account, inform the Hertz agent so they can deactivate the vehicle's default device. This prevents duplicate charges appearing on both your personal FasTrak account and your Hertz bill.
Do not move the toll device between vehicles, as this can result in penalties.
Does travel assistance come with a Hertz booking in California through Hola Car Rentals?
Yes, most Hola Car Rentals bookings include travel assistance provided by Terrawind Global Protection, and this applies to Hertz rentals in California. However, this benefit is available only to non-North American customers. Residents and citizens of the United States and Canada do not qualify.
For eligible renters driving a Hertz vehicle across California, the coverage can be especially useful given the long distances between cities and remote stretches of highway. Core benefits typically include:
- Travel and medical coverage for up to 5 passengers
- Legal assistance in the event of a road accident
- Compensation for baggage lost by the airline
- Flight cancellation insurance
This coverage does not include damage to the Hertz rental vehicle itself (that is handled by CDW/LDW) or third-party liability to other drivers (handled by LIS/ALI/SLI).
To reach the assistance line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
- Call toll-free or collect: +1 888 980 9992
- WhatsApp: +1 208 910 1001
- Email: [email protected]
Always check your booking confirmation for the exact coverage terms and limits that apply to your Hertz rental in California.
What insurance coverage is included in a Hertz rental in California?
The insurance and protection options included in your Hertz rental in California depend on the rate plan you selected when booking through Hola Car Rentals. It is important to review your booking confirmation carefully before arriving at the Hertz counter.
The main coverages to understand are:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): reduces your financial liability for damage to the Hertz vehicle from a collision, theft, or vandalism. A deductible may apply unless your confirmation states zero excess
- Third-Party Liability (LIS/ALI/SLI): covers bodily injury and property damage you may cause to other people while driving the Hertz rental in California. Some U.S. states require a minimum level of liability, but not all do, so confirm whether this is included in your rate
CDW/LDW does not cover third parties, and LIS/ALI/SLI does not cover damage to the Hertz vehicle itself. You need both for comprehensive protection.
Coverages not included in standard rental protection:
- Personal accident insurance (your own injuries)
- Personal effects coverage (your belongings)
- Tires, undercarriage, roof, and keys (often excluded from CDW)
Always add all drivers to the Hertz rental agreement in California, as coverage applies only to named drivers on the contract.
Can I add an additional driver to my Hertz rental in California?
Yes, you can add an additional driver to your Hertz rental in California, either as part of your rate if it is already included, or by paying a fee at the counter.
For Hertz rentals in California, the additional driver fee when not included in your rate is US$13.50 per rental day plus taxes, with a maximum charge of US$189 plus taxes for the rental period.
Requirements for adding an additional driver at the Hertz counter in California:
- The additional driver must be physically present at pickup
- They must present a valid driver's license and any required ID
- If their license uses a non-Latin alphabet, an IDP is also required
- They must meet the minimum age requirements for California
- Both the main driver and the additional driver must sign the rental agreement
Only drivers listed on the Hertz rental agreement in California are covered by protections such as CDW/LDW and liability insurance. If someone drives who is not named on the contract, coverage may be void and additional charges can apply.
Check your booking confirmation before arriving at the Hertz counter in California to see whether an additional driver is already included in your rate at no extra cost.
What is the fuel policy for Hertz rentals in California?
Hertz rentals in California follow a Full-to-Full fuel policy by default. You receive the vehicle with a full tank and must return it full to avoid fuel charges.
Steps to follow to avoid fuel charges on your Hertz rental in California:
- At pickup, check the fuel gauge with the Hertz agent and confirm the starting level is recorded on the rental agreement
- Take a photo of the dashboard showing the odometer and fuel gauge
- Refuel within approximately 10 miles or 15 km of the return location so the gauge does not drop before you arrive
- Keep the fuel receipt showing the date, time, and station address
- Show the gauge at Full when returning the vehicle
If you return the Hertz vehicle in California with less than a full tank, you may be charged for the fuel shortfall at the partner's refueling rate, which is typically higher than retail pump prices, plus a refueling service fee.
Some Hertz counter locations in California may offer an optional prepaid fuel plan. If you accept it, any unused fuel is generally non-refundable, so it is usually better value to refuel yourself near the return location.
Use the correct fuel type for your vehicle. Wrong-fuel incidents are not covered by the fuel policy and may generate additional charges.
Where are the Hertz counters located at major California airports?
Hertz has rental counters at all major California airports. Key locations include:
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): 9000 Airport Boulevard or 9020 Airport Boulevard, Los Angeles. The LAX counter operates 24 hours daily
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): the SFO area counter operates 24 hours daily. A South San Francisco neighborhood location is also available at 177 S Airport Boulevard
- San Diego International Airport (SAN): 3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego. Open 24 hours daily
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Sacramento
- Oakland International Airport: Oakland
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): 2501 North Hollywood Way, Burbank
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): Fresno
- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP): Palm Springs
- San Luis Obispo Airport: 975 Airport Drive, Suite 06, San Luis Obispo
- Meadows Field Airport (BFL): Bakersfield
At California airports, follow the car rental signs after baggage claim to reach the Hertz counter or the consolidated rental car center. Hertz also operates downtown and neighborhood locations across California, such as Sacramento's 16th Street location at 1025 16th Street, which may have different operating hours than airport counters.
Can I pick up my Hertz car in one California city and return it in another?
Yes, one-way rentals are available with Hertz in California, allowing you to pick up in one city and return in another, for example from Los Angeles to San Francisco or from San Diego to Sacramento.
A drop-off fee may apply depending on the route. This fee is set by Hertz and varies based on the cities involved, the distance, the vehicle class, and the season. Not every California route incurs a drop-off fee, but many inter-city routes do.
How to check whether a drop-off fee applies to your Hertz one-way rental in California:
- During the booking process on the Hola Car Rentals website, select different pickup and return locations
- On the rate details page, look for a line labeled Drop-Off Fee under the To Pay at Destination section
- If no fee appears, the route does not carry a one-way charge
- Your booking confirmation will also list this fee if it applies
The drop-off fee cannot be prepaid and is not covered by No Extra Charges© Coverage unless it was not disclosed during booking. If the Hertz counter in California charges a higher fee than shown on your confirmation, keep all paperwork and contact Hola Car Rentals support for assistance.
Changing your return location after booking may reprice the rental and recalculate or add a drop-off fee.
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