Our pricing is transparent
With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.
If you're looking for car rental in Los Angeles Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for domestic and international travel. Located about 18 miles (29 km) southwest of Downtown Los Angeles, LAX provides access to the vibrant city of LA, famous for Hollywood, beaches, and diverse cultural attractions.
California, often referred to as "The Golden State," is one of the most diverse and vibrant places in the United States. Known for its stunning coastline, towering redwood forests, and world-famous cities, California offers something for everyone. From the tech hub of Silicon Valley to the wine regions of Napa Valley, the state blends natural beauty with cutting-edge innovation.
Outdoor lovers can explore Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, or the deserts of Joshua Tree, while beachgoers can soak up the sun in San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Malibu. Whether you're visiting for the iconic landmarks, theme parks like Disneyland, or the laid-back West Coast lifestyle, California promises an unforgettable experience.
Los Angeles stands out as California’s entertainment and cultural capital, offering a completely different experience from other cities in the state. While San Francisco is known for its hilly streets, historic cable cars, and the Golden Gate Bridge, LA is sprawling, with endless freeways and beachfront neighborhoods like Santa Monica and Venice. Unlike San Diego, which has a more relaxed, coastal vibe, LA is fast-paced and diverse, attracting aspiring actors, musicians, and entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Compared to Northern California, which is lush and forested, Southern California (where LA is located) has a warmer, drier climate, making it perfect for outdoor activities year-round. Unlike the laid-back surf culture of Orange County, LA is a mix of glitz and grit, where Hollywood glamour meets urban diversity. The city's massive entertainment industry, world-class dining, and eclectic neighborhoods make it unique from any other place in California.
While cities like San Francisco or San Diego offer their own charm, Los Angeles is unmatched in its scale, cultural diversity, and endless entertainment options—whether you're walking down Hollywood Boulevard, taking a scenic drive on Mulholland Drive, or enjoying a beach sunset in Malibu.
Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.
When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.
Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.
Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.
While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.
When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.
Our pricing is transparent
With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.
Get your car with ease
Our car rental points are located within easy distances from central locations - near airports and train stations, as well as in the heart of cities.
We are eco-friendly
We strive to minimize our environmental impact. We invest in, among other things, biodegradable chemicals and less water-consuming methods to clean our cars, such as steam cleaning.
We are always happy to help
You can get answers to frequently asked questions, and get in touch with us from the Contact-page: https://greenmotion.com/contact/ or contact us at [email protected].
Elijah , Los Angeles Airport
I rented a car for a road trip across California, and everything went smoothly. Highly recommend renting from LAX Green Motion!
Liam , Los Angeles Airport
Great car, easy pickup and drop-off. Navigating LA traffic is tough, but having a rental made everything more convenient.
Michael , Los Angeles Airport
The best rental experience I’ve had in the U.S. Quick check-in, no hidden fees, and the car was in excellent condition.
Sean , Los Angeles Airport
We were extremely happy with this company, the man at the counter was super helpful, nice and friendly. Would definitely rent with this company again!
Once you have landed at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and picked up your rental car from the designated office, we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.
Driving in Los Angeles for the first time can be a unique experience, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with your rental vehicle, LA’s traffic rules, and your planned routes before heading out.
In California, driving is on the right-hand side, and a valid driver’s license is required. Visitors from most countries can drive with their home country’s license, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-English licenses.
Los Angeles is known for its heavy traffic, especially on highways like I-405, I-10, and US-101. Rush hour traffic (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM) can add significant delays to your travel time, so plan accordingly.
The speed limits in Los Angeles are 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h) in residential and urban areas, 55-65 mph (88-105 km/h) on highways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on some freeways.
Toll roads exist around LA, including Express Lanes on certain highways, which require a FasTrak transponder. Your rental car may come equipped with a toll pass, or you may be billed later based on license plate scanning.
Parking in Los Angeles can be difficult, especially near popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Downtown LA. Street parking is often metered, and private parking lots charge varying rates. Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help find available parking spots.
Los Angeles also has carpool (HOV) lanes on many highways, allowing vehicles with two or more passengers to bypass heavy traffic.
- Right Turn on Red: Allowed unless a sign prohibits it. Always come to a full stop first.
- Speed Limits: Typically 25-35 mph in residential areas, 45-65 mph on highways, and 70 mph on interstates.
- Tolls: Some highways in California have tolls, but most of LA’s roads are toll-free.
- Traffic: LA is notorious for heavy traffic, especially on the 405, 101, and 10 freeways. Peak hours are 7-10 AM and 3-7 PM. Consider using navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to find alternate routes.
- Parking: Street parking is available but highly regulated. Look for signs to avoid fines. Paid parking garages are recommended in busy areas.
- Carpool Lanes: If you have two or more passengers, you can use the HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes, which help bypass some of the congestion.
If you need help while in Los Angeles, don’t hesitate to contact our office. In an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical services.
Enjoy your drive in Los Angeles and take advantage of your rental car to explore Hollywood, the Pacific Coast Highway, theme parks, and stunning California landscapes!
Los Angeles, California, is a sprawling metropolis known for its diverse entertainment industry, beautiful beaches, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're visiting for the Hollywood experience, scenic coastal drives, or cultural attractions, renting a car is the best way to explore this vast city. Public transportation is limited, and many of LA’s top destinations are spread out. Below are some must-see attractions and essential driving tips to navigate the City of Angels.
✅ Hollywood & Walk of Fame
No trip to LA is complete without a visit to Hollywood. Stroll along the Walk of Fame, visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, or hike up to the Griffith Observatory for incredible views of the Hollywood Sign. Parking in Hollywood can be pricey, so look for public garages or park a few blocks away for cheaper options.
✅ Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach
The Santa Monica Pier is home to an amusement park, shops, and oceanfront dining. Just a short drive away, Venice Beach is known for its lively boardwalk, Muscle Beach gym, and unique street performers. Parking lots are available, but they fill up fast—especially on weekends.
✅ Rodeo Drive & Beverly Hills
For a luxurious shopping experience, drive to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, where you’ll find high-end boutiques and famous designer stores. Beverly Hills also offers scenic palm tree-lined streets, perfect for a leisurely drive.
✅ Universal Studios Hollywood
A must-visit for movie lovers, Universal Studios offers thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes experiences. There’s plenty of on-site parking, but it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season.
✅ Downtown LA & The Arts District
Explore The Broad Museum, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the lively Arts District, home to colorful murals, trendy cafes, and galleries. Traffic in Downtown LA can be heavy, so plan accordingly and use public parking garages.
✅ Griffith Observatory & Los Angeles Views
For one of the best panoramic views of LA, head to Griffith Observatory. It’s free to enter, but parking is limited. Consider taking a short hike up if parking is full.
✅ Malibu & the Pacific Coast Highway
Take a scenic drive along the famous Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Malibu, where you can relax at Zuma Beach or visit the stunning El Matador State Beach. The coastal views make this one of the best road trip routes in California.
✅ Disneyland (Anaheim) (45-minute drive)
If you have time, Disneyland is a must-visit for families and Disney fans. Located in Anaheim, it’s about a 45-minute drive from LA, but allow extra time for traffic.
Where to collect your car?
Your Booking will be serviced by Green Motion Los Angeles Airport. Read full instructions above on this page!
Side of road
Drive on the right side of the road
Local currency
US Dollar ($)
Average temperatures
13°C (55°F) - 22°C (72°F)
Nearest Gas Station
Chevron (9601 Airport Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045) – 1 mile from LAX.
Nearest Train Station
Aviation/LAX Metro Rail Station – 2 miles from the airport.
Nearest Vus Station
LAX City Bus Center – serves multiple transit options including LA Metro buses.
Do I need a car when I visit LA?
Yes, renting a car in Los Angeles is highly recommended. While the city has public transportation, it is not as extensive or efficient as in cities like New York. LA is very spread out, and most attractions, beaches, and scenic drives are best reached by car.
How to deal with LA traffic?
LA traffic is notorious, so plan accordingly. Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to check real-time traffic updates and find alternate routes. Try to avoid driving during peak rush hours (7-10 AM and 3-7 PM). Carpool lanes (HOV lanes) can help save time if you have multiple passengers.
What time is LA traffic the worst?
Traffic in LA is heaviest during weekday rush hours: Morning rush hour: 7 AM - 10 AM Evening rush hour: 3 PM - 7 PM Fridays can have even worse traffic, especially in the afternoon.
Does LA have a lot of tolls?
Most roads in Los Angeles are toll-free, but there are some toll roads in Orange County and express lanes (like on the 110 and 10 freeways) that require a FasTrak transponder or a one-time payment online.
Can you turn right on red in LA?
Yes, unless there is a sign stating otherwise, you can turn right on a red light after coming to a full stop and yielding to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
What is the difference between the 405 and the 101?
The 405 (San Diego Freeway): Runs north-south along the west side of LA, connecting cities like Long Beach, LAX, and the San Fernando Valley. It is infamous for heavy traffic. The 101 (Hollywood Freeway/Ventura Freeway): Runs northwest-southeast through central LA, passing through Hollywood and connecting to Ventura County. It’s a major route for commuters and travelers heading toward Northern California.
How's parking in LA?
Parking can be challenging in busy areas like Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica. Many places have metered parking, parking garages, or valet services. Always check street signs for parking restrictions, especially for street cleaning or permit-only zones. Apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero can help find available parking spots.