Oakland is a popular tourist destination for both locals and foreigners alike. From Lake Merritt to The Chabot Science & Space Center and Oakland Zoo, there’s plenty to see when visiting this beautiful coastal city. With rental cars in Oakland, you can easily navigate the John B. Williams Freeway as well as Nimitz Freeway, which are the two major roads that connect different parts of Oakland. For a relaxed experience when visiting Oakland, it is recommended to book car rentals in Oakland. Although public transportation is available, taking the bus or train doesn’t give you the kind of freedom you get with a cheap car rental in Oakland. The only challenge would be finding free street parking, but there are many metered parking spots all over town that charge fair prices.
Is it worthwhile renting a car while visiting Oakland?
The simple answer would be yes, it is worthwhile. With a rental car in Oakland, you can easily connect to different parts of Oakland, such as Lake Merritt and Oakland Zoo. However, it is worth noting that some roads can get packed during peak hours, so be sure to factor that in when planning your itinerary. Despite free parking being quite difficult to find, there are plenty of metered parking areas where you can leave your car. It is also worth pointing out that Oakland isn’t walkable, so a rental would be a good way to get around. An added advantage is that you’ll be able to visit the beautiful San Francisco Botanical Garden and Alcatraz Island in neighboring San Francisco, which is just across the Bay Bridge. Lastly, you have so many options when it comes to car rentals in Oakland because you can choose from electric car rentals, luxury car rentals, passenger van rental, or economy car rental, depending on what you’re looking for.
What different driving laws should I keep in mind while driving in Oakland?
Traffic laws in Oakland aren’t any different from other cities in California, but could vary slightly compared to other states in the country. For example, cyclists are allowed to travel straight through a right or left-hand turn-only lane. For this reason, you should always be alert and expect anything while driving through intersections with your car rentals in Oakland to avoid any accidents. Additionally, passengers aren’t allowed to ingest or smoke cannabis while in a rented vehicle. Even if the driver isn’t smoking some, you will still be taken as an accessory to the crime. If in any doubt, make sure you check with California’s Department of Motor Vehicles for the most recent traffic law changes. The use of cell phones while driving is prohibited in Oakland, CA, and can only be used in emergencies. Drivers must yield to emergency vehicles by moving over one lane if possible. Carpool lanes are available for two or more passengers only. Littering while driving is prohibited and is strictly enforced. Oakland also has many traffic circles, and drivers must yield to oncoming cars that have the right away, and must never stop in the middle of a traffic circle.
Can I cross the border with a rental car from Oakland?
For car rentals in Oakland, you can drive the car across U.S. borders, but there are a few things to know. Customs agents will want to know if you are in the country temporarily or permanently, so make certain your intent is clear on how long you’ll stay. For Oakland car rentals, you must let your car company know you are taking the vehicle across the border. Be sure to check with your company, as some don’t allow a car to be driven over a border. For car rentals in Oakland, you must have insurance on the vehicle and have a valid driver’s license and a passport. It is also mandatory that you provide proof of registration listed on the rental agreement.
Can you rent a rental car in Oakland without a credit card?
For car rentals in Oakland, there are options for renting without a credit card. Economy car rentals in Oakland require a deposit, and most companies ask that drivers get a Cash Deposit Identification (ID) Card. Some companies might offer other cash options, so be sure to check with the company for their particular rules regarding using cash. The rental car company will provide information on how to obtain a cash card with a simple application. Oakland car rentals are also available by using a credit or debit card. Drivers must show a valid driver’s license that matches the credit or debit card’s name, and another card or passport with the same name. Keep in mind that a hold will be placed on the card used until the electric car rental is returned, so if using a debit card, that amount will be held in your bank account. Drivers must also be 20 years old to rent a car, and only the driver listed on the agreement may drive the car.
What documents do you need to rent a car in Oakland?
For Oakland car rentals, there are a few things to know to be able to rent a car. As long as you have a valid driver’s license issued by the state department of motor vehicles, you will be able to get Oakland car rentals. However, the license shouldn’t have an expiration date that comes during the duration of your rental agreement. If you are not a resident of the US or Canada, a valid license from your home country should be enough. Some rental car companies require drivers to be 25 or older, and they charge a surcharge for younger drivers. Temporary permits are allowed if they are valid. Drivers must have satisfactory driving records, and you might be asked to sign a declaration that states your driving record is reputable. It’s a good idea to have a passport with you at the time of your rental, as some companies might ask for other proof of identification. The name on the passport must match the name on the driver’s license. While some companies allow car rentals in Oakland to be rented using cash, most require a debit or credit card. Keep in mind that when using a credit card, they might ask for two forms of identification. There is also a hold on the card until the rental car is returned.