Question 1

What is the cheapest car to rent in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable car to rent in Santa Maria is a Economy (Honda Fit), with the latest price we found at CA$70 per day.

Question 2

What is the deposit amount for a car rental in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

The deposit amount required for a car rental in Santa Maria varies depending on the type of vehicle you choose and the rental company's policies. This deposit is generally held on your credit card to cover any potential additional charges or damages. To ensure you are aware of the exact deposit amount and any other associated costs, check the details during the booking process. This information is usually provided on the booking site. Additionally, be aware that the deposit will be refunded to your card after the car is returned, provided there are no extra charges or damages.

Question 3

Can another person drive my rental vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, another person can drive your rent vehicle, but they must be authorised by the rental company. Typically, you need to add them as an additional driver when booking or picking up the car. There may be an extra fee for adding additional drivers, and they must meet the same age and driving licence requirements as the primary driver. Check with the car rental company for specific terms and conditions.

Question 4

What should I do if I damage a car rental car in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

If you damage a rent car in Santa Maria, the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) typically covers the cost of repairs. To avoid additional expenses, make sure your insurance policy includes zero excess coverage. If your CDW has an excess limit, you'll be responsible for paying part of the repair costs, which is usually deducted from the deposit you provided when renting the car. For specific details on coverage and potential charges, it's best to check your rental agreement and insurance policy before you drive.

Question 5

What are the requirements for renting a car in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

To rent a car in Santa Maria, you must meet several key requirements. These include being at least 21 years old, presenting a valid driver’s license, and providing a major credit card (such as Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) for payment and security purposes. Additionally, proof of insurance or the option to purchase insurance coverage from the rental company may be required. Insurance options can vary by location, so it's important to verify the details with the rental company ahead of time. Be sure to review any additional documentation or requirements specific to the car rental location.

Question 6

What is a one-way fee?

Accepted Answer

A one-way fee is applied when you return your rental car to a different location than where you originally picked it up. This fee helps cover the cost of relocating the vehicle back to its starting point. The amount of the one-way fee varies depending on the locations involved and the rental company's policies. Be sure to check the fee details when booking your rental to understand any additional charges that may apply.

Question 7

What are the most popular car brands for rent in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

In Santa Maria, the top car brands frequently chosen by renters include Honda Fit, Kia Soul, Chevrolet Cruze, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Elantra, and Tesla. These models are popular for their dependability and comfort, whether you're planning a quick trip or an extended journey.

Question 8

What is the process for returning a car in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

To return a car in Santa Maria station, ensure that the vehicle is in the same condition as when you rented it and that the fuel tank is full. Follow the signs to the designated return area at the car rental location. If you need to return the vehicle outside of regular business hours, look for any instructions or an after-hours drop-off box at the return area. It’s a good idea to confirm with the car rental company beforehand about their off-hour procedures to ensure a smooth return process. Be sure to complete any required paperwork or check-in steps as instructed.

Question 9

What is the best car rental company in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

If you're looking for the best car rental company in Santa Maria, Unidas is highly recommended by travelers. It boasts a 4.6 rating based on key factors like cleanliness, customer service, and overall value. The best rate we found for Unidas is  per day. For the most affordable options, AVIS offers the lowest prices we’ve seen recently, starting at CA$70 per day.

Question 10

Is renting a car for a week in Santa Maria more cost-effective?

Accepted Answer

Renting a car for a week in Santa Maria can sometimes be more cost-effective than renting for a shorter period, as many car rental companies offer weekly rates that provide better value. To ensure you get the best deal, it’s advisable to compare rates and check for any available discounts or promotions during the booking process. Always review the pricing details carefully before finalizing your reservation.

Question 11

Can I rent a van in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can rent a van in Santa Maria. Rental companies typically offer a variety of vans to suit different needs, including compact vans for city driving, mid-size vans for medium loads or small groups, large cargo vans for moving big items, and passenger vans that can accommodate up to 12-15 people.

Question 12

How much does car rental insurance cost in Santa Maria?

Accepted Answer

The cost of car rental insurance in Santa Maria can vary depending on the type of coverage you choose and the car rental company. Generally, basic insurance might cost around £10-£20 per day, while more comprehensive coverage, including Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection, can be higher. For precise pricing and to compare options, check the insurance details offered by providers on our website, VoyageCopilot.com.

Car Rental Company	Telephone	Pickup Type	Location
Hertz	8059284409	Desk in terminal	Santa Maria Central Coast Jet Center, 1211 Citation Court
Hertz	18052004868	Desk in terminal	3249 TERMINAL DR
AVIS	805-922-4533	Desk in terminal	Santa Maria Public Airport - Avis - Santa Maria, 3249 Skyway Drive Santa Maria Public Airport
Budget	805-922-3113	Desk in terminal	3249 Terminal Drive Santa Maria Airport Terminal
AVIS	805-922-4533	Desk in terminal	3249 Skyway Drive Santa Maria Public Airport
AVIS		Desk in terminal	Santa Maria Public Airport Captain G Allan Hancock Field, 3249, Skyway Drive, Santa Maria, USA, 93455

Car Rental Company	Telephone	Pickup Type	Location
Enterprise	8053499552	check_when_booking	1738 S BROADWAY
Budget	805-922-2158	check_when_booking	1730 South Broadway
Budget	805-922-2158	check_when_booking	Santa Maria, 1730 South Broadway

Car Rental in Santa Maria, United States

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Cheap Car Rental Deals in Santa Maria

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Hiring a Car in Santa Maria: Good to Know

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How to Find the Cheap Car Rental Deal in Santa Maria

Check license and age requirements.

Familiarize Yourself with the Vehicle

Check for Free Cancellation Policies

Understand Rental Insurance Options

Understand Mileage Policies

Stay Informed About Local Driving Laws

Add a Second Driver

Use Navigation Apps

Find Cheap Car Rental Deals from Santa Maria: FAQs