Car rental at Bakersfield South

Car Rental in Bakersfield South

Compare 2 providers in downtown Bakersfield. Grab the keys and explore.

Find available cars now Quick guide (2 min)
LocationCity Center
Providers2
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Compare 2 options ⚡ Instant results 🧾 Transparent pricing ⭐ Flexible booking

Quick answer: At Bakersfield South you can compare rental cars from 2 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.
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About Renting a Car at Bakersfield South

Southern Bakersfield has 2 rental companies along White Lane and South Union Avenue, an area dominated by large shopping centers and fast-food restaurants. From here, it's easy to access CA-99 toward Fresno (175 km north) or Los Angeles (180 km south). The location is perfect for travelers passing through San Joaquin Valley.

Southern Bakersfield borders Lamont and forms the city's commercial southern corridor. Oildale and the Kern River valley with its fishing spots are located 15 km north, while Arvin with its vineyards is reached in 20 minutes to the east. Southern Bakersfield is a good stop if you're driving along CA-99 and need to change or upgrade your car.

Visit Temblor Range to the west for a unique desert safari – just 40 km via CA-33. Avoid driving on CA-99 late on Friday evenings when traffic from LA commuters is heavy. Is Southern Bakersfield close to the airport?

Meadows Field Airport is approximately 20 km north, about 20 minutes' drive via CA-99. Can I pick up a car in Southern Bakersfield and return it in Fresno? This is possible with some rental companies for an additional fee – check the terms when booking.

What is there to see near Southern Bakersfield? Hart Memorial Park (5 km), Kern County Raceway (15 km), and the historic oil fields along CA-33 are popular attractions.

We compare prices from all major providers at Bakersfield South so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What to Know Before Renting in Bakersfield South

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of USA – California. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Bakersfield South

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Avis
Budget

Essential Info for Renting at Bakersfield South

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Bakersfield South you can compare rentals from 2 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in USA – California ▼

In USA – California you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 65 km/h
  • Motorway: 105 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,08 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking can be expensive in cities, always check signs for fees.

Road tolls: Check if din hyrbil haves en transponder for enkel betalning.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Bakersfield South

Which rental companies are available at Bakersfield South?▼
You can compare 2 rental companies at Bakersfield South on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in USA – California?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Bakersfield South?▼
The minimum age to rent in USA – California is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in USA – California?▼
In USA – California you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 65 km/h on rural roads and 105 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Bakersfield South you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Bakersfield South use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Bakersfield South?▼
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Bakersfield South

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Other Rental Locations Near Bakersfield South

Rent a Car Near Bakersfield South

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