Car Rentals in Petaluma, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Petaluma

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Petaluma, California, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Petaluma, California, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Petaluma, California, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Petaluma, California, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Petaluma car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Petaluma

Renting a car in and around Petaluma offers the freedom to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain a flexible travel plan, making it ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Key attractions within Petaluma include the Petaluma Arts Center for cultural experiences, the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue for eco-friendly adventures, and The Petaluma Historical Library & Museum showcasing local history. Beyond Petaluma, a car allows you to visit nearby cities effortlessly. Santa Rosa, located 24 km away, features the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. Just 17 km from Petaluma, Sonoma offers the picturesque Sonoma Plaza and the famous Napa Valley Wine Train. Additionally, Rohnert Park is a mere 15 km away, where you can enjoy the Spreckels Performing Arts Center. Whether you're an art lover, nature enthusiast, or history buff, having a rental car opens up a world of possibilities for exploration and adventure.

Where to stay around Petaluma

  • Santa Rosa: Located 24 km from Petaluma, Santa Rosa is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Explore the renowned Sonoma County Fairgrounds and the Charles M. Schulz Museum for culture enthusiasts. Nature lovers can venture to the Petrified Forest or enjoy the beautiful river nearby. The city also offers excellent dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a suitable choice for a culinary experience.
  • Sonoma: Just 17 km from Petaluma, Sonoma is a vibrant city perfect for families and outdoor activities. Experience the charm of Sonoma Plaza, a lovely piazza square featuring various attractions. For those interested in motorsports, the Sonoma Raceway offers exciting events. Nearby, the Napa Valley Wine Train provides a unique cultural experience. With its local wineries and diverse restaurants, Sonoma is an excellent spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
  • Rohnert Park: Located 15 km from Petaluma, Rohnert Park is a city with a romantic and city-themed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the Spreckels Performing Arts Center for cultural experiences, and the Sonoma County Fairgrounds for family-friendly fun. The area also has modern college facilities and beautiful beaches nearby. With a range of dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, Rohnert Park offers a delightful stay for those looking to explore the region.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Petaluma

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you are required to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, although this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides additional peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
Our best deal of the day:
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From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Petaluma?
Car hire in Petaluma had a low daily rate of just within the past seven days. At prices like this, you'll be zipping around in a cool set of wheels with cash to spare.
Can I hire a car from Sonoma County Airport (STS)?
Touch down at Sonoma County Airport (STS) and then head to Hertz or Sixt, a quick commute away. You'll be exploring the sights and sounds of Petaluma in your rental in next to no time.
What happens if I need to cancel my Petaluma car reservation?
There are always times when plans are turned on their head. That's why we give your money back on most prepaid reservations if you let us know a minimum of six hours ahead of collecting the car. Be sure to double-check your policy — there are some cases where it's not available. Can't find the details there? Our Customer Service Portal is always available to help.
What types of cars can I rent in Petaluma?
Premium, full-size, intermediate... Whatever you prefer! However, compact models are the top pick in Petaluma. If you're after something economical and small, but not too small, this category of rental vehicle is the perfect choice. Navigating bustling streets will be easy in one of these. Compact vehicles are slightly roomier than economy models and are suited to families on a budget, couples or solo travellers.
Where can I go on a road trip from Petaluma?
When you've visited all of the interesting sights in Petaluma, there's plenty more to see in the surrounding region. Collect the keys to a rental car, stow your bags in the trunk and get going. We've pulled together some drives we know you'll love:
  • Make tracks to San Francisco for a fantastic sightseeing experience. Around 35 miles from Petaluma, it's home to many amazing sights such as Pier 39.
  • Around 60 miles away, Palo Alto is also popular with travellers. Be sure to get to Stanford University while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love this colourful city.
  • Make your way to Glacier Point to rediscover nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just sit and unwind. From Petaluma, it's roughly 170 miles away.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Petaluma with Expedia?
Browse our huge selection of rental cars, check out customer recommendations and compare offers from popular suppliers. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you score the best deal on your wheels. Got a hotel or flight booking? Add on your Petaluma car hire and save even more.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Petaluma?
Hire car rules in Petaluma require drivers to be 21 and above. Are you a younger driver? Surcharges and restrictions could apply. Hire providers impose what's known as a young driver surcharge, which is an extra fee to the hire car cost. Restrictions generally apply to the classes of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may differ between companies, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Petaluma?
Generally, all that's required is a driver's license and credit card in your name when picking up the keys to your car. Proof of coverage may also be required if you choose to opt out of the company's insurance policy. Requirements are likely to differ between providers, so remember to check before you book.
What is the cheapest car hire in Petaluma?
Petaluma has no doubt had some happy rental car drivers lately. Daily rates within the past seven days dropped as low as and . These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Petaluma?
Yes. We partner with quality providers that offer long-term hires for all car types. Check out our long-term car hire deals and explore every bit of Petaluma — or way beyond!
Where can I find a Petaluma hire car if I am younger than 25?
Hiring a vehicle if you are under 25 in Petaluma often depends on the hire provider you choose. Some outlets apply a surcharge for drivers aged between 21 and 24 years, but others may not have any extra fees for this age group. Ensure you go through the terms and conditions of your selected rental company to avoid any surprise charges on pick-up.
Can I drive in Petaluma with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a license from the United States, you may be required to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before hiring a car in the U.S. If you find that an IDP is required for you to drive in the U.S, be aware that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card that was used to hire the car must match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Some additional requirements for hiring a car in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in many states in order to hire a car, although in some places, the minimum age is 21 years. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as with the hired car company before you book to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Read the fine print before you drive off the lot to avoid unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the United States, you typically can't cross country borders into Canada or Mexico, use car ferries or traverse certain types of rugged terrain with your hire car. Please read all the rules and regulations before booking!
Why should I rent a Petaluma car with Expedia?
From exclusive offers and member prices to our awesome package deals, there are plenty of reasons to rent your next car with Expedia. On your way to Petaluma? There are multiple hire companies to select from, with loads of vehicles to suit every style and budget. If you want to save more, bundle your rental car with your flights and hotel. Ready to hop behind the wheel? We're ready to get you on your way. Plus, when you join our One Key™ loyalty programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and redeem it on eligible flights, activities, hotels and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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