Car rental Berkeley, CA

Top tips for renting a car in Berkeley

Between the campus crowds, winding hillside roads, and weekend getaways calling your name, having a rental car in Berkeley gives you flexibility and freedom. But driving here isn't entirely cruise control — here's what to keep in mind before you hit the road.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Berkeley?

City speed limits typically range from 20–25 miles per hour (mph), especially in areas with high pedestrian activity like Shattuck Avenue, and around the UC Berkeley campus. Freeways like the I-80 or Highway 24 may allow you to go up to 65–70 mph, but they can get congested quickly — especially during Bay Bridge commute hours or Cal football game days.

Berkeley is famously pedestrian-first, so expect plenty of crosswalk activity and foot traffic, especially near Sproul Plaza and the BART. Many drivers yield even outside of marked crossings, so stay alert — and don't be surprised by cyclists weaving through traffic or darting between lanes.

As for conditions, Bay Area weather is mild year-round, but fog can roll in unexpectedly, especially if you're headed west toward Grizzly Peak or down the coast. Roads through the Berkeley Hills may be narrow, winding, or shaded — which can make them slick after rain. In more wooded areas, it's not unheard of to spot wild turkeys, deer, or even the occasional raccoon crossing early in the morning or at dusk, so keep an eye out.

What is parking like in Berkeley?

Parking conditions can vary in Berkeley, especially near UC Berkeley, in the downtown area, or on streets like Kittredge and Milvia during peak hours. Street parking is limited and often permit-only in residential zones, so you will need to read signage carefully to avoid tickets or being towed.

For a smoother experience, head to garages like the Center Street Garage or Oxford Garage, where you're just steps from the shops, restaurants, and the BART. Keep an eye out for free parking with certain meters after 6 pm or on Sundays — perfect if you're catching dinner downtown, or headed to a show at the Berkeley Repertory Theater.

Are there toll roads in Berkeley?

While Berkeley itself doesn't have toll roads, crossing the Bay Bridge into San Fran will cost you. Other bridges, like the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge or San Mateo-Hayward Bridge, also charge tolls — all of which are cashless. If your adventure takes you down the coast or into wine country, check Google Maps for toll alerts.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Berkeley?

You won't have to search far for fuel in Berkeley — University Avenue, San Pablo Avenue, and Ashby Avenue have several gas stations.

If you're driving electric, you're in luck since this city is known for its sustainable push, so EV chargers are available everywhere. Look in places like the Center Street Parking Garage, Oxford Garage, Telegraph-Channing Garage, and near major retail areas like Fourth Street and Shattuck Avenue. Just remember to top up before heading into less-populated areas like the Berkeley Hills or Tilden Park, where chargers may be sparse.

Do I need to rent a car in Berkeley?

If your trip includes weekend escapes to Muir Woods, Point Reyes, Napa Valley, or even just a spontaneous hike in Tilden Park, a rental car is a total game-changer. You can load up bikes, beach gear, or camping supplies and take off on your own terms.

With scenic coastal drives, wine country backroads, and mountain trails nearby, having your own wheels turns a standard stay into a full-on NorCal adventure.