Ultimate Guide to Driving in Los Angeles – Tips from a Local
Driving in Los Angeles can feel like you’ve signed up for an extreme sport—think high speeds, sudden stops, and a freeway system that looks like a plate of spaghetti!
I get it because I’ve been there. I started driving in LA when I was 20 years old, as a sophomore in college, back in 2009.
Since then, I’ve spent over 15 years navigating every corner of this city—whether it’s braving the 405 at rush hour or making the trek from Marina del Rey to Pasadena more times than I can count.
I’ve sat in more traffic than I ever thought was humanly possible!
In LA, even going two miles can take 30 minutes. But with a little know-how, you can handle LA’s roads like a pro.
This guide will help you navigate LA’s infamous streets, from understanding the freeways to parking tips, and even the best times to hit the road.
Let’s make driving in LA just a little less stressful and a lot more manageable!
Renting a Car in Los Angeles
Renting a car in LA gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Public transportation is slow, and many must-see spots aren’t easily reached without a car.
With a rental, you can visit the best attractions, take scenic drives, and avoid waiting for buses or ride-shares. It’s the easiest way to save time and make the most of your LA trip!
LA’s Freeway System, Explained
Understanding LA’s Freeways
The city’s major arteries—the 405, the 101, the 10, and the 5—each come with their own quirks and personalities.
The 405 (aka the “San Diego Freeway”) is infamous for turning into a parking lot at almost any time of day.
The 101 (the “Hollywood Freeway”) snakes through the city, connecting the Valley to Hollywood and downtown. This freeway frequently gets a lot of traffic.
The 10 (the “Santa Monica Freeway”) is the main west-to-east route, connecting the beach to downtown LA. In my opinion, traffic on the 10 can be lighter than the other freeways, but it’s still a gamble. 🤷♀️
And the 5 (the “Golden State Freeway”) runs north-south. It’s actually the longest interstate in California, running almost 800 miles from San Ysidro in SoCal all the way to the Oregon state line.
Navigating Freeway Interchanges
There are a few difficult and accident-prone interchanges in Los Angeles. You can try to avoid these if you want, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to work your way around them, unless you anticipate them and exit before reaching the interchange.
People say the most difficult interchange is where the 110 and 105 connect, also known as the Harry Pregerson Interchange (pictured above).
The Los Angeles Times called it the “biggest, tallest, most costly traffic structure yet built by California Department of Transportation.”
Personally, I always find driving tricky when the 110 merges with other downtown entrances and exits, right before the 10. Traffic always slows down here because cars are changing lanes at different speeds. It’s right before the Wilshire Blvd., 4th St, and 3rd St. exits.
Many people also find the lane change difficult going south on the 405 before the 10, where traffic tends to slow down.
Toll Roads in LA
Toll roads are relatively rare in LA, but they exist. The 110 Express Lanes and 10 Express Lanes are the main toll roads in the city.
These tolls are usually paid through the FasTrak system, so it’s a good idea to get a FasTrak transponder if you’re planning on using these routes regularly.
Your rental car might come with one — you can call your rental company beforehand and ask if it’s included.
Important Driving Rules in Los Angeles
Speed Limits
In Los Angeles, the speed limit is more of a guideline than a rule—especially on the freeways. Here’s what you need to know.
On most LA freeways, the speed limit is 65 mph, although some sections drop to 55 mph.
Surface streets usually have speed limits ranging from 25 to 35 mph.
Keep in mind, though, that driving exactly the speed limit can make you the slowest car on the road. Above all, follow the flow of traffic.
The left lane is typically the fastest lane on the freeway, and people tend to go over the speed limit.
If you do not feel comfortable driving fast, I suggest staying in the right hand lanes, although you will need to deal with merging traffic in those lanes.
Watch out, don’t get distracted, and practice defensive driving.
Understanding Carpool & Express Lanes
The carpool lane (or HOV lane) might seem a bit confusing. In Los Angeles, it can be in the far-left lane on the freeway, reserved for vehicles with two or more people (sometimes three) during peak hours.
If you’re driving solo, don’t even think about using it—getting caught can result in a hefty fine, sometimes over $400!
Carpool lanes are marked by diamonds painted on the road, and there will be signs overhead telling you when the lane restrictions apply. In most areas, they’re enforced during rush hour (typically 6 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.), but double-check the signs, because the rules can vary.
One thing you definitely want to know — you can’t just enter or exit the carpool lane whenever you want. The solid double lines mean that’s not an option.
Wait until the lines break into a dashed pattern, which indicates it’s safe (and legal) to merge in or out.
If you have a FasTrak transponder, you might notice Express Lanes that allow solo drivers to pay a toll to use the carpool lane. This little device attaches to your windshield and automatically deducts toll fees when you drive on toll roads or Express Lanes.
It’s perfect for getting through heavy traffic—just make sure you set it to “solo” or “carpool” mode, depending on how many passengers you have, so you’re charged the correct amount.
Cell Phone Usage While Driving
California is strict about hands-free devices while driving.
It’s illegal to hold your phone while behind the wheel. This means no texting, no scrolling, and definitely no snapping selfies!
Other Important Driving Laws
Obviously, do not drive under the influence of alcohol or marijuana.
Yield to pedestrians, even if they are jaywalking. It happens more often than you might think.
Watch out for people crossing the street within the pedestrian lines when it’s not their turn to walk (i.e. when you have the green and they have a red light).
Wear a seat belt! They save lives.
You can turn right on red in LA unless marked by a sign. However, make sure it’s not a rolling stop, otherwise, you could get a ticket. Fully stop before making your turn.
Don’t pay attention to people honking and pressuring you to make a turn or speed up. I find that drivers are pretty good most of the time in LA, but I’ll still get the occasional impatient person or two behind me.
Like any city, there are some dangerous drivers on the freeways who drive fast and cut in between lanes. Be watchful at all times of the day.
Worst Time of Day to Drive in LA
If you’re driving in LA, rush hour is going to be your biggest hurdle.
Traffic is at its worst between 7am. – 10am. and 4pm – 7p.m., especially on major freeways like the 405, 101, and 10, and side streets, too.
Morning traffic is brutal heading into Downtown LA or towards business hubs like Santa Monica and Burbank. Expect bumper-to-bumper traffic on these routes.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been sitting on the freeway at a standstill, wasting hours of my life away, twiddling my thumbs and bored out of my mind on the road!
You’ll also want to consider holidays or citywide events. People tend to leave the city for Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Don’t forget the LA Marathon happens annually in March, shutting down roads for nearly half the day.
If you’re driving in Los Angeles during your trip, you’ll have to face the facts – you’re going to hit traffic at some point. It’s unavoidable!
However, there are a few ways you can minimize your time spent in traffic and drive like a local in LA.
Tips on How to Beat Traffic in LA
To avoid the worst of LA traffic, plan your trips outside of rush hours whenever possible.
Welcome to LA, where we plan our day around traffic — not the weather!
I usually prefer to leave my driving in LA until after 10:30am.
If you can drive in LA late at night, the roads are usually clear. But don’t be surprised if there’s construction, and the freeway goes down to one lane at 11:00 pm. That’s happened to me too many times to count!
I’d also recommend using Waze—it’s a lifesaver in LA! It often suggests routes that take you through side streets, which might mean crossing major roads like Olympic Blvd. or Wilshire Blvd for example.
Be patient and careful when doing this, as you’ll need to wait for just the right moment to dart across a break in the traffic.
It’s a good idea to double-check you have the right address before hitting ‘go’ on your navigation app. There can sometimes be roads with very similar names.
For example, LA somehow ended up with 37th Street, 37th Drive, and 37th Place – which happen to be three parallel roads in Exposition Park.
Also, keep in mind that taking surface streets is not necessarily faster than taking the freeway. I generally plug my address into Waze and let it tell me where to go.
🚗 Make the most your LA experience! Rent a car for the freedom to explore all the city has to offer. Compare rental options and book now!
Where to Stay in LA to Minimize Traffic
If you already have an itinerary of things to do in LA during your stay, I suggest choosing a hotel close to the majority of the attractions you want to see.
If you want to spend the majority of your time at the beach, it’s worth it to splurge a bit on a hotel that’s near the beach so you can spend more time on the sand and less time sitting in your car. I’d recommend Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, Beach House Hotel at Hermosa Beach, or Hotel Erwin in Venice Beach.
If you want an urban feel and access to the most museums, stay in Koreatown at The Line Hotel or at one of the many hotels in Downtown LA. I recommend Freehand Los Angeles on a budget or Conrad Los Angeles for a boutique experience.
For more tips on where to stay in LA, check out my post on my favorite boutique hotels in the city.
Parking in Los Angeles
Parking can be tough depending on where you are in the city. Be prepared to pay upwards of $15-30 for garage or lot parking if you’re in downtown, West Hollywood, or another dense part of the city.
One of my best tips for driving in Los Angeles is always trying to search for parking in a neighborhood before I commit to paying for a spot. But keep an eye out for parking restrictions and street cleanings.
Most parking meters in Los Angeles accept credit cards nowadays. You don’t need to carry coins anymore.
Street Parking
I hope you’re comfortable with street parking! I frequently park on the street in LA and usually don’t have any issues, but be sure to ALWAYS read the sign to check parking restrictions.
The meter maids give out parking tickets like crazy – and they’re expensive. You’ll get fined upwards of $60 and $70 if your meter runs out or if part of your car is in the red.
Your car might even get towed if you’re blocking a driveway. Don’t let this happen on your vacation. I got towed in my own neighborhood once, and it cost me over $300 to get my car back.
Also, if you’re rusty on your parallel parking skills, you might want to brush up on them before arriving because you’ll be doing it a lot in this city!
It’s helpful to know about the curb colors when you’re looking for parking in the city.
A quick rundown:
- Red curbs: No parking, ever. Not even for a minute.
- Yellow curbs: For commercial loading and unloading only.
- Green curbs: Short-term parking, typically 15-30 minutes.
- Blue curbs: Reserved for those with disabled placards.
- White curbs: Passenger loading/unloading, usually for a few minutes.
Parking Garages and Lots
If street parking feels too stressful, opt for parking garages or lots, especially near busy areas.
For Downtown LA, try the Pershing Square Garage or The Music Center Garage—both central and reasonably priced.
Heading to Hollywood? I usually park at Hollywood & Highland Center (now called Ovation). It’s right by the Walk of Fame.
In Santa Monica, the Santa Monica Place parking structures near 3rd Street Promenade are convenient and just steps from the beach. If you’re going to the beach, I would recommend parking in the city structures and walking your way down.
Beverly Hills has several city parking structures that offer the first two hours free. On Sundays, if you park in the structures labeled SM-1, SM-2, and SM-3 on Beverly Dr., Rodeo Dr., and Camden Dr., respectively, near Santa Monica Blvd., you can park for free all day.
Parking Apps
You could use a parking app to help you find parking in Los Angeles.
Apps like ParkMobile, SpotHero, and Parker allow you to search for available spots, reserve them in advance, and pay directly from your phone.
Some even give you reminders when your time’s almost up—saving you from a ticket!
Getting Around Los Angeles Without a Car
Public Transportation in LA
If you’d rather skip the stress of LA traffic and don’t want to rent a car, public transportation is an option.
If you are only in LA for three days or less, I think it’s worth it to rent a car instead of taking transit, which often takes more time than driving. Without a car, you’ll end up spending more time on the bus or metro than enjoying your vacation.
However, if you are set on taking public transportation, it’s easier if you stay at a hotel east of the 405, in neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Hollywood, and Koreatown.
The LA Metro system includes buses and rail lines that connect many parts of the city, although not all of it. I would say that as a tourist in Los Angeles, you’ll be taking the A, B, and D lines to get to most places in LA.
You can also take the bus, which covers more of the city, but the bus is often late or slow because of the bad traffic.
Download the Transit app to help you navigate the LA metro. If you are looking for transportation out of LA, check out my guide to getting from LA to Palm Springs.
Ride-Sharing Services
In Los Angeles, Uber and Lyft are also ridesharing options. But the cost of using ridesharing will add up quickly.
Be prepared for surge pricing during peak hours or major events!
Safety First: Emergency Tips
What to Do in an Accident
Although unlikely, accidents do happen. If you get into an accident while you’re driving in LA, the first thing to do is stay calm and assess the situation.
If your car is driveable, move it to a safe spot out of the way of traffic. If anyone is hurt, call 911.
Once everyone is safe, exchange information with the other driver, including your driver’s license, insurance details, and contact info. It’s also a good idea to document the scene by taking photos of the damage, license plates, and the surroundings.
This can help with insurance claims later. If the damage is significant or there are injuries, you’ll need to file a report with either the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or the LAPD.
Emergency Numbers
In case of an emergency, here are key contacts to have on hand:
- 911 for serious accidents or injuries.
- California Highway Patrol (CHP): 1-800-TELL-CHP (835-5247) for non-emergencies or roadside assistance.
- AAA (if you’re a member): 1-800-400-4222 for towing or roadside help.
Always keep these numbers saved on your phone—you never know when LA traffic might throw you a curveball!
Scenic Drives and Road Trips from LA
Must-See Scenic Routes
When it comes to scenic drives, LA has some of the best. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a must-see. You’ll get absolutely GORGEOUS views of the coastline from Santa Monica to Malibu and beyond.
You can drive along cliffsides, stop at beautiful beaches like Zuma (or check out one of my favorite hidden beaches in LA), and stop for lunch at Malibu Seafood.
You can also check out Mulholland Drive, one of LA’s most scenic drives. You’ll get beautiful views of the city, the Hollywood Hills, and the Pacific (on a clear day). Be prepared for a winding, breathtaking ride! There are plenty of pull-offs for opportunities to take panoramic photos.
Day Trips from LA
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, you can easily make a road trip to Santa Barbara. Without traffic, it’s a two-hour drive to Santa Barbara.
You can also get to Santa Barbara by Amtrak train if you decide to leave your rental car at your hotel.
For something more desert-like, head east to Palm Springs, about a 2.5-hour drive (without traffic). You’ll love its unique mid-century modern charm!
While you’re driving on the 10 freeway getting into town, you could stop by the Cabazon Dinosaurs, a highly Instagrammable photo opp.
It’s also possible to visit San Diego by car for a day trip, but if you have time, I recommend staying at least one or two nights. If you are planning on spending a few days there, check out my list of free or cheap things to do in San Diego.
FAQ: Driving in LA
Is Driving in LA Difficult?
Driving in LA can be tricky because of traffic, many freeway changes, and parking headaches, but don’t let that deter you. You totally got this! Planning ahead and using navigation apps can help.
How Much is a Speeding Ticket in LA?
A speeding ticket in LA typically starts around $230, but can quickly go up depending on how much over the limit you’re going. Fees can significantly increase the total cost, especially if you’re caught speeding in a construction or school zone. Don’t do it!
What’s the Best Time to Drive?
The best time to drive in LA is (usually) —between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.—or when traffic is lighter. You’ll want to avoid rush hour (7 a.m. – 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.) if possible.
Is It Hard to Get Around LA Without a Car?
Getting around LA without a car is possible by train and bus. However, some areas require multiple transfers, and public transportation can be more time-consuming than driving. Staying in a centrally located area can make it much easier to access tourist destinations without needing to drive.
Ready to Tackle LA’s Roads Like a Pro?
Driving in Los Angeles can truthfully be a bit hectic, but the added convenience and freedom of having a car in the city makes it totally worth it.
I hope this guide has helped prepare you for navigating LA’s freeways, parking, and traffic. Make your car rental reservation today and lock in a great rate for your trip ahead of time.
Ready to hit the road and explore beyond the city? Check out my guide on taking a road trip to Palm Springs from LA for your next adventure!
Read More About Planning a Trip to Los Angeles
- 10 Best Los Angeles Tours for First-Time Visitors
- A Local’s Guide to the Best Boutique Hotels in Los Angeles
- 1 Day in Los Angeles Itinerary: Top Things to See & Do (From a Local)
- Los Angeles in 3 Days – A Highly Practical & Fun Hour-by-Hour Itinerary
- What to Wear in Los Angeles — A Guide to Every Season (From a Local)
- 81 Things to Do in Los Angeles (By a Local)
- Hidden HiFi: The Ultimate Guide to Historic Filipinotown Los Angeles
- An Inside Look at Little Tokyo: What To Do in 1 Afternoon
- How to Spend One Day in The Los Angeles Arts District
- What To Do In Chinatown Los Angeles with One Afternoon
- 51+ Free or Insanely Cheap Things to Do in Los Angeles
- BEST Uncrowded Beaches in Los Angeles to Visit This Summer
- 21 Things to Do Near LAX: Your Guide to a Long Layover in Los Angeles
- Best Coworking Spaces in Los Angeles for Long-Term Travelers
- San Francisco or Los Angeles? Here’s How to Choose
- 31 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles to Whisk You Abroad in One Bite
- 17 HUGE Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in Los Angeles
- Ultimate Guide to Driving in Los Angeles – Tips from a Local
Planning a trip right now? Here are a few top resources I use on every trip:
🏨 Booking.com for great deals on hotels.
🎟️ GetYourGuide for incredible tours around the world.
🌍 Faye for travel insurance with great customer support.
📞 eSIM for staying connected in the air, on a cruise ship, or exploring on foot.
🗣️ Babbel for brushing up on my language skills.
