How long is the drive to Los Angeles?

The drive takes approximately 40 hours of pure driving time.

Amtrak offers service from Charlottesville to Los Angeles, but you must drive to Charlottesville first.

What is the best route?

I-81 South to I-40 West is the most direct and common route.

Yes, there are toll roads in the Los Angeles area; be prepared for costs.

You would need to drive to Richmond or Charlottesville to catch a flight to Los Angeles.

Los Angeles

Driving

Shipman to Los Angeles

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Shipman to Los Angeles is a massive 4,000-kilometer drive across the entire United States. You will head west, primarily using I-40 to reach Los Angeles. This drive typically takes 38 to 42 hours, making it a multi-day journey. It is a popular route for those traveling from Virginia to the major urban center of Los Angeles.

Total Distance: 4,000 km driving distance; 3,600 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the most practical method, taking about 40 hours of pure drive time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective way to transport a group to Los Angeles.

Compare Shipman to Los Angeles Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

40 hours

Avg Price

$500-$600 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-81 S to I-40 W through Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma City, and Albuquerque.

Plan for at least four overnight stops to manage the long distance.

Travel Tips

Overnight Stops
Plan to stay overnight in Nashville, TN, Oklahoma City, OK, Albuquerque, NM, and Flagstaff, AZ, to manage fatigue.
Traffic Alerts
Los Angeles traffic can be heavy; use a GPS app for real-time updates.
Fueling
Gas prices are generally competitive along the I-40 corridor.
Hydration
Keep plenty of water in the car, especially as you cross the desert regions.
Weather
Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the mountains and desert, which can affect road conditions.

Safety Tips

Driver Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long drive.
Speeding
Speed limits are strictly enforced on I-40, particularly in small towns.
Weather
Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the mountains and desert, which can affect road conditions.
Vehicle Prep
Check your tire pressure and fluid levels before leaving for this long trip.