Arriving in San Francisco and want to rent a car? This guide will help you navigate the car rental process at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Here you will find information about rental locations, required documents, insurance options, and local traffic rules to ensure a smooth start to your trip.
Car rental company offices are usually located on the airport grounds, close to the terminals. Free shuttle services often operate between the terminals and the rental locations. Most major car rental companies are present, such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise. It is advisable to check the company's website for the exact location in advance.
San Francisco and its surroundings offer diverse landscapes, so the choice of car depends on your travel plans. Here are some popular choices:
| Car Class | Daily Price (EUR, approximately) |
| Economy | 30 - 50 |
| Compact | 40 - 60 |
| Mid-size | 50 - 80 |
| SUV | 70 - 120 |
| Premium/Luxury | 100+ |
Prices may vary seasonally and depending on availability.
Compact cars are easy to maneuver in the city, while an SUV may be a better choice in hilly areas. If you are traveling with more passengers or luggage, it is worth choosing a larger car.
Most car rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old to drive, but certain car classes may have a higher age limit. The required documents include a driver's license, identification (passport or driver's license), and a credit card. The security deposit amount is determined by the rental company and is usually held on the credit card. It is important to pay attention to the payment terms and cancellation policy as well.
Car rentals usually come with insurance options. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car in the event of a collision, Theft Protection covers damage from theft or vandalism, while Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) covers damage caused to third parties. It is advisable to find out about your own insurance coverage before taking out additional insurance. Ask the rental company about the excess and the terms and conditions.
In the United States, traffic generally flows from right to left. San Francisco has many hills, so pay attention to speed and braking. Parking in the city can be difficult and expensive, so it is worth looking for parking garages or parking spaces. Some bridges and roads may require tolls. Speed limits are usually given in miles, but most car rental companies also display the speed in kilometers.
Not necessarily. If your driver's license is in Latin characters, it is usually sufficient.
Most major credit cards are accepted, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
The deposit amount depends on the car and the rental company, but is usually several hundred euros.
Immediately call the police and notify the rental company.
Most car rental companies offer GPS navigation for rent, or you can use your mobile phone.
Some rental companies limit the number of kilometers traveled, but you can usually choose an unlimited mileage package.
The car must be returned at the location and time specified by the rental company.
Late return may incur additional costs.
The additional driver must be reported to the rental company, and an additional fee usually applies.
Most rental companies request that the car be returned with the same fuel as it was taken with.
Before starting, carefully inspect the car and document any damage.