Quick Guide: Picking Up A Rental Car At San Diego International (SAN) Airport

Renting a car at San Diego International Airport (SAN) is a convenient way to explore the vibrant city of San Diego and its picturesque surroundings. This guide provides a step-by-step process to ensure a seamless car rental experience at SAN.

Step 1: Arrival at San Diego International Airport

Proceed to Baggage Claim: After landing, follow signs to the baggage claim area in your respective terminal to collect your luggage.

Step 2: Accessing the Rental Car Center

SAN’s Consolidated Rental Car Center houses all on-airport rental car companies under one roof, streamlining the pick-up and drop-off process.​

• Location: The Rental Car Center is situated at 3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101.
• Transportation to the Rental Car Center:
  • Shuttle Service: Free dedicated shuttle buses operate 24/7, transporting passengers between the airport terminals and the Rental Car Center.
  • Shuttle Pick-Up Points:
    • Terminal 1: Use the pedestrian crosswalk to reach the Ground Transportation Center across the street.
    • Terminal 2: Use the pedestrian crosswalk located outside the Terminal 2 Baggage Claim Area to access the Transportation Plaza.

Step 3: Selecting Your Rental Car Company

The Rental Car Center hosts several major rental car agencies, including:​

• Alamo Rent a Car​
• Avis Rent a Car​
• Budget Rent a Car​
• Dollar Car Rental​
• Enterprise Rent a Car​
• Fox Rent-A-Car​
• Hertz Rent A Car​
• National Car Rental​
• Payless Car Rental​
• Sixt Rent a Car​
• Thrifty Car Rental​
• ZipCar​San Diego International Airport

Each company offers a variety of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets.

Step 4: Completing the Rental Process

Documentation: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the driver’s name. International travelers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).​

Reservation Confirmation: Present your reservation details to the rental agent.​

Additional Services: Discuss any extra services you might need, such as GPS navigation systems, child safety seats, or additional insurance coverage.

Step 5: Vehicle Inspection and Pick-Up

Inspect the Vehicle: Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect the car for any existing damage and ensure it’s documented by the rental company.​

Familiarize Yourself with the Vehicle: Adjust the seat and mirrors, and acquaint yourself with the vehicle’s controls and features.

Step 6: Navigating from the Rental Car Center

Exiting the Facility: Follow the on-site signage to exit the Rental Car Center.​

Accessing Major Highways:

• From Interstate 5 North:
  • Take the Sassafras Street exit.
  • Turn left onto Sassafras Street.
  • Continue straight through the signal at the Pacific Highway/Sassafras intersection and follow the signs to the Rental Car Center/Return.
• From Interstate 5 South:
  • Take the Sassafras Street exit.
  • Turn right onto Sassafras Street.
  • Continue straight through the signal at the Pacific Highway/Sassafras intersection and follow the signs to the Rental Car Center/Return.

Step 7: Returning the Rental Car

Return Location: Return the vehicle to the same Rental Car Center at 3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101.

Shuttle Back to Terminals: After returning your car, board the complimentary shuttle back to your departure terminal.

Conclusion and Additional Tips

• Lost and Found:
  • For items left in a rental car, contact the rental company directly.​
  • For items left on a rental car center shuttle bus, reach out to San Diego International Airport’s Lost and Found office. San Diego International Airport
• Operating Hours: While the Rental Car Center operates 24/7, individual rental company hours may vary. Confirm specific service hours and return procedures with your chosen provider.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car rental experience at San Diego International Airport, allowing you to enjoy all that the region has to offer.