Renting a car at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a convenient way to explore the Bay Area and beyond. This guide provides a step-by-step process to ensure a smooth car rental experience at SFO.
Step 1: Arrival at San Francisco International Airport
Proceed to Baggage Claim: After landing, follow signs to the baggage claim area in your terminal. There is ample signage in the terminals to guide you to baggage claim location.
Step 2: Access the Rental Car Center
AirTrain Blue Line: SFO’s Rental Car Center is accessible via the AirTrain Blue Line, a free, 24-hour automated people mover.
Directions:
- From Terminals 1, 2, or 3: Follow signs to the AirTrain station and board the Blue Line directly to the Rental Car Center.
- From the International Terminal: Proceed to the AirTrain station and take the Blue Line to the Rental Car Center.
Step 3: Choose Your Rental Car Company
Several major car rental companies operate at SFO’s Rental Car Center, including:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Thrifty
Each company offers a variety of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. Most of the counters are located on the 4th floor, with Hertz as a noteable exception, located on the first floor.
The following rental companies are located off-site: Payless, Fox, NU Car Rental and Airport Van Rentals. At the time of this writing, free shuttle service from the SFO Rental Car Center will take you to these locations. Shuttles stop at the south curb of the Rental Car Center upon customer request.
Step 4: Complete the Rental Agreement
- Documentation: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the driver’s name.
- International Travelers: If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Additional Drivers and Extras: Inform the rental company if you need additional drivers, GPS, child seats, or other extras; additional fees may apply.
Step 5: Vehicle Pick-Up
- Inspection: Before driving off, inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and ensure it’s documented by the rental company.
- Familiarize Yourself: Adjust seats, mirrors, and understand the vehicle’s controls before leaving the facility.
Step 6: Navigating from the Airport
- Exiting the Rental Car Center: Follow signs to the airport exit, which will lead you to US-101 or I-380, connecting you to various Bay Area destinations.
- Traffic Considerations: Be aware of peak traffic hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM) to plan your departure accordingly.
Step 7: Returning the Rental Car
- Location: Return the vehicle to the Rental Car Center at 780 N. McDonnell Rd., San Francisco, CA 94128.
- AirTrain Access: After returning the car, take the AirTrain Blue Line back to your terminal.
- After-Hours Returns: Most companies offer after-hours drop-off; confirm with your rental provider for specific instructions.
Conclusion
For more detailed information and updates on car rental services at SFO, visit the official San Francisco International Airport Rental Cars page.
By following these steps, you can ensure a seamless car rental experience at San Francisco International Airport, allowing you to explore the region with ease.
