Your Complete Guide to Car Rentals At the San Francisco International Airport
When your journey starts at SFO (San Francisco International Airport), so your first step must be to pick up your rental car. While the process at a major hub like SFO seems daunting, the airport’s efficient Rental Car Center (RCC) makes it convenient for travelers. This guide gives you your definitive map for SFO car rental. In addition, it offers insider tips on pricing and navigating Bay Area tolls. Finally, you make a seamless transition from the plane to the open highway.
To learn about the San Francisco Airport car rental agencies and the simple booking process, just keep scrolling through this article.
How Can You Make Rental Car Pickups and Returns at SFO Airport?
SFO’s Rental Car Center actively unites all major car rental companies under one roof; consequently, it gives travelers a convenient, hassle-free experience. Rather than navigating multiple buildings or off-site locations, you can now pick up and drop off rental cars in a single, centralized facility. This makes transitioning from air travel to road travel incredibly efficient. You can find the rental car center here- 780 N. McDonnell Road, San Francisco, CA 94128.
How to Get to the SFO Rental Car Center?
Reaching the SFO Rental Car Center from any terminal becomes effortless with the AirTrain Blue Line. Moreover, the fully automated system runs frequently, ensuring smooth, quick, and reliable transportation. As a result, travelers move between terminals and rental counters without stress or delays.
About the AirTrain:
- Fully automated people mover
- Runs 24 hours a day
- Free to use
- Stations are located at all terminals, parking garages, the BART station, and the Rental Car Center
Therefore, the AirTrain at SFO offers frequent service, ensuring you can transfer between the terminals and the Rental Car Center quickly and comfortably.
List of Car Rental Companies at SFO Airport:
SFO Rental Car Center hosts a wide range of top car hire providers, offering everything from budget-friendly economy cars to premium luxury fleets. Moreover, you can enjoy quick access, smooth service, and convenient options tailored to your trip and budget.
On-Airport Agencies:
- Alamo:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.616.2400
- Hours: 6:00 a.m.- 12:30 a.m. daily
- Avis:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.877.6780
- Hours: Open 24 hours daily
- Budget:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.877.0998
- Hours: Open 24 hours daily
- Dollar:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.244.4131
- Hours: 6:30 a.m.-11:00 p.m. daily (returns accepted 24 hours)
- Enterprise:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.697.9200
- Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. daily
- Sixt:
- Location: 4th Floor, Level 1
- Phone: 415.658.9800
- Hours: 6:00 a.m.- 1:00 a.m. daily (returns accepted 24 hours)
- Hertz:
- Location: 1st Floor
- Phone: 650.624.6600
- Hours: Open 24 hours daily
- National:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.616.3000
- Hours: 6:00 a.m.- 12:30 a.m. daily
- Thrifty:
- Location: 4th Floor
- Phone: 650.283.0898
- Hours: 6:30 a.m.- 11:00 p.m. daily (returns accepted 24 hours)
Off-Airport Rental Car Agencies:
Several rental companies operate off-site; however, they remain easy to reach through a free shuttle service from the SFO Rental Car Center. These shuttles, which visitors can request anytime, conveniently stop at the center’s south curb, ensuring smooth, quick, and hassle-free transfers between the facility and the rental provider.
- Fox Rent A Car:
- Phone: 415.917.2713
- Hours: 5:00 a.m.- 12:30 a.m.
Additionally, Off-airport rentals often provide lower rates, and therefore, they become a smart option for budget-focused travelers. Moreover, they help you compare prices easily while still offering convenient access to your vehicle.
Time-Saving Remote Bag Check at the Rental Car Center at SFO Airport:
One of SFO’s standout conveniences is the Remote Bag Check service at the Rental Car Center, and moreover, it allows you to check luggage easily for a more efficient airport experience.
Why Use Remote Bag Check?
Instead of dragging your checked luggage back to the terminal, you can check your bags right at the SFO Rental Car Center. This service is operated by Bags, Inc. and is complimentary; only standard airline baggage fees apply.
- Airlines supported: Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United
- Location: Rental Car Center, Level 1 (Kiss & Fly area)
- Hours: 4:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. daily
This is especially useful for travelers returning rental cars before departing SFO, reducing stress and saving valuable time.
Booking & Pick-Up Essentials
Before booking SFO Airport car rental services, you must keep the following checklist in mind:
- Book in Advance:
You must book your car type several weeks ahead of time to secure it and the best rate, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Required Documents:
The main driver must present a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the same name. If the driver uses a debit card, the rental policies are often stricter; that’s why the company may require proof of a return travel itinerary and a higher deposit.
- Car Inspection:
Before leaving the lot, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage (scratches, dents) and note it on your contract. Taking photos of the exterior and the fuel/mileage gauges provides valuable documentation.
- Consider Insurance:
You must review your personal auto insurance, credit card coverage, and the rental company’s offerings (Collision Damage Waiver/Loss Damage Waiver) to ensure you have adequate coverage for your trip.
Conclusion:
Renting a car at SFO Airport makes it incredibly easy to start exploring the Bay Area. With its fully connected Rental Car Center, around-the-clock transportation, convenient bag check services, and a wide range of rental companies, SFO Airport car rental services set you up for a smooth journey from the moment you arrive.
FAQs:
The SFO Rental Car Center (RCC) is located at 780 N. McDonnell Road, San Francisco, CA 94128. It brings all major rental companies together in one centralized, easy-to-access facility.
SFO Airport hosts major on-airport brands such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, National, Sixt, Thrifty, and Dollar. Off-airport options like Fox Rent A Car are also available through free shuttle services from the RCC.
Hours vary by provider. Many, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz, operate 24/7, while others, such as Alamo, Enterprise, National, Sixt, Dollar, and Thrifty, operate from early morning until late at night.
Yes. SFO Airport offers a Remote Bag Check service at the RCC, operated by Bags, Inc. Travelers flying with Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, or United can check their bags between 4:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. This service is free, though airline baggage fees apply.
You must present a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Debit card rentals may require additional verification, such as a return itinerary and a higher deposit.
Yes, you must inspect the car for any dents, scratches, or damage and make sure it is documented. You can also take photos of the vehicle, fuel gauge, and mileage helps avoid disputes when returning the car.
It depends on your existing coverage. Review your personal auto insurance and credit card benefits, then compare them with rental company options like CDW/LDW to ensure full protection during your trip.