Hiring a car at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the easiest way to explore the Bay Area and beyond. From downtown San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge to Napa Valley, Yosemite and the Pacific Coast Highway, airport car hire gives you total freedom from the moment you land.
With Rhino Car Hire, you can compare cheap car hire at San Francisco Airport, book online in minutes, and collect your vehicle at the on-airport Rental Car Center with clear pricing and no hidden fees.
Why Hire a Car at San Francisco Airport?
San Francisco and Northern California are best explored by car. Hiring at SFO allows you to:
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Drive straight from the airport to your hotel or accommodation
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Explore San Francisco, Silicon Valley and the Bay Area easily
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Take scenic road trips to Napa Valley, Yosemite or Big Sur
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Carry luggage comfortably without relying on public transport
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Book one-way rentals for Pacific Coast Highway trips
For most visitors, car hire at SFO is the most flexible and time-efficient option.
Why Choose Rhino Car Hire at SFO?
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Competitive San Francisco Airport car hire rates
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Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
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Wide vehicle choice including economy cars, SUVs and convertibles
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Ideal options for coastal drives and longer road trips
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One-way car hire available across California and the USA
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24/7 customer support and roadside assistance
San Francisco Airport Car Hire Pick-Up & Return
Where to Pick Up Your Car
All rental companies at SFO operate from the Rental Car Center, which is connected to the terminals by the free AirTrain Blue Line.
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Follow signs for “AirTrain” after baggage claim
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Take the Blue Line to the Rental Car Center
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Journey time is around 10 minutes
Returning Your Car
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Return your vehicle to the same Rental Car Center
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Follow airport signage for “Rental Car Return”
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Fuel stations are located close to the airport for refuelling
Full instructions are provided after booking.
Best Drives from San Francisco Airport
With your hire car, you can easily reach:
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Downtown San Francisco – around 25 minutes
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Golden Gate Bridge – 30–35 minutes
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Napa Valley – approximately 1 hour north
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Yosemite National Park – around 4 hours east
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Monterey & Big Sur – scenic coastal drive
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Los Angeles via Highway 1 – popular one-way road trip
One Way Car Hire from San Francisco Airport
One-way car hire from SFO is extremely popular for California road trips. Instead of returning to San Francisco, you can drop your car off at another city or airport.
Popular one-way routes include:
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San Francisco → Los Angeles
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San Francisco → San Diego
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San Francisco → Las Vegas
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San Francisco → Sacramento
Any one-way drop-off fees are clearly shown before booking.
Driving in San Francisco & California – What to Know
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Drive on the right-hand side
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Speed limits are posted in miles per hour
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Many Bay Area bridges use electronic tolling (FasTrak)
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Rental cars are usually billed via pay-by-plate or toll programmes
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Parking in downtown San Francisco is limited — garages are recommended
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Coastal fog is common, especially in summer — drive with care
How to Book Car Hire at San Francisco Airport
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Select San Francisco Airport (SFO) as your pick-up location
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Choose your travel dates and vehicle type
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Compare prices, insurance and extras
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Book securely with instant confirmation
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Take the AirTrain and collect your car
San Francisco Airport Car Hire FAQs
Do I need an International Driving Permit in California?
If your licence is in English, an IDP is not required. Otherwise, one is recommended.
What is the minimum age to hire a car at SFO?
Most suppliers require drivers to be 21+. Under-25s may pay a surcharge, and some vehicles require drivers to be 25+.
Is unlimited mileage included?
Most SFO rentals include unlimited mileage — always check your booking details.
Are child seats available?
Yes. Child seats are required by law for young children and can be added during booking.
Book Your San Francisco Airport Car Hire Today
Compare deals, book in minutes, and enjoy flexible, affordable car hire at San Francisco Airport with Rhino Car Hire. Pick up at SFO and explore California with confidence.