Can I hire a car from Hertz at San Francisco International Airport?

Yes, you can rent a car at San Francisco International Airport with Hertz. The rental process is convenient, with the Hertz desk easily accessible at the location. Hertz offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your travel needs. To ensure availability of your preferred car, it's recommended to book in advance through the Hertz website.

Can I hire a car one way from San Francisco International Airport?

Yes, you may hire a car at San Francisco International Airport for one-way trips. This means you may return your vehicle at a different Hertz rental location. This option is perfect if you have a specific journey planned or do not plan to return to San Francisco International Airport. One-way rentals usually carry an additional one-way fee, which depends on where you drop your rental car off.

Can I get a flexible car hire, or cancel after I book a car at San Francisco International Airport?

Yes, you can get a flexible car hire at San Francisco International Airport. You can cancel or modify your car rental booking using the online booking platform. If you cancel your booking at least two days ahead of the pickup date, you will receive a refund. In other cases, an administrative fee will apply.

Are there any specific requirements to hire a car from Hertz at San Francisco International Airport?

To get a car rental at San Francisco International Airport, you must be at least 25 years old. Some cars can be rented by individuals aged 21 years or more, on payment of a young driver surcharge. You must also have a valid driver's licence and be able to provide a credit card in your name to reserve your booking. Please check the Rental Qualifications during booking for specific details.

Is it possible to return my Hertz rental car to a different location from origin?

Yes, when you hire a car at San Francisco International Airport with Hertz Car Rental, you can choose your return location at the time of booking. You must return your rental car to the location specified in your rental agreement. Returning your car to a different location usually comes with an additional one-way fee.

How can I cancel or modify my booking with Hertz Car Rental at San Francisco International Airport?

You may cancel or modify your car hire at San Francisco International Airport booking through the Hertz Car Rental online booking platform. You may modify the date and time of your booking, as well as the pickup and return locations. To receive a refund, you must cancel at least two days before the booking.

What is the procedure for collecting and returning a car with Hertz at San Francisco International Airport?

When you hire a car at San Francisco International Airport with Hertz, you must return it at the location specified in the rental agreement. For an early return, the fee will be recalculated based on the actual number of days the car was used. Late returns may incur additional fees. After the vehicle inspection upon return, you must make the necessary payment related to any adjustments or additional charges.

Can I check in online for my Hertz rental at San Francisco International Airport?

Yes, Hertz offers an online check-in option for car rentals at San Francisco International Airport. You can check in online on the Hertz website and submit your details to the rental location prior to picking up your car. The online check-in service minimises your wait time at the rental desk, as your details are already on file when you arrive.

How can I extend my rental duration at San Francisco International Airport?

To extend your rental duration, use the ‘Modify booking’ option on the Hertz website. If you’ve already picked up your car rental at San Francisco International Airport, visit or call the rental desk to arrange an extension. Additional charges may apply based on availability.

Does Hertz offer after-hours returns at San Francisco International Airport?

Yes, you can return your car hire at San Francisco International Airport after hours with prior arrangements. Park in the designated Hertz area, leave documents on the driver's seat and drop the keys in the secure box.

Hertz Gold+

Become a Hertz Gold+ member and unlock even more rewarding perks:

Save up to 10% year-round when you book direct.

Get faster pickups and returns.

Earn points to use for free rental days.

Free additional driver for your partner.

Your fastest way to earn status.

Free car-class upgrades for elite members.

View all benefits >

Learn more

Hertz Gold+

Member benefits Frequently asked questions Join for free now

Car Rental San Francisco International Airport

Enjoy reliable car hire in the San Francisco International Airport with Hertz. We offer convenient pick-up, a wide selection of vehicles, and hassle-free journeys.

Reserve a vehicle

Pick-up locations

Pick up date & time

Drop off date & time

Different Drop-off Location

Age

Add Discount Code

Hertz car hire in San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco trips tend to start moving fast. As soon as you leave SFO, you’ll notice how close the city, the waterfront, and Peninsula routes really are. With a Hertz car waiting for you, you don’t have to commit to a single plan. You can pivot, detour, or jump ahead whenever the day shifts.

Getting a car rental at San Francisco International Airport lets you pick up your vehicle after arrival, get settled behind the wheel, and head toward a hotel check-in, a meeting, or a first stop in the city without stretching the day out before it even starts.

For day trips, car hire at San Francisco International Airport also puts you in the right position for routes that move beyond the city grid. You can head north toward viewpoints and neighborhoods, drive down the Peninsula when your schedule is tight, or plan a longer loop toward coastal towns without building the trip around fixed departure times.

You can reach a few key spots with an easy drive:

Downtown San Francisco is about 14 miles from SFO
San Francisco Waterfront (Embarcadero / Piers) sits around 15 miles
Golden Gate Park is roughly 17 miles
Sausalito takes about 22 miles across the Golden Gate Bridge

Best-Loved Car Brand

Chevrolet Equinox

Average Daily Price

USD 118 /day

Top Deal

USD 119 /day

Location Information
Driving & quick guide
Travel Guide
FAQs

Pick-up locations information

San Francisco International Airport

Mon-Sun 24 hours

780 McDonnell Road, San Francisco, 94128, United States

(650) 624-6600

**(Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company's access charge)

Rental Qualifications and Requirements

Book a car

Pick-up Date and Time: closepickupTime

Return Date and Time: dropTime

Hire Car Type: Apply a discount code

Discount/CDP/Club Code :

Get a quote

Get Directions

Driving in and around San Francisco International Airport

With car hire at San Francisco Airport, you can start exploring right away and keep day trips simple. San Francisco International Airport sits close to two major routes. US-101 is the main corridor into the city and along the Peninsula, while I-280 is a popular alternative for a smoother run north or south. Downtown San Francisco is typically a 20 to 35 minute drive from the airport depending on traffic. Commute hours and bridge approaches can slow things down, so build in a buffer if you have timed plans.

Parking is the main challenge in the city. Garages are the simplest option in busy districts, while street parking comes with strict rules. Watch posted signs, curb markings, and time limits closely. California law requires seatbelts for all passengers and restricts handheld phone use while driving.

A quick guide to San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco is one of America's most distinctive cities, shaped by the Bay, the Pacific, and its famous hills. Its character lives across very different neighbourhoods, which is why car rental at San Francisco Airport gives you the freedom to explore on your own schedule.

Waterfront Views And City Icons

Pick one or two areas, park once, and walk between cafés, independent shops, and viewpoint streets. Garages tend to be easier than residential blocks, especially on weekends.

Coast And Countryside Day Trips

If you rent a car, you are also well placed for easy drives beyond the city. Head south for Peninsula stops and Silicon Valley visits, or take a coastal route when you want ocean views and smaller beach towns. Start early for longer loops and plan parking at your key stops to keep the day simple.

Make the most of your time here with San Francisco International Airport car rental from Hertz.

What Cars Can I Hire at San Francisco International Airport?

Hertz car rental at San Francisco International Airport gives you options that fit how you plan to use the car, from short city hops to longer drives across the Bay Area. It works well for airport-to-hotel transfers, but it also suits day trips when you want more space, comfort, or a smoother motorway ride.

Vehicle availability can change by date and time, but these are the main categories you can usually expect at this location.

Compact and economy cars for quick city runs, easier parking, and simple airport-to-hotel drives.
Sedans for a calmer ride, more boot space for luggage, and a better fit when you expect longer stretches outside the city.
SUVs when you want a higher driving position, extra room for passengers, and more comfort for longer drives.
MPVs that work well for families or small groups traveling together, especially when you want flexible seating and room for multiple bags.
Vans for bigger groups, bulkier luggage, or trips where you want everyone in one vehicle rather than splitting up.
Premium models for a more refined drive, common choices being executive-style sedans and higher-spec SUVs that suit business travel and longer days on the road.

Electric Car Rental at San Francisco International Airport

If you are planning to stay in the city or do structured day trips, an electric car rental at San Francisco International Airport can be a practical choice.

Hertz offers electric and hybrid options at many locations, which can be a good match for quieter cruising and stop-and-go city driving.

Charging access around San Francisco varies by garage, neighborhood, and destination. So, in case you’re hoping to get an EV, it helps to plan a couple of reliable charging stops around your itinerary rather than searching at the last minute.

Value Added Services (VAS) – Enhance your rental experience

If you’re looking for a car rental at San Francisco International Airport, Hertz offers a wide range of Value Added Services (VAS) that can make your trip simpler, safer, and more comfortable.

These add-ons are useful when you expect busy city driving, longer day trips, or a schedule where you do not want small surprises to slow you down.

Some available VAS products that you can include with your rental car booking are:

SuperCover: Removes the excess and provides full protection against collision, theft, and damage.
Theft Protection: Reduce your liability in case the vehicle is stolen.
Hertz Premium Emergency Roadside Service (PERS): Provides fast assistance in case of issues on the road.
Infant seats: Secure seating for babies under one year old.
Child seats: Forward-facing seats for young children.
High-back booster seats: Enhanced safety for older children.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces liability in case of damage to or loss of the rental vehicle.

Explore Places Within 30 Miles of San Francisco International Airport

Golden Gate Bridge

20.9 miles from San Francisco International Airport (approx)
499 parking spots (approx)
6 active charging points nearby (approx)
Open daily

A classic San Francisco landmark and a strong first stop when you want views without committing to a full day plan. You can grab photos from a couple of viewpoints, take a short walk along the pedestrian path, and be back on the road quickly.

Golden Gate Park

14 miles from San Francisco International Airport (approx)
459 parking spots (approx)
5 active charging points nearby (approx)
Open daily

A solid “reset” stop when you want to slow the pace without leaving the city. It’s big enough to choose your own rhythm, whether that means a museum visit, a scenic walk, or a quick break in a quieter green pocket.

Ferry Building Marketplace

13.6 miles from San Francisco International Airport (approx)
519 parking spots (approx)
4 active charging points nearby (approx)
Open daily 7 AM to 8 PM

A clean, focused waterfront visit that still feels distinctly San Francisco. It’s great for a short walk along the Embarcadero, a quick bite, and bay views that don’t require a long detour or a big plan.

Hertz Car Hire FAQs – San Francisco International Airport

Can I get a car rental from Hertz directly at San Francisco International Airport?

Does Hertz offer one-way car rentals from San Francisco International Airport?

Can I modify or cancel my San Francisco International Airport reservation?

What are the requirements to rent at the San Francisco International Airport branch?

Can I return my car to a different location than the one listed in my contract?

Benefits from day one.

Join for free.

Up to 10% off the base rate on rentals in select countries

Up to 10% discount applies to base rates in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Benelux. 5% applies for the rest of the world. The discount applies to the base rate quoted (excluding taxes and any other charges). It does not apply to affiliated rates or rates that are already discounted.
Add your spouse as a second driver without an extra fee
Earn points redeemable toward free rental days and upgrades

Points are earned on per day time and mileage charges only. Free rental days cover base rate (time and mileage) only. Taxes, optional extras and any other fees are excluded. One-car-class upgrade applies to Compact, Intermediate, Standard & Full-size rentals with a maximum upgrade to a Premium. Additional terms and exclusions apply
Skip the counter and go straight to your car

You can skip the counter once your membership is activated after your first rental. Available at select locations only.

Member Login

Benefits from day one.

Join for free.

Make travel feel golden with Hertz Gold+

Ready to get more from every drive? Hertz Gold+ is our free loyalty program that turns everyday car rental into rewards. Get instant perks and seamless pickups.
Skip the line, choose your ride, and go

Skip the rental counter at selected locations – just head to your car and go. At selected US rental locations, you can also choose from a wider selection of cars, including exclusive vehicles for top-tier members.
Earn points to redeem for free rental days

Earn free rental days with every booking. The more you rent, the faster you unlock elite status.* *Points are earned & redeemed on the base rental rate only. Taxes, fees, & options are excluded. Additional terms apply.
Share the drive for free

Add your spouse or partner as an additional driver for free.