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Explore San Francisco with Ease

Your one-way rental journey from Chico to San Francisco awaits

Can I rent a car from Chico to San Francisco?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Chico to San Francisco. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United Kingdom national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day. Drivers aged 22-25 may incur a fee of US$ 88.93 per day. Drivers aged 23-24 may incur a fee of US$ 53.61 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day. Drivers aged 22-25 may incur a fee of US$ 88.93 per day. Drivers aged 23-24 may incur a fee of US$ 53.61 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Chico to San Francisco cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 45/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 51/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 45-US$ 47US$ 0US$ 134-US$ 140Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 46-US$ 47US$ 0US$ 136-US$ 141Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 51-US$ 60US$ 0US$ 151-US$ 179Large groups, long drivers

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fees: Understand the additional charges that may apply when returning the car to a different location from where it was picked up.
  • Cross-border restrictions: Check with the rental company about cross-border travel policies if you plan to cross state or country lines.
  • Limited vehicle types: Availability of certain car categories might be restricted for one-way trips, so book early.
  • Return timing: Plan your trip to ensure on-time vehicle drop-off to avoid late-return penalties.
  • Preferred drop-off locations: Not all pickup locations are equipped for one-way returns, so check this while booking.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Reserve early: Book your one-way rental in advance to ensure availability of your desired vehicle type at competitive prices.
  • Research fuel policies: Know whether your rental includes a full-to-full fuel policy or if other conditions apply for returns.
  • Inspect rental agreement: Carefully read through the terms and conditions to understand insurance and mileage inclusions.
  • Pack smartly: Pack efficiently to make the most of the vehicle space, especially if traveling with family or groups.
  • Utilize GPS: Plan your route and use a GPS to ensure a smooth drive from Chico to San Francisco.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges.

Keep the receipt as proof of refueling.

Use the recommended fuel type to prevent engine issues.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost in the San Francisco area is approximately $5.20 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce drag.

Avoid using the air conditioning excessively to save fuel.

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Chico Parking

Street parking is available but may have time limits.

Several public parking lots offer daily rates.

Avoid parking in unauthorized zones to prevent fines.

San Francisco Parking

Parking garages are widely available but can be expensive.

Metered street parking is an option but often limited.

Consider using parking apps to find and reserve spots.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

ParkMobile

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Tolls and FasTrak

The route includes the Bay Bridge toll, costing $7 during peak hours.

The Golden Gate Bridge has a toll of $8.40 for southbound traffic.

Tolls are charged electronically, so ensure you have a FasTrak account or other payment method.

Toll Payment Options

FasTrak electronic tags.

Pay-by-plate billing.

Online payment within 48 hours of crossing.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Chico to San Francisco:
Interstate 5 to Interstate 80
Highway 3 hours 20 minutes

This route is the fastest and follows major highways, offering a direct way to travel from Chico to San Francisco.

Sacramento , Davis , Vallejo
Highway 99 to Interstate 80
Highway 3 hours 30 minutes

An alternative to Interstate 5, this route passes through more towns and offers additional stops for refueling or sightseeing.

Yuba City , Sacramento , Berkeley
Scenic Route through Napa Valley
Scenic 4 hours

A scenic drive that takes you through the famous Napa Valley wine region, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers.

Vacaville , Fairfield , Napa
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Choose a route based on your interests, whether it's speed, scenery, or stops at iconic locations.

Fuel Up Wisely: Plan fuel stops in advance to avoid running low in remote areas.

Prepare for Activities: Pack accordingly for any planned activities, from wine tasting to hiking.

Check Rental Policies: Ensure you understand the car rental agreement, especially regarding mileage limits and insurance coverage.

Budget Carefully: Account for toll roads, parking fees in urban areas, and potential overage costs.

Have a Backup Plan: Research alternate routes or rest stops in case of unexpected detours or closures.

Choosing a Car Rental Company for Your One-Way Journey

When selecting a rental company for a one-way trip from Chico to San Francisco, consider factors such as one-way fees, the variety of vehicles available, geographical availability, and the unique benefits offered.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$High-quality selectionWidespread coverage No young driver surcharge for eligible customers , Wide range of economy and luxury vehicles
Hertz$$$Premium vehicle optionsExtensive network Frequent Traveler Program points accrual , Special deals for members
Avis$$$Comprehensive selectionNationwide service Free rental day rewards for repeat customers , Mobile app integration for bookings
Budget$Basic vehicle optionsGood reach across cities Affordability and simple terms , Occasional discounts for early bookings
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Important Information About Rental Centers on This Route

Chico Pickup Location:

Pickup is available at the Chico Enterprise office located at 310 Main Street.

San Francisco Airport Rental Car Center:

The SFO rental car center is accessible via the AirTrain Blue Line.

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttles from SFO terminals to the rental car center operate every 5-7 minutes.

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers typically operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Pro Tips for Chico Municipal Airport(CIC) Car Rentals

To simplify your journey, book a vehicle that supports drop-off at SFO, reduces one-way fees, and includes insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to rent a car for a one-way trip from Chico to San Francisco?

To rent a car for a one-way trip, you generally need a valid driver's license, a major credit card, and proof of insurance if not included with the rental. Always check the specific requirements of the rental company.

Are there additional charges for a one-way car rental?

Yes, one-way rentals often include a drop-off fee because you return the car to a different location. Make sure to check upfront with the rental company for the estimated cost of this fee.

Where can I pick up and drop off the car?

The car can usually be picked up at a local rental agency in Chico and dropped off at a designated rental agency at San Francisco International Airport or desired San Francisco location. Confirm the locations when booking.

What types of vehicles are available for one-way rentals?

Vehicle options depend on the rental company. Typically, you can select from compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and sometimes even specialty vehicles like trucks or electric cars. Availability might vary by location.

Is there an extra charge for mileage on this route?

Most rental companies offer unlimited mileage for United States rentals, including the trip from Chico to San Francisco. However, verify this detail to avoid unexpected charges.

Ready to Book Your Chico to San Francisco Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes