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Discover the Best of the West on a One-Way Journey

Plan your road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco with ease.

Can I rent a car from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Las Vegas 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 States 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 UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The minimum driver age is 20 years, and the maximum is 99 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, such as USD 27.00 or USD 45.00 per day, depending on the rental terms.
  • 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 IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (Driver's licenses printed in Roman alphabet such as English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc., are acceptable for car rental without the need for an IDP. Driver's licenses printed in a non-Roman alphabet such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Cyrillic, etc., must be accompanied by an IDP.)

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be required to present a return airline ticket. Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.

  • 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 UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The minimum driver age is 20 years, and the maximum is 99 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, such as USD 27.00 or USD 45.00 per day, depending on the rental terms.
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How much does renting a car from Las Vegas 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$ 42/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 46/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 48-US$ 241US$ 0-US$ 102US$ 124-US$ 1,728Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 51US$ 0US$ 141-US$ 151Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 51-US$ 261US$ 0-US$ 102US$ 139-US$ 503Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 51-US$ 561US$ 0-US$ 350US$ 136-US$ 808Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 72-US$ 85US$ 0US$ 183-US$ 259Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 111-US$ 169US$ 0US$ 338-US$ 881Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way rental fees: Many rental companies charge additional fees for one-way rentals. Check the pricing upfront to avoid surprises.
  • Driver's license requirements: Ensure your driver's license is valid and accepted in both the origin and destination states.
  • Drop-off locations: Verify that your preferred drop-off location in San Francisco accommodates one-way rentals.
  • Fuel policy: Check whether you need to refuel the car before returning it and locate nearby gas stations near the drop-off point.
  • Vehicle type availability: Ensure the type of vehicle you wish to rent is available for one-way travel on your selected route.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book early: Secure your reservation in advance for better rates and vehicle options.
  • Check insurance coverage: Understand your insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage during your trip.
  • Plan your route: Familiarize yourself with the route and note rest stops, tourist attractions, and fuel stations along the way.
  • Inspect the car: Document any existing damages when picking up the vehicle to avoid charges upon return.
  • Understand cancellation policies: Review rental company cancellation policies to plan flexibly in case of unexpected changes.
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
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle to the same level as when it was picked up to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Check the rental company's fuel policy for specific requirements.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along this route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are inflated to the correct pressure.

Minimize the use of air conditioning when possible.

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Las Vegas Parking

Parking in downtown Las Vegas may range from $5 to $20 per day.

Many hotels offer complimentary parking for guests.

Valet parking is widely available but may include additional fees.

San Francisco Parking

Parking in San Francisco can be expensive, averaging $3 to $7 per hour.

Look for public parking garages for more affordable options.

Street parking may require payment and adherence to time limits.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkWhiz: Find and book parking spaces in advance.

SpotHero: Compare parking prices and reserve spots.

PayByPhone: Conveniently pay for street parking.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes From Las Vegas to San Francisco:
Route via Death Valley National Park
Scenic 10 hours 30 minutes

Drive through the unique landscapes of Death Valley National Park with photo stops along the way.

Death Valley National Park , Mono Lake , Yosemite National Park
Coastal Route via US-101
Scenic Coastal 12 hours

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline by taking US-101.

Santa Barbara , Big Sur , Monterey
Direct Interstate Route via I-5
Direct 9 hours

Travel directly between Las Vegas and San Francisco on I-5 for the quickest path.

Bakersfield , Stockton
Road Trip Planning Tips

Plan Your Route: Choose your desired route early to know what destinations and stops to prioritize.

Allow Extra Travel Time: Account for unexpected delays or opportunities to visit sites you didn't plan.

Fuel Up Accordingly: Know where gas stations are along the route, especially in remote areas.

Inspect Rental Vehicle: Ensure your rental car is roadworthy and meets your travel needs.

Use a GPS or Navigation App: Ensure you have a reliable navigation aid for areas with limited mobile network coverage.

Pack for the Weather: Bring sun protection and hydrating options for sunny and hot conditions, especially in desert regions.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$Wide selection of vehicles, including luxury optionsHigh availability across major cities Well-maintained vehicles , Frequent promotions , Convenient airport locations
Enterprise$Comprehensive fleet including SUVs and economical carsExtensive coverage in urban and suburban areas Friendly customer service , Easy booking process , Options for insurance packages
Avis$$Diverse fleet with high-end modelsStrong presence across U.S.
Budget$Solid variety; emphasizes valueGood availability in urban areas Affordable pricing , Flexible rental agreements
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

San Francisco Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

Rental centers at San Francisco International Airport are open 24/7, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

Location:

The San Francisco International Airport Rental Car Center is located on McDonnell Road, easily accessible via the AirTrain Blue Line.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary AirTrain Blue Line shuttles run every 5 minutes between terminals and the rental center.

Nearest Fuel Stations:

Gas stations proximate to the rental car center include Shell, Chevron, and Arco, conveniently located within a 3-mile radius for refueling before return.

Pro Tips for Harry Reid International Airport(LAS) Car Rentals

Remember to refuel your car before returning to avoid additional charges. The closest gas stations are marked near the rental center for your convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main car rental companies operating from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

Several major car rental companies offer one-way services on the Las Vegas to San Francisco route, including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget. It's advisable to confirm availability and pricing in advance.

Is there an additional fee for one-way car rentals?

Yes, many car rental companies charge a one-way fee, also known as a drop-off fee, for returning the rental at a different location. The fee amount can vary, so be sure to check with the rental provider.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car for this journey?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though drivers under 25 may incur an additional young driver surcharge. Age policies differ between companies, so verify specific terms.

Can I choose a specific type of vehicle for this route?

Yes, car rental companies typically allow you to select a vehicle type, such as sedans, SUVs, or compact cars. Specific models are subject to availability, so booking in advance is recommended.

What is the recommended process for returning the car in San Francisco?

When returning the car in San Francisco, it's best to refuel near the drop-off location and ensure all rental agreement requirements have been met. Follow the provided instructions on where to return the vehicle at the rental center.

Ready to Book Your Las Vegas to San Francisco Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes