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Explore California Conveniently with One-Way Rentals

Embark on a seamless journey from Oakland to San Diego.

Can I rent a car from Oakland to San Diego?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Oakland to San Diego. 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(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 20 to 24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00 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 be also 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, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 20 to 24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Oakland to San Diego 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$ 43/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$ 43-US$ 60US$ 0-US$ 455US$ 128-US$ 169Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 53US$ 0US$ 134Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 44-US$ 57US$ 0-US$ 151US$ 137-US$ 165Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 44-US$ 495US$ 0-US$ 455US$ 136-US$ 585Large groups, long drivers
Pickup TruckUS$ 65-US$ 75US$ 0US$ 198-US$ 229Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand One-Way Fees: One-way rentals may include additional fees for picking up and dropping off at different locations. Confirm these costs prior to booking.
  • Verify Drop-Off Location Restrictions: Ensure the rental company allows drop-offs at your destination city, San Diego, without significant limitations.
  • Consider Cross-Border Restrictions: If your travel routes cross state or country borders, confirm these are permitted with the rental vehicle.
  • Know Your Mileage Policy: Ask about mileage limitations or extra charges for exceeding certain distances during your trip.
  • Check Required Documents: Bring proper identification, a driver's license, and a credit card to facilitate vehicle pickup.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early For Better Deals: Secure your one-way rental as early as possible to access better rates and vehicle options.
  • Plan Your Route In Advance: Mark fuel stations and rest stops along the way to ensure a smooth journey.
  • Set Flexible Pickup and Drop-Off Dates: Having flexible dates might help you negotiate lower rates or align with special offers.
  • Refuel Before Returning The Vehicle: Avoid premium refueling charges by filling up the tank at a local station before drop-off.
  • Keep Contact Details Ready: Have the rental company's emergency and customer service numbers handy in case of any issues.
  • Review Rental Policies Thoroughly: Take note of insurance coverage, cancellation fees, and other terms to avoid surprises.
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 before returning to avoid higher charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling near the drop-off location.

Plan refueling stops along the route to avoid running low on fuel in remote areas.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle to improve fuel efficiency.

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Oakland Parking

Downtown Oakland parking costs range from $2 to $5 per hour.

Street parking is available but often limited during peak hours.

Consider using parking garages for longer durations to ensure security.

San Diego Parking

Parking near the drop-off location costs approximately $3 per hour.

Public parking lots are available along Pacific Highway.

Using mobile payment apps for metered parking is highly recommended.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMobile for finding and paying for parking in advance.

SpotHero to reserve parking spots in garages at discounted rates.

Way for comparing parking options and prices.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Roadways Between Oakland and San Diego:
Pacific Coast Highway Route
Scenic Coastline Drive Approximately 10 hours

This route travels along the iconic Highway 1, providing stunning ocean views and picturesque coastal towns.

Santa Cruz , Monterey , Big Sur
Interstate 5 Direct Route
Fastest Route Approximately 7.5 hours

This is the most direct path from Oakland to San Diego, suitable for quick trips.

Stockton , Fresno , Los Angeles
Eastern Desert Route
Desert Exploration Path Approximately 9 hours

Driving through the interior, this route offers fascinating desert landscapes and serene drives.

Mojave National Preserve , Joshua Tree National Park , Palm Springs
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a vehicle that suits your trip needs, whether it's for comfort, fuel efficiency, or off-road capability.

Familiarize Yourself with the Route: Review your route in advance, noting rest stops, gas stations, and potential points of interest.

Plan Stops for Overnight Rests: For longer trips, arrange accommodations to ensure ample rest breaks along the way.

Understand Fueling Options: Locate convenient refueling sites and study efficient driving to save on gas.

Set a Trip Budget: Account for vehicle rental costs, fuel, meals, and lodging to avoid unexpected expenses.

Prepare for the Unexpected: Carry essential items like a spare tire, emergency tools, first-aid kit, and water.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right car rental company for your one-way travel from Oakland to San Diego is crucial. Only include companies offering one-way rental services.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighNationwide
Enterprise$$Medium-HighVery High
Alamo$MediumHigh
Avis$$$HighNationwide
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

Oakland and San Diego Rental Car Centers

Airport Rental Car Center Location:

Located adjacent to the main terminals at both Oakland and San Diego airports.

Operation Hours:

Rental car centers are typically open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

Shuttle Service:

Shuttles operate every 5-10 minutes and are clearly marked.

Fuel Policies:

Several nearby refueling stations are available for convenient returns.

Pro Tips for Oakland Airport(OAK) Car Rentals

Return the vehicle with a full tank of gas to avoid additional charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the available car rental companies for a one-way rental from Oakland to San Diego?

Several major car rental companies offer one-way rentals between Oakland and San Diego, including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and Alamo. It's recommended to check their individual policies and availability for this route.

Is there an additional fee for a one-way car rental?

Yes, many car rental companies charge a one-way fee, commonly referred to as a "drop-off fee," to cover the cost of returning the vehicle to the original city. This fee varies by company and should be confirmed at the time of booking.

What is the estimated driving time from Oakland to San Diego?

The direct drive from Oakland to San Diego typically takes about 7 to 8 hours via Interstate 5 or Interstate 101, depending on conditions and selected route.

Can I choose the type of car I want for this route?

Yes, rental agencies provide a range of car types, from compact and economy cars to SUVs and luxury vehicles. Keep in mind that vehicle availability may be subject to location and time of booking.

What should I know about fuel policies during my rental?

Most car rental companies offer several fuel options, including prepayment of fuel, returning the car with a full tank, or being charged for the used amount. Ensure you understand the fuel policy to avoid potential fees.

Ready to Book Your Oakland to San Diego Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes