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Plan Your One-Way Drive From San Francisco to Denver

Enjoy the journey with scenic routes and convenient car rentals

Can I rent a car from San Francisco to Denver?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Francisco to Denver. 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 1-2 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported attributes: XpCard, DcCard, UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 20 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 20-24 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. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet or Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).

    Notes: 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 Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported attributes: XpCard, DcCard, UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 20 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 20-24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from San Francisco to Denver 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$ 141/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 143/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 338-US$ 436US$ 300-US$ 405US$ 423-US$ 521Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 339-US$ 394US$ 300-US$ 304US$ 425Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 339-US$ 999US$ 0-US$ 826US$ 427-US$ 1,639Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Many rental companies charge an additional fee for one-way rentals. Make sure to verify the cost while booking.
  • Route Restrictions: Some providers may impose restrictions on crossing state borders. Check their policies beforehand.
  • Vehicle Availability: Not all vehicle categories may be available for one-way rentals. Confirm the options before proceeding.
  • Advance Booking: Booking in advance increases the chances of securing better deals and the desired vehicle.
  • Fuel Policies: Understand the fuel policies of the rental agency, whether it requires topping off the fuel before return.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Research Popular Stopovers: If possible, plan to include iconic stopovers like Lake Tahoe or the Great Basin along your way.
  • Check for Local Events: Be aware of local events in both San Francisco and Denver that may affect availability and traffic on your dates.
  • Confirm Drop-Off Location: Ensure clarity on the exact drop-off location in Denver to avoid any confusion.
  • Pack Appropriately: The weather can vary significantly on this route. Pack attire suitable for both San Francisco’s cool breeze and Denver’s altitude.
  • Keep Necessary Documents Handy: Ensure your driver’s license, reservation details, and payment methods are readily accessible during your journey.
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 car before returning to avoid additional charges by the rental company.

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

Ensure the fuel tank matches the level indicated in the rental agreement.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along the route is approximately $3.80 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed on highways to optimize fuel consumption.

Regularly check tire pressure to ensure it meets the manufacturer's recommended levels.

Minimize the use of air conditioning when possible to conserve fuel.

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San Francisco Parking

Street parking in San Francisco is limited and often metered.

Consider using parking garages for longer stays to avoid fines.

Check for residential parking permit restrictions in certain areas.

Denver Parking

Parking in Denver is generally available at public garages and lots.

Metered parking is enforced in downtown areas from 8 AM to 10 PM.

Park-and-Ride locations are convenient for accessing public transport.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

PayByPhone

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes from San Francisco to Denver:
The I-80 and I-76 Interstate Route
Interstate 20 hours

This route follows Interstate 80 and Interstate 76, providing the most direct and efficient path between San Francisco and Denver.

Reno, NV , Salt Lake City, UT , Fort Morgan, CO
The Scenic Route via Yosemite
Scenic 24 hours

This route passes through Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering beautiful landscapes.

Yosemite National Park, CA , Las Vegas, NV , Grand Junction, CO
The Southern Route
Alternative way 25 hours

This route travels along scenic highways and makes for a diverse cultural experience.

Bakersfield, CA , Phoenix, AZ , Santa Fe, NM
Planning Your San Francisco-Denver Road Trip

Book Early: Reserve your one-way rental as early as possible to get the best rates and availability.

Route Planning: Choose a route based on your interests and the time you have available, whether direct or scenic.

Fuel Stops: Refuel regularly to avoid running low in rural areas with limited gas stations.

Check the Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the mountains.

Compare Costs: Check for one-way rental fees or additional charges to ensure affordability.

Travel Insurance: Consider insurance to cover unforeseen incidents such as mechanical failures or weather delays.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When planning a one-way car rental from San Francisco to Denver, selecting the right rental company is crucial to ensure a smooth journey.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$Wide selection including EVs and luxury vehiclesExtensive coverage in urban and rural areas 24/7 roadside assistance , Flexible drop-off terms , Reward program for frequent renters
Avis$$Eclectic mix including SUVs and compact carsStrong presence in airports Mobile app integration , No-contact pickup options , Free cancellation within 48 hours
Enterprise$Basic range including economy vehiclesWidespread within regions but fewer in remote areas Affordable pricing , Accommodative customer service , Local branches for assistance
National$$Mid-range with specialized carsGood airport and city location presence Emerald Club membership benefits , Multi-language support , Dedicated helpdesk for one-way solutions
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

Information About San Francisco Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Rental centers at San Francisco International Airport operate 24/7 to accommodate all flight schedules.

Location:

The car rental center is located at 780 N McDonnell Rd, San Francisco International Airport.

Shuttle Frequency:

A courtesy shuttle connects passengers from terminals to the rental center every 5-10 minutes.

Airport Transportation:

Convenient access to taxis and public transport options near the rental center facility.

Pro Tips for San Francisco Airport(SFO) Car Rentals

Arrive with your reservation details handy, and confirm availability directly with the rental company during peak travel seasons to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a one-way car rental from San Francisco to Denver?

A one-way car rental allows you to conveniently travel between San Francisco and Denver without needing to return to the starting city. This is ideal for road trips, relocations, or flexible travel plans.

Are there additional fees for one-way car rentals between these cities?

Some rental companies charge a drop-off fee for returning the car at a different location. It's important to check with the rental company for specific costs and terms.

What is the approximate driving distance and travel time for this route?

The driving distance between San Francisco and Denver is approximately 1,250 miles, depending on the exact route taken. The estimated travel time without extended stops is about 19 to 20 hours.

Can I choose a specific type of vehicle for this one-way rental?

Yes, rental companies offer a variety of vehicle options, including economy cars, SUVs, and minivans. Ensure you select a vehicle that suits your luggage and passenger needs.

What should I know about fuel charges for a one-way rental?

Fuel policies vary by company. Most require the rental car to be returned with the same fuel level as when rented. Additionally, planning stops at major cities along the route can optimize fuel costs.

Ready to Book Your San Francisco to Denver Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

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