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Explore the California Coast in One-Way Rental

Enjoy seamless travel from San Francisco to San Diego with our top-rated rental services.

Document required for international visitors
  • 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).

    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. At airport locations, proof of return airline flight may be required. Renters indicating a country of residence outside the United States or Canada will also need to present a return airline ticket.

  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card types: XpCard, DcCard, UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur a fee of US$ 25.00-27.00 per day, depending on the rental provider.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted licenses include: 1) Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is only a translation, original licence must be presented); 2) Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with English translation on the back; 3) Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English.

    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. At airport locations, proof of return airline flight may be required. Renters indicating a country of residence outside the United States or Canada will also need 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 UnionPay, Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card types: XpCard, DcCard, UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur a fee of US$ 25.00-27.00 per day, depending on the rental provider.
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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 46-532US$ 0.00-399.00US$ 138-671Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 48-176US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 151-355Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 48-526US$ 0.00-399.00US$ 151-657Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 47-213US$ 0.00-399.00US$ 141-423Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 205-205US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 415-415Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 172-665US$ 0.00-399.00US$ 347-347Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand One-Way Fees: Be aware of additional fees for dropping off the vehicle at a different location.
  • Check Your Documentation: Ensure you have a valid driver's license and credit card at the time of rental.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: Verify if cross-state or cross-border travel is permitted with your rental vehicle.
  • Vehicle Options: Opt for a vehicle suitable for your journey, considering both comfort and fuel efficiency.
  • Return Time Flexibility: Understand the policies regarding the return timing and late fees to plan accordingly.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Your Route Effectively: Consider stops for sightseeing along the scenic route between San Francisco and San Diego.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy to avoid extra charges. Fill up near your drop-off location if required.
  • Insurance Coverage: Verify what insurance comes with the rental and consider additional coverage if necessary.
  • Prepare for Weather Variations: Pack accordingly and ensure your car has essentials for any weather variations along the journey.
  • Keep Emergency Contacts: Save rental support and roadside assistance contact numbers for emergencies.
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
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Shell - 2521 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Chevron San Diego - 4180 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103, United States

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid rapid acceleration.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to improve mileage.

Use air conditioning sparingly as it can increase fuel consumption.

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San Francisco Parking

Consider using public transportation options to avoid parking hassles.

Parking in San Francisco can be challenging due to limited spaces and high demand. Expect higher rates in downtown areas.

San Diego Parking

Look for parking validation options when visiting malls or restaurants.

Parking is generally more available in San Diego, with downtown areas offering structured parking facilities.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help you find and book parking spots in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with a FasTrak transponder or inquire about toll payment options with the rental company.

Plan your route to avoid toll roads if you wish to minimize expenses.

Toll roads such as I-15 Express Lanes may be encountered along the route. FasTrak is widely used for toll collection.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Explore Scenic Routes Between San Francisco and San Diego:
Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1)
Scenic Coastal Route 10-12 hours

This iconic coastal route offers breathtaking ocean views, passing through charming towns such as Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara.

Santa Cruz , Big Sur , Santa Barbara
Interstate 5
Direct Highway Route 8-9 hours

A straightforward and faster route, ideal for those aiming to reach San Diego efficiently.

Los Angeles , Anaheim
The Central Valley Road
Agricultural Valley Route 9-10 hours

Pass through California's agricultural heartland with scenic views of vineyards and farms.

Fresno , Bakersfield
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choosing the Right Vehicle: Opt for a comfortable car with enough storage space for your needs, considering road conditions and fuel efficiency.

Create a Flexible Itinerary: Plan key stops but allow flexibility for unplanned detours or attractions.

Understand Rental Fees: Be aware of any one-way fees and additional charges applicable to your rental agreement.

Time Your Travel: Start early to avoid traffic, especially when passing through metropolitan areas.

Plan for Fuel Stops: Know where gas stations are located, especially on routes with long stretches between cities.

Prepare Necessary Gear: Carry essentials like a physical map, phone charger, and snacks for a smoother journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Explore car rental companies that offer reliable and hassle-free one-way rental services from San Francisco to San Diego.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise$$HighExcellent Wide range of vehicle options , Outstanding customer service , Extensive branch network including city and airport locations
Hertz$ModerateGreat Competitive pricing , Comprehensive insurance options , Easy booking process
Budget$$ModerateGood Affordable rates , Convenient locations , Online reservation management
Avis$$$HighExcellent Premium fleet , Loyalty rewards program , Priority assistance for customers
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

Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers typically operate 24 hours at major locations.

Location:

Detailed directions to reach the rental car center from the airport terminals.

Shuttle Services:

Frequent shuttles operate between the airport and the rental car center every 5 to 15 minutes.

Vehicle Pickup:

Clear signage and dedicated pickup areas streamline the process.

We highly recommend reserving your vehicle well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The major benefits include flexibility in planning your travel itinerary, cost savings compared to returning a vehicle to the original location, and the opportunity to explore more freely along the route.

Are there any additional fees for one-way car rentals?

Yes, most car rental companies may apply a one-way fee, also called a drop-off fee, since the vehicle is not returned to its original rental station. This fee varies depending on the company.

Can I choose any vehicle type for my one-way rental?

Typically, all vehicle types are available for one-way rentals. However, availability may depend on the specific car rental location, so it is advisable to check in advance.

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

The drive from San Francisco to San Diego is approximately 500 miles and typically takes around 8 to 9 hours without accounting for stops or heavy traffic.

Are there recommended spots to visit while driving between these cities?

Yes, popular stops include Monterey Bay, Big Sur along the Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles, offering scenic views and attractions.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes