Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Santa Clara to San Jose. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
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. 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.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 46/dayStarting from
US$ 46/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 45-US$ 82 | US$ 0 | US$ 136-US$ 226 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 46-US$ 82 | US$ 0 | US$ 136-US$ 171 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 47-US$ 286 | US$ 0 | US$ 139-US$ 561 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 46-US$ 92 | US$ 0 | US$ 136-US$ 193 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Premium | US$ 83-US$ 95 | US$ 0 | US$ 201-US$ 239 | Families, comfort seeker |
| Van | US$ 121-US$ 164 | US$ 0 | US$ 344-US$ 420 | Large families, groups |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 56-US$ 106 | US$ 0 | US$ 166-US$ 241 | Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges.
Keep the receipt as proof of refueling.
Ensure the fuel level matches the level at the time of pickup.
The estimated average fuel price in San Jose is around $4.50 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to improve mileage.
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle.
Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Parking costs range from $1 to $2 per hour in downtown Santa Clara.
Utilize public parking lots for better availability during peak hours.
Consider using parking apps to reserve spots in advance.
San Jose offers various parking options, including street parking and garages.
Rates in downtown areas typically range from $1.50 to $3 per hour.
Look for free parking zones in residential areas.
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A scenic route leading to the beautiful Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Explore the vibrant Stanford University campus and lively downtown.
A coastal drive to enjoy stunning ocean views and local seafood.
A nature lover’s paradise with majestic redwood trees and hiking trails.
Choosing the Right Car: Select a car that suits the distance and road types of your journey.
Understand Rental Costs: Be aware of one-way rental fees and inquire about all-over costs.
Plan Your Route: Use GPS and maps to ensure the most scenic and time-efficient travel.
Fuel Up: Know fueling policies and refuel before returning the car if needed.
Safety First: Check road conditions and weather forecasts before starting your trip.
Account for Time: Plan stops and allow buffer time for unplanned events along the way.
Select carefully only companies that provide one-way rental services from Santa Clara to San Jose.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | $ | Excellent | High | Wide variety of vehicles , Flexible pickup and drop-off locations , Affordable rates |
| Hertz | $$ | Very Good | Medium | Premium vehicle options , Discounts on long-term rentals , Convenient customer support |
| Avis | $$ | Good | Medium | Well-maintained vehicles , Loyalty rewards program , Multiple rental packages |
| Budget | $ | Good | Medium | Competitive pricing , Diverse vehicle types , Simple booking process |
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Most rental centers operate between 7 AM and 11 PM, with some offering extended hours.
Accessible rental car centers are situated in downtown areas of Santa Clara and San Jose.
Regular shuttle services are available connecting major transportation hubs to the rental locations.
Many centers offer GPS rental, child seats, and alternative fuel vehicles.
Verify the availability and terms of one-way rentals beforehand to avoid unexpected fees.
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