Hertz Car Hire
San Francisco

The Hertz counter at SFO is conveniently located in the airport’s centralised Rental Car Center. After collecting your luggage, follow the overhead signs for the AirTrain, the airport’s free automated tram system. The AirTrain’s Blue Line takes you directly to the Rental Car Center from any terminal. Once you arrive, you’ll find the Hertz service desk inside the main building, ready to assist with your pick-up.

For the most efficient pick-up at SFO, first go to baggage reclaim to collect your luggage. Then follow the signs to the AirTrain station in your terminal and board the Blue Line. This tram provides a quick, direct ride to the Rental Car Center. Having your reservation details, driving licence and payment card ready will speed things up at the Hertz counter and get you on your way sooner.

The Hertz location at San Francisco International Airport is designed to accommodate travellers arriving on late flights. Major airport rental centres like this typically operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To help ensure a smooth process, it’s always good practice to include your flight number in your reservation. This helps staff anticipate your arrival, even if your flight is delayed.

On average, allow about 15 to 25 minutes to get from baggage reclaim to the Hertz counter. This includes the walk to the AirTrain station, the tram ride itself (which runs frequently) and the short walk from the AirTrain stop into the Rental Car Center. Total time can vary slightly depending on which terminal you arrive at and your walking pace, but the process is generally very efficient.

For a smooth rental experience at the Hertz counter, be prepared to present a few standard items. You’ll generally need a valid driving licence in your name, along with a major credit or debit card for the hire. It’s also helpful to have your reservation confirmation number available, either printed or on your mobile. International renters may need to show their passport as well.

Yes, Hertz offers the flexibility of one-way rentals, which is a popular option for travellers in the Bay Area. You can arrange to pick up your vehicle at SFO and return it to another Hertz location, such as downtown San Francisco, Oakland or San Jose. This convenience lets you tailor your plans, for example by avoiding a return trip to the airport if you’re staying in the city.

Returning your Hertz hire car for an early flight is straightforward at SFO’s Rental Car Center. As you approach the airport, follow the prominent overhead signs for "Rental Car Return". They’ll guide you directly into the dedicated facility, away from terminal traffic. Once you’ve returned the vehicle, take the 24-hour AirTrain for a quick ride to your departure terminal.

Finding the Hertz return area is simple if you follow the airport’s dedicated road signage. As you drive towards SFO, look for the large signs reading "Rental Car Return". These direct you onto separate roadways that lead straight to the Rental Car Center, bypassing the congested terminal drop-off loops entirely. Using sat-nav and setting the destination to "SFO Rental Car Center" will also provide clear, turn-by-turn directions.

When returning your car before an international flight, plan for a straightforward transfer after drop-off. You’ll return your Hertz vehicle at the centralised Rental Car Center. From there, board the AirTrain, which connects all terminals. Make sure you take the Red Line, which serves the International Terminal, and allow about 15–20 minutes for the return process and tram ride before you even begin airline check-in.

For first-time visitors, the main challenge when leaving SFO is merging onto the busy US-101 freeway, where traffic moves quickly. It’s also important to know the Bay Area has several bridges with all-electronic tolling. Your hire car will be equipped to handle these tolls, and you can discuss the process with Hertz staff at the counter. Using a GPS navigation app from the start will help you anticipate exits and lane changes.

The most direct route to downtown San Francisco is to take US-101 North from the airport. This major freeway leads into the heart of the city, with exits for key downtown areas. While it’s the most straightforward option, it can experience heavy traffic, especially during commute hours. Using a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze is strongly recommended for live traffic updates and lane guidance.

Driving south from SFO to Silicon Valley cities like Palo Alto or San Jose is primarily multi-lane motorway driving on US-101. By contrast, driving north into San Francisco involves the same busy freeway but ends with a transition into a dense urban environment. Once you exit the freeway in the city, you’ll immediately encounter one-way streets, heavy pedestrian traffic and more complex junctions.

Parking around Union Square is well known for being both difficult and expensive. On-street parking is extremely limited and often has strict time restrictions, making it unsuitable overnight. Your best option is to budget for a public or private car park, many of which offer overnight rates. Some hotels also offer valet parking, so it’s worth asking about packages when you book.

Driving in San Francisco presents a unique set of challenges that require your full attention. The famous steep hills demand careful vehicle control, especially when parking. The city’s grid features many one-way streets, so reliable sat-nav is essential. You also need to stay alert for cable cars, which have right of way, and share the road with many cyclists and pedestrians.

To minimise delays, avoid driving from SFO into the city during peak commute times, roughly 07:00–09:30 and 16:00–19:00. If your flight lands during these windows, you might consider waiting at the airport for a while. Alternatively, check a live traffic app to see whether I-280 is less congested than the more direct US-101, as it can sometimes be quicker.

Most Bay Area bridges use all-electronic tolling, meaning there are no cash lanes. Hire cars are typically fitted with a toll transponder or use a number-plate video system to record crossings. Hertz offers programmes that conveniently manage these tolls for you. Ask for details on how the service works when you collect your vehicle at the counter.

For a day trip to Napa Valley, a comfortable saloon or a stylish convertible is an excellent choice. The drive is about one to one and a half hours on highways, so comfort matters. A convertible can enhance the experience through scenic vineyards on a nice day. An SUV generally isn’t necessary unless you prefer the higher driving position or have a larger group.

Driving to Muir Woods requires planning ahead, as parking reservations are mandatory and must be made online before your visit. The road to the park is narrow, winding and can be challenging for larger vehicles, so a standard or compact car is recommended. Given its popularity, it’s best to go early to avoid the heaviest traffic on Marin County’s scenic but tight roads.

A day trip to Yosemite from San Francisco is very ambitious and makes for a long day. The drive is roughly four hours each way without traffic, which severely limits time in the park. While it’s technically possible if you leave before dawn and return late, most visitors find it more enjoyable to plan at least one overnight stay. This allows a more relaxed pace to see iconic sights like Yosemite Valley and the giant sequoias.

The most efficient route to Monterey and Carmel is to take US-101 South from San Francisco, then cut over to the coast via Highway 156 West to Highway 1. This avoids the slower, more winding sections of Highway 1 closer to the city. For a more scenic but longer journey, you can take Highway 1 all the way down the coast for spectacular ocean views from the outset.

To sample the classic Highway 1 drive, you don’t need to go far south of San Francisco. Consider stopping in Pacifica for dramatic coastline views or at the Devil’s Slide Trail for a stunning walk along a former section of the highway. A bit further on, the charming town of Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed feel, perfect for a short coastal outing.

When planning a Big Sur drive, first check the Caltrans website for any road closures, as landslides can affect Highway 1. It’s crucial to start with a full tank, as fuel stations are scarce and expensive along this remote stretch of coast. Also be aware mobile coverage is unreliable in many areas, so it’s a good idea to download maps for offline use before you go.

The best approach is to leave your hire car parked securely at your hotel or in a long-stay car park. The Fisherman’s Wharf area is extremely congested and parking is limited and expensive. Instead, use public transport like the F-Market & Wharves historic streetcar, ride-hailing services, or walk to the waterfront. This will save you significant time and frustration.

Areas with more accessible parking, such as the Presidio, Golden Gate Park and the Outer Richmond or Sunset districts, are generally easier to explore by car. By contrast, dense areas with limited parking, including North Beach, Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, are best visited on foot or by public transport. Driving and parking in these congested neighbourhoods can be a major challenge for visitors.

Visitors should be aware that car break-ins are a significant issue in San Francisco, particularly in tourist areas. The most important rule is never to leave anything visible inside your car, even for a few minutes. Always take valuables with you, including bags, electronics and jackets. Whenever possible, park in a secure, attended car park rather than on the street.

On-street parking can be confusing across San Francisco due to complex signage. Pay close attention to street-cleaning schedules, residential permit requirements and time limits. Kerb colours also matter: red means no stopping or parking, while green indicates a short-stay time limit. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to use a paid car park to avoid an expensive ticket or having your car towed.

Metered parking is common in San Francisco and time limits are strictly enforced, typically ranging from 30 minutes to a few hours. Most meters accept coins, credit cards, or payment via a designated mobile app, which can also alert you when your time is about to expire. It’s crucial to follow the posted limit, as parking enforcement officers are very diligent throughout the city.

Common mistakes include underestimating how steep the hills are and getting caught in turn-only or bus-only lanes. Drivers unfamiliar with the city often make abrupt lane changes to catch a freeway exit or a turn on a one-way street. Using sat-nav with voice guidance and having a passenger help with directions can help you drive more confidently and avoid these errors.

When travelling with children, consider hiring a vehicle with plenty of space, such as a people carrier or an SUV. This gives you more room for passengers, luggage and any required child safety seats. Picking up directly at the airport means you can load up your family and belongings straight away, avoiding the hassle of managing everything on other transport into the city.

For large groups with lots of luggage, the best options are typically a full-size SUV or a people carrier. These classes offer three rows of seating and the most generous luggage capacity. Booking one of these larger vehicles in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and a comfortable start to your trip from SFO.

An SUV is an excellent choice for Bay Area hiking adventures. It provides plenty of space for gear such as rucksacks, cool boxes and muddy boots. The higher ground clearance can also help when parking in unpaved lots often found at trailheads in regional parks. An SUV ensures you have a capable, comfortable vehicle for reaching the beautiful natural areas around San Francisco.

For a smooth pick-up during a tight connection or after a delay, it’s crucial to include your flight information in your Hertz reservation. This allows staff at SFO to monitor your flight status and hold your reserved vehicle. If you know you’ll be significantly delayed, it’s also a good idea to call the location directly to keep them informed of your updated arrival time.

If you’re returning your hire car during peak rush hour, it’s wise to allow at least 45 to 60 minutes of extra time. This buffer covers potential traffic delays on the freeways leading to the airport. It also allows for a slightly longer return process and the AirTrain ride back to your terminal, helping ensure you don’t feel rushed getting to your flight.

A highly effective approach is to split your transport. Use BART to travel from SFO into San Francisco and get around the city using public transport, walking and ride-hailing. On the day you want to start trips outside the city, simply take BART back to the SFO station to pick up your Hertz hire car. This gives you the freedom of a car for day trips without the stress of city driving and parking.

A hire car is the most convenient way to explore the Peninsula. SFO sits perfectly between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, with easy access to major freeways like US-101 and I-280. This gives you the flexibility to drive to places like Stanford University in Palo Alto or the downtown areas of Redwood City and San Mateo. Driving is mostly straightforward freeway and suburban travel.

In the Bay Area, motorway traffic typically moves at a fast pace, so be ready to merge efficiently and keep up with the flow. It’s customary to stay out of the far-left lane unless you’re actively overtaking. Within San Francisco, you must be especially vigilant for pedestrians, who often have right of way, and give plenty of space to the many cyclists sharing the road.

There are several conveniently located petrol stations just outside the airport in the neighbouring cities of Millbrae and San Bruno. As you drive back towards SFO on the freeway, you can take an exit for either town to refuel. Using a map app on your phone to search for "gas station" as you get close to the airport will show you the nearest and easiest options.

Driving to iconic viewpoints offers fantastic photo opportunities but requires patience. The roads up to places like Twin Peaks can be steep and winding. Parking at these popular spots is extremely limited and fills quickly, especially at weekends and on clear days. Be prepared to circle for a space or park further away and walk, and always lock your car and keep all valuables out of sight.

During peak seasons such as summer or major holidays, expect a busier experience overall. This can mean longer queues at the Hertz rental counter and heavier traffic on the freeways around SFO. To reduce the impact, it’s essential to book well in advance to secure your preferred vehicle type. Be sure to build extra time into your schedule for the entire pick-up and departure process.

The most effective approach is to use your hire car for trips outside the city, such as Napa Valley, Muir Woods or the coast. When you want to explore San Francisco itself, park securely at your hotel or in a public car park. Then make the most of the city’s extensive public transport network, including BART for longer distances and Muni buses and streetcars for getting around neighbourhoods, avoiding the challenges of urban driving and parking.