Car Rental in San Mateo, United States

Before your trip, confirm if your rental includes roadside assistance. This can be crucial in case of breakdowns or emergencies during your rental period.

Research fuel prices in the area where you'll return the vehicle. Filling up at a local station may be cheaper than paying for fuel through the rental company, especially if they charge higher rates.

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to San Mateo, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, rental rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

When renting a car, especially after travelling by train, allocate extra time for pickup to account for possible delays. Most car rental companies offer a 30-60 minute grace period. Sharing your train number can be helpful, but if you're running late, be sure to contact the car rental provider to let them know.

Driving during rush hour can lead to delays; try to avoid these times.

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.

Opt for a compact car for easier parking and navigation through busy streets.

Before driving away from San Mateo , thoroughly inspect the car for any damage. Document any existing damage with photos or video to avoid disputes later on.