Car rental in Oakland, CA
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Rental cars in Oakland, CA
Let loose in Oakland
A colorful city brimming with music, art, and activism, Oakland’s scenic perch on the San Francisco Bay belies its energy. Whether you’re hitting up the nightlife in bustling Jack London Square, grabbing tasty dumplings in Chinatown, or soaking in the local culture, chances are Oakland will charm you.
When you’re done exploring vintage boutiques and dining in historic bars, head out to experience Northern California’s redwood forests, wine country, and the stunning Golden Gate Bridge.
Oakland favorites
The Town’s one-of-a-kind waterfront scene is both trendy and historic.
Lake Merritt
This former tidal lagoon in the heart of downtown has become one of Oakland downtown’s major attractions. Along a three-mile shoreline, you can enjoy beautiful gardens, watch light displays, or simply take in picturesque views of the city. Lake Merritt is also home to the nation’s oldest designated wildlife refuge.
Oakland Museum of California
Stroll through centuries of Californian art, history, and natural science at the Oakland Museum. Highlights include the Dorothea Lange archive and an exhibit on the state’s seven unique ecosystems.
Jack London Square
Once the heart of Oakland’s seaport operations, Jack London Square is now a dining, shopping, and entertainment destination that draws crowds all year long. Named for author Jack London, who grew up on the Oakland waterfront, it’s a happening place with an authentic Oakland vibe.
Top hosts in Oakland, CA
TIMMY M.
Joseph M.
Rent cars in Oakland, CA
Hit the road
The Bay Area is full of excitement and beauty in every mile. Napa and Sonoma, and even Livermore Valley, are wine country central, featuring gorgeous vineyards, fancy wine tours, and fine dining. Oakland’s neighboring city of Berkeley is home to the University of California and the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement. A few hours’ drive up to the mountains will bring you to iconic natural sites like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe.
Rent the perfect carReinhardt Redwood Regional Park
Just a few miles from downtown Oakland lies the East Bay’s largest remaining natural stand of coastal redwoods. Peaceful and awe-inspiring, it’s the perfect local attraction for a hike, a picnic, or wildlife viewing.
San Francisco
Just across the Bay Bridge, San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise that's also known for its charming neighborhoods and wealth of amazing attractions. A few stops to hit: Golden Gate Park, Baker Beach, China Beach, and round off your day trip with a visit to Alcatraz Island to tour the notorious prison.
Half Moon Bay
With stunning beaches and great local seafood, Half Moon Bay offers an oceanside getaway from the bustling metropolises of the Bay Area. Stroll along the sand and visit the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, and if you’re lucky, the fog won’t spoil an epic sunset.
Airport pickup made easy
Skip the rental car counter — easy pickup offered by hosts at hundreds of airports across the US, UK, Canada, France, and Australia.
Parking lot pickup & return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
Parking & airport fees
When picking up at some airports, you may be charged an airport fee according to the agreements in place with the airport. Parking fees are not covered by Turo — communicate with your host to confirm their process.
Free cancellation
Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.
Pickup near or at Airports
Recent reviews
Clean fast and early pick up price was amazing will be back once I’m in town again the 5th will recommend his car anytime reliable comfortable
Jessica’s Toyota Corolla was the perfect, safe, clean, fuel-efficient car for my extended weekend getaway.
Provided pick up in the closest parking lot and made it very easy to check in and out.
Best Oakland driving roads
San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge
The Bay Bridge spans from Oakland to San Francisco may not always be the most relaxing drive, especially during rush hour traffic, but it’s a breathtaking way to enter either city with views of the bay and city skylines. Halfway across, stop at Treasure Island: an artificial island built for the 1939 World’s Fair.
Grizzly Peak
Find the perfect vehicle, fuel up, and head up Centennial Drive to Grizzly Peak Blvd for a scenic road that snakes through the hills of the East Bay on its way to marvelous Grizzly Peak. Be sure to stop at the vista points for incredible views of the bay.
Wildcat Canyon Rd
Head into the Berkeley Hills for panoramic views of Oakland and San Francisco, then follow Wildcat Canyon Rd through Tilden Park for more scenic spots. For the full experience, keep going until you reach Inspiration Point, where you’ll be able to snap a picture worth 1,000 words.
Frequently asked questions in Oakland
What do I need to rent a car on Turo?
What do I need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France, you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
Do I need my own insurance?
Do I need my own insurance?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
What protection plan options are available on Turo?
What protection plan options are available on Turo?
When booking a car on Turo, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier, Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of coverage that’s right for you. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers — $750,000 for the Premier plan.*
How do I get discounts on cars in Oakland?
How do I get discounts on cars in Oakland?
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promotions, discounts, and deals on car rental alternatives in Oakland!
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period!**
Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?
Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?
Yes, many Turo hosts offer discounted prices when you book trips lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsWhat types of cars can I book in Oakland?
What types of cars can I book in Oakland?
Browse a wide selection of vehicles for all kinds of occasions and budgets on Turo. Find a full-size SUV for a family road trip, a pickup truck for some errands, or a sporty convertible for a special night out in Oakland. For the lowest prices, use the “budget-friendly” filter to browse economy vehicles.
How can I drive unlimited miles during my trip to Oakland?
How can I drive unlimited miles during my trip to Oakland?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
What payment methods does Turo accept?
What payment methods does Turo accept?
Turo accepts most credit cards issued by major financial institutions, including American Express and Discover cards, as well as debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo that are linked to a checking account.
Apple Pay and Google Pay on mobile devices are also accepted, but Turo does not accept cash or checks as valid payment methods.
What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?
What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?
You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. If you book a trip with less than 24 hours’ notice, you have one hour after booking to cancel free of charge. If you cancel after the free cancellation period ends, you will be charged a cancellation fee.
In the rare event a host cancels, you’ll be notified immediately so you can book another car, or we’ll help you find one. Your refund can be temporarily held to expedite rebooking, or the funds can be returned to your bank account — your choice.
What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?
What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?
Under the enhanced cleaning policy, hosts are required to clean and disinfect their vehicles thoroughly before every trip, so you can feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Turo hosts have access to training materials on enhanced cleaning practices, using the latest recommendations compiled from the CDC, EPA, WHO, and vehicle detailing experts, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Is Turo a rental car company?
Is Turo a rental car company?
No. Unlike rental car companies, Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace where you can book directly from trusted local car owners in the US, Canada, and the UK. Turo does not own any vehicles — Turo hosts share their own personal cars and set their own prices, discounts, vehicle availability, and delivery options.
Are there cars available near the Oakland airport?
Are there cars available near the Oakland airport?
Yes, there are hundreds of cars available on Turo at locations near the Oakland airport. After arriving at the Oakland International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, or Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport, skip the rental counter and have your car rental alternative delivered for pick-up and dropoff at your Oakland hotel or the address of your vacation rental to save time and hassle.
Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?
Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?
There is no fee or additional charge for adding a driver to your trip on Turo. Only the guest who booked the trip (primary driver) can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add authorized drivers before your trip starts, though guests in the US and Canada can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress with no extra charges.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How easy is street parking in Oakland?
How easy is street parking in Oakland?
The busy city streets in the downtown area can make parking tricky at rush hour or when there are special events going on. But the city offers plenty of metered parking and parking garages both downtown, in Chinatown, and the Lake Merritt area. On weekends, parking is free at metered spots.
What types of sports cars, luxury cars, or exotics can I book in Oakland?
What types of sports cars, luxury cars, or exotics can I book in Oakland?
You can find nearly endless options for sports cars, luxury cars, and high-performance exotics on Turo. Filter your search by category, vehicle type, or vehicle make to refine your results, or try the “Deluxe Class” and “Super Deluxe Class” filters to browse high-end luxury car rental alternatives near Oakland.