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Car rental San Jose, CA

Discover the Turo car rental marketplace

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Extraordinary selection

From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget

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Liability insurance included

Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans

Free cancellation

Easy airport pickup

You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada

Rental cars in San Jose, CA

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Tesla Model 3 car rental San Jose, CA

Rent a car in San Jose on Turo

There's no need to wait around for unreliable public transit or expensive rideshares. Whether you're in town for work or vacation, a car rental in San Jose makes getting around this global tech hub easy and convenient.

Book a compact car for zipping through narrow downtown streets, or upgrade to an SUV for added comfort if you're venturing further from the city. Head over to the Turo app to browse through the wide range of vehicle classes and find the perfect match for your San Jose adventure.

San Jose car rental: How it works

On Turo, renting a car in San Jose is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across San Jose, California and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.

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1. Find the perfect car

Enter a date and location in San Jose, CA (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.

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2. Select a pickup location

Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.

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3. Hit the road

Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of San Jose, CA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.

Recent San Jose car rental reviews

Chevrolet Spark 2019

Great on gas the host was available whenever I need him for any questions I can't wait to rent the car again the experience is awesome

Antionette
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Tesla Model 3 2023

My first time driving a tesla and it is very smooth and I love electric car now with the gas prices so high and all.

pua
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Tesla Model 3 2023

Car was very clean, easy pick up and drop off. Nice experience as as a first time Tesla driver. Thanks!

Shannon
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Abbas
Volkswagen Beetle 2014

Great car and very responsive host. Highly recommended.

Abbas
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Tesla Model 3 2023

Amazing rental experience! We had a pet emergency and while he didn’t allow pets in his vehicle, he made an exception and didn’t hesitate to let us take our pup to the Vet. We will definitely be using this rental again.

Breanna
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Tesla Model 3 2023

Great experience, easy to work with. Vehicle was clean and well maintained.

Victor
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Devin
Tesla Model 3 2023

Graham has an amazing vehicle and was very easy to communicate with. Perfect for a quick visit+

Devin
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Ricardo
FIAT 500 2013

Amazing car! Smooth, comfortable, and very easy to drive. The host was also very communicative and helpful throughout the trip.

Ricardo
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sharon
Chevrolet Spark 2019

I needed a car in an instant because my car broke down and it took a while to fix and this car was readily available. Easy pick up and return with a lockbox !

sharon
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Jennie
Ford Fiesta 2015

Car ran way better than expected very smooth. Host was very responsive in a timely manner very greatful for that. Thank you again Michelle 💓

Jennie
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Aline
Polestar 2 2024

I absolutely loved the 5 months I spent with the Polestar! It’s an amazing, modern car and so smooth to drive. Plus, the host was fantastic, super helpful, and very friendly. I’ll definitely be renting from them again!

Aline
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Aliou
Chevrolet Spark 2019

I was happy using the car. Michelle and her husband were nice and helpful

Aliou
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Daunisha
Ford Fiesta 2016

Rented the car for 4 days. Pick up and drop off were easy. Car was just the size I needed and great on gas.

Daunisha
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Chevrolet Spark 2019

Easy pick up and return. Got me to where I needed to go, no issues!

Julie
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Rent a car and explore San Jose, CA

Things to do and places to see in San Jose, CA

San Jose is where cutting-edge tech museums, mysterious architectural wonders, chic shopping streets, and lively dining spots all converge in one vibrant city. Here are the top three spots not to miss while you're in this world-renowned business tech hub.

Rent the perfect car
San Jose, CA

Winchester Mystery House

Wandering through the historic Winchester Mystery House, you're immediately confronted by its architectural beauty mixed with its intriguing backstory. The winding halls, staircases to nowhere, and secret passageways will make you ponder why Sarah Winchester (the owner of this home) constructed this magnificent building over 36 years during the late 19th century.

The Tech Interactive

If there's a place that sums up the vibe and soul of Silicon Valley, it's got to be the Tech Interactive — San Jose’s science and technology center. This family-friendly spot allows you to explore a wide range of exhibits (ranging from space to anatomy), hands-on activities, and experience the IMAX theatre. Who knows? A visit here might just spark your next big tech idea.

Santana Row

When it's time to explore more of the stylish, luxury side of San Jose, head to this outdoor mall just west of downtown San Jose. Here is where you’ll get a chance to wander through unique boutiques, savor dishes at top-notch restaurants, soak up the energy of lively street events, and get a taste of the city's community spirit.

Why Rent a car on Turo?

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Cheap San Jose, CA car rental

Find deals on all kinds of drives in San Jose, CA and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.

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Convenient San Jose car rental pick up options

Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in San Jose, CA, like airports, train stations, and hotels.

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Relax with support & damage protection

24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.

San Jose car rentals for any occasion

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Business travel airport car rental

Need a smooth way to get around San Jose for meetings and conferences? Forget the airport shuttle and search for a fuel-efficient sedan or midsize car on Turo. With your own set of wheels, you can easily move between offices, client dinners, and networking events.

Vacation car rental

Rent a vacation rental car on Turo so you can explore San Jose's The Tech Interactive, Winchester Mystery House, and more at your own pace. No more relying on inconvenient shuttles or unreliable public transit. Choose from sedans, full-size luxury SUVs, or specialty vehicles to match your style and itinerary.

Weekend car rental

San Jose is a perfect starting point for a weekend getaway or a longer Northern California road trip. Whether you’re heading to the Santa Cruz Mountains, Half Moon Bay, or Monterey, premium SUVs, crossovers, and pickup trucks make your travels comfortable and convenient.

Turo vs. traditional car rental

Turo

  • App-based experience

  • No waiting in line

  • 1,600+ unique makes & models

  • Get the exact car you choose

  • Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations

  • Cars rented out by local small businesses

  • Vehicles and hosts rated by guests

Traditional car rental

  • Standard rental counter experience

  • Waiting in line

  • Limited car selection

  • Get one type of car “or similar”

  • Pickup at retail locations

  • Cars owned by large corporations

  • No vehicle ratings

Rental car pickup locations throughout San Jose 

Get your vehicle delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in San Jose, CA, including San Jose, CA airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular San Jose, CA pickup locations include:

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San José Mineta International Airport (SJC)

Skip the long lines at the regular airport car rental counter and rent a vehicle on Turo near San Jose International Airport instead. After collecting your luggage, simply open the app to locate your car, and you'll be on your way to exploring downtown San Jose and local attractions like The Tech Interactive in no time.

Downtown San Jose

Forget about making the long trek to a rental car center. Rent a car on Turo right in the San Jose city center near your accommodation or a prominent attraction that's easy to locate. Once you're behind the wheel, you can quickly move on to your next activity (whether it's meetings or a museum visit) without missing a beat.

Santana Row

Instead of searching for a traditional car rental facility near Santana Row, use Turo to find a convenient car nearby. Having your own rental vehicle lets you easily go from shopping and dining to your next activity without missing a beat — no public transit or rideshares required.

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Airport pickup made easy

Next time you fly, don’t wait in line and fill out forms — pick your car up at hundreds of popular airports.

Convenient 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.

No lines, no paperwork

Skip the rental car counter at hundreds of popular airports without waiting in line or filling out paperwork. Find and pick up the car with the app and hit the road in no time.

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.

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Pickup near or at Airports

Top tips for renting a car in San Jose


Follow these tips for a safe and smooth trip in your car rental (San Jose).


What are the road rules and driving conditions in San Jose?


San Jose has a well-planned road network, making it easy to get around by car. Major routes like the I‑280 and I‑880 link the city to nearby destinations such as Palo Alto and Santa Cruz, making it easy to explore the area.


You can expect heavy traffic during the usual morning and evening rush hours in downtown San Jose, around popular events, and shopping hubs like Santana Row. Give yourself extra time if you plan on heading out during these hours.


Always follow the posted speed limits when driving in San Jose. In urban areas, they typically range from 25–35 mph, while freeways can go up to 65–70 mph.


San Jose enjoys mild weather for driving most of the year. However, occasional winter rain can make the roads slick. Do check local forecasts before heading out and drive carefully if you're around during the wet season.


What is parking like in San Jose?


San Jose offers a variety of parking options, including metered street parking, surface lots, and private garages like ParkSJ: Fourth Street Garage. Always check signs for time limits, restrictions, or permit requirements to avoid fines, especially in busy areas near popular attractions, restaurants, and event venues.


Are there toll roads in San Jose?


Yes, there are toll roads in the San Jose area. Check the Fastrak website for more details about toll locations and how to pay.


Are there gas stations and EV chargers in San Jose?


Use apps like PlugShare or Google Maps to find the nearest gas station or EV charger in San Jose and check their operating hours.


You’ll find plenty of gas stations around San Jose, especially along major roads like 4th St and First St, so you can easily fuel up on your way in or out of town. There are also 2,000+ EV charging stations within 9 miles of San Jose.


Do I need to rent a car in San Jose?


It’s a good idea to rent a car while you’re in San Jose. While public transit exists, including light rail and buses, it’s limited compared with the city’s sprawling layout, and rideshares can add up quickly if you’re hopping between attractions.


With your own vehicle, you can easily explore downtown San Jose and other attractions, or take a weekend drive to the Santa Cruz Mountains or Half Moon Bay at your own pace.


Whether you prefer a compact car for city streets or a spacious luxury SUV for longer trips, find car rentals in San Jose on Turo to make the most of your time in the city and beyond.

Frequently asked questions about San Jose car rentals

What documents and paperwork do you 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!

What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?

Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.

Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?

To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.

How does car rental insurance work on Turo?

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.

Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?

You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.

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 promo codes, discounts, and deals.

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.

Learn how the loyalty bonus works

Is there long term car rental on Turo?

Yes there is - whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings 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 & discounts

Is there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?

Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. 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.

Can other people drive the car that I rented?

Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.

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 much does it cost to rent a car in San Jose? 

The cost of car rental in San Jose can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in San Jose, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.

What rental car types are there in San Jose?

There’s a wide variety of rental car options available on Turo, ready to match your trip through America's tech hub. Here’s a closer look at the types of vehicles you could search for on Turo at various San Jose locations.

If you're here on vacation, search for compact cars if you're looking for easy navigation downtown. Alternatively, opt for a minivan if you have a large group.

Planning a weekend road trip to the Santa Cruz Mountains, Half Moon Bay, or Monterey? SUVs, crossovers, and pickup trucks are great choices for comfort, convenience, and hauling any gear you might need for your adventures.

Business travelers flying into San Jose Airport might prefer practical options like sedans, compact cars, and hybrids. They’re convenient and economical for moving between the airport, hotel, and meetings around the city.

Whatever brings you to town, explore car rental types on Turo in San Jose to find the best vehicle for your plans.

* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. In the US, liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.

For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.