Car rental Overland Park, KS

Top tips for renting a car in Overland Park

Driving in Kansas is generally a relaxed experience, with friendly locals and wide, open roads that stretch around vast expanses of farmland. Before you hit the road, learn more about the local road rules so that you're totally at ease every time you get behind the wheel of your rental car.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Overland Park?

Brush up on your road rules before you drive in Overland Park, KS. Driving in the area is usually smooth and efficient, with well-maintained roads and manageable traffic. In Kansas, you must comply with state road rules, including driving on the right-hand side of the road, obeying road signage, coming to a full stop at stop signs, yielding to pedestrians at crossings, and adhering to local speed limits. In Overland Park, residential speed limits sit between 25 and 30 miles per hour (mph), while major roads like Metcalf Avenue and 119th Street carry higher limits of up to 55 mph.

There are a few unique road rules in Kansas to be aware of when cruising through the beautiful Overland Park area. For example, Kansas prohibits tire screeching via the unnecessarily hasty application of brakes or acceleration or deceleration — so always drive carefully and quietly to avoid a fine! In Kansas, you must not text while driving and can only use your phone on hands-free. Lastly, pay attention to your parallel parking while you're in Kansas, as the state enforces strict rules that require the car's right-hand wheels to be parallel to and within 12 inches of the right-hand curb.

As a suburb of Kansas City, rush hour traffic in Overland Park can still build up, but it's nowhere near as intense as its bigger neighbor's. In peak times, drive with caution on major roads like I-435 and US-69, where traffic often collects. Outside of rush hour, traffic in Overland Park is easy to navigate and circumvent by taking side streets if you're in a hurry.

Winters in the area can be snowy and icy, so always take appropriate precautions while driving. Although the city is conscientious when it comes to plowing and salting the roads, it's still critical to use snow tires or chains when snow is forecast. Don't forget you can filter rental vehicle options on Turo by snow tires.

What is parking like in Overland Park?

Finding a safe spot to leave your rental vehicle in Overland Park, KS, is easy and convenient, with plenty of accessible options throughout the city. Most shopping malls, restaurants, and attractions offer ample parking spaces, so struggling for a spot should be a rare occurrence. In busy areas like downtown Overland Park or major retail hubs such as Oak Park Mall, parking can fill up during peak times, but turnover is usually quick. Street parking is available in some areas, often with time limits but no meters. Unlike larger cities, it's quite tough to find parking garages in Overland Park – but this shouldn't pose an issue with the abundant street parking on offer.

Are there toll roads in Overland Park?

Want to save some cash on your visit to Kansas? Well, you're in luck – there are no toll roads within Overland Park, including on major roads and highways like the I-435 and US-69. However, if you're heading toward Wichita, Topeka, or beyond, you may encounter toll roads, including sections of the Kansas Turnpike (I-35, I-70, I-470, and I-335).

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Overland Park?

There are plenty of gas stations, as well as a growing network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers, to be found throughout Overland Park. When it comes to fueling up your vehicle, you'll find major stations like Shell, BP, and Casey's dotted throughout the town, especially near highways and shopping malls. Stop along major roads like Metcalf Avenue, 135th Street, and US-69 to make filling up quick and convenient. If you're headed to Overland Park from Kansas City International Airport, there are a fair few options along US Highway 71, as well as abundant places to stop in the Kansas City center.

EV drivers won't struggle to locate charging stations, including Level 2 and fast-charging options, throughout Overland Park and neighboring Kansas City. Head to hotspots like the Oak Park Mall or the Overland Park Convention Center, or keep an eye out along major streets including Metcalfe Avenue, Antioch Road, and W 87th Street. Here, you're bound to find ample options from big providers such as Tesla, ChargePoint, and Blink.

Do I need to rent a car in Overland Park?

Renting a car in Overland Park is highly recommended, especially if you plan to venture outside of the city center, visiting nearby locations like Kansas City, Topeka, or one of the area's many state parks. While Overland Park is well-serviced by rideshare options, public transit is very limited, with minimal bus routes on offer. Most of the attractions in the area are spread throughout the town and into Kansas City, so if you want to reach your destination swiftly and smoothly, a rental vehicle is definitely the way to go.