Car rental Midland, TX

Top tips for renting a car in Midland

Texas is one of the best states in the US to take a road trip, whether you head up to Amarillo to join the legendary Route 66 or opt to stay close to home, exploring Midland, Odessa, and surrounding towns. The highways are long, straight, and flat, framed by arid landscapes and desert fauna. Before you start driving around Midland and beyond, consider these tips for a safe and seamless journey.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Midland?

Driving in Midland, Texas is an enjoyable experience for those who love to cruise along wide, open country roads – we can hear John Denver already! But there are still a few things to be aware of before you put foot to pedal, including unique Texan road rules you may not have encountered before.

Along with the typical US road rules – driving on the right-hand side of the road, obeying road signage, wearing a seatbelt at all times, and adhering to speed limits – Texas enforces a 'left lane for passing' law that mandates drivers only use the left lane on highways for overtaking slower vehicles. There's also the 'right-on-red' rule, which permits drivers to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, and the 'Move Over or Slow Down' law, which requires drivers to change lanes or reduce their speed when passing emergency vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road. Lastly, Texas – like many other states – has banned people from using their phones while driving unless on hands-free.

Speed limits in Midland vary, but tend to range between 30 and 45 miles per hour (mph) on city streets and in residential areas, and can get up to 75 mph on interstates – some of the fastest speed limits in the country. Midland is an industrial town, so you'll likely encounter large trucks and work vehicles during your drives. To stay safe around these vehicles, keep a safe distance and do not tailgate – if a truck in front of you is driving slowly, use the overtaking lane to make your way in front of it safely.

The flat terrain in the area also makes Midland prone to dust storms, where visibility can be greatly impacted. Use your low-beam lighting during dust storms, and pull over if you're unable to navigate the road safely.

What is parking like in Midland?

While Midland is a growing city, it's still got that small-town Texan feel to it – evidenced by its ample free parking. Finding a spot to leave your car shouldn't be hard, whether you're visiting downtown, local attractions, malls, or the suburbs. There's an abundance of free parking bays on the street throughout downtown Midland, with a handful of secure parking garages right in the city center, close to Centennial Park along Wall Street. If you do encounter a metered spot or a paid garage, prices are very affordable.

Are there toll roads in Midland?

There are no toll roads in Midland, which makes it a cost-effective city to explore by road. Major highways like the Interstate 20 (I-20) and State Highway 349 connect Midland to nearby locations with ease, and thankfully, they're completely free to drive on. If you plan on visiting cities further afield, such as El Paso, San Antonio, or Austin, you may encounter one of Texas's 25 toll roads. But, if you venture into New Mexico, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that there are no toll roads in the entire state!

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Midland?

Gas stations are plentiful throughout Midland, with major brands like Exxon, Chevron, Shell, and Valero well-represented in both the city center and the outer suburbs. If you're en route to Midland from the airport – which is just a 20-minute drive from town – you'll find lots of options to fill up your tank along Interstate 20 and State Highway 349. Once you reach downtown, there are lots of choices along main roads, including Big Spring Street, Front Street, Wall Street, and Texas Avenue.

While Midland's electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is still in its infancy, there are options to charge up your rental vehicle during your stay – just be sure to plan your drives strategically, as smaller Texan towns aren't known for being particularly tech-forward! If you're looking for an EV charging station in downtown Midland, try car dealerships like the Sewell Buick GMC on Wall Street or malls and shopping centers like the Walmart Supercenter along the I-20.

Do I need to rent a car in Midland?

Although there are buses that service the Midland-Odessa area, the easiest and most enjoyable way to traverse Texas is with your own car. Buses can be unreliable, especially if you're trying to explore the area at length or need to stick to a strict itinerary. By renting a car on Turo, you're giving yourself – and your travel companions – total freedom and flexibility to see the beauty of the Lone Star State on your own timeline. The best part is that you'll have your choice of vehicle classes, from pickup trucks to sleek sports cars and everything in between.