Car rental Plano, TX

Top tips for renting a car in Plano

Whether you're hopping between corporate meetings or heading out for a family day at one of Plano's many parks, having your own set of wheels makes all the difference. To keep your trip smooth and stress-free, here's everything you need to know about driving, parking, and getting around town in a rental car.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Plano?

Driving in Plano is straightforward, but a little local know-how can make your trip even smoother. Speed limits generally range from about 30 miles per hour (mph) in town to 70 mph on highways like the Central Expressway (US-75). If you're new to Texas roads, keep in mind that right turns on red are allowed unless posted otherwise, but you'll still need to come to a full stop and check for pedestrians.

Plano is big on safety, so school zones are strictly enforced, with speed limits dropping to 20 mph when lights are flashing on signs in the area. The city also follows Texas' hands-free driving law, which means no texting or holding your phone while behind the wheel. You may also encounter high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, which are reserved for cars with at least two passengers. They can be a great shortcut during peak hours, but solo drivers aren't allowed in most cases unless they have a toll-exempt hybrid or electric vehicle.

While Plano's weather is mostly warm and sunny, sudden rainstorms and the occasional ice day can make driving tricky. Heavy rain in spring and summer can lead to slick roads, and in winter, black ice can form on bridges and overpasses. If you're driving during bad weather, give yourself extra space to brake and keep an eye on local traffic updates.

What is parking like in Plano?

Plano is a driver-friendly city, and finding parking is usually a breeze. Malls, shopping centers, and restaurants almost always offer free parking, with plenty of open spaces, especially at spots like The Shops at Legacy, Legacy West, and The Boardwalk at Granite Park. Most business centers and office parks also have large, dedicated lots, making it easy to park if you're in town for work.

If you're heading to Downtown Plano, parking is a bit more limited, especially on weekends or during events like the Plano Texas Forever Festival or the Dickens Holiday Festival. There are several free public parking lots and garages, such as the 15th Street Public Parking Garage, but they can fill up fast.

Are there toll roads in Plano?

Yes, highways in the Dallas-Fort Worth area use electronic toll systems. If your trip includes highways like the Dallas North Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike, Sam Rayburn Tollway, or the US-75.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Plano?

Finding a place to fuel up in Plano is easy, with plenty of gas stations along major roads like Preston Road, Coit Road, and Parker Road, as well as near busy commercial hubs like Legacy West and The Shops at Willow Bend.

If you're renting an EV or a hybrid car, Plano has several EV charging stations to keep you powered up. You'll find EV charging stations all around the US-75, at Legacy West and Stonebriar Centre, Oak Point Park, the Maribelle Davis Library, and various hotels and office buildings downtown.

Do I need to rent a car in Plano?

While public transport is available, it's not the most efficient way to get around, especially if you plan to explore beyond city limits. Whether you're making a quick trip to Dallas, a weekend escape to Denton, or a scenic drive through Texas' open roads, having your own car gives you total freedom.

Pick a car that suits your trip on Turo, whether it's an SUV for extra space, a sleek performance car for a fun drive, or an affordable sedan for everyday convenience. With your own set of wheels, you can explore Plano and beyond — at your own pace and on your own schedule.