In Texas, there are many unique driving experiences. San Antonio is one city that plays a role in that. Driving in this iconic city with famous sites such as The Alamo (don’t forget that one!) and the River Walk can be a bit confusing if you are not used to it. While it is nothing completely crazy, it is helpful to know what you are getting yourself into beforehand. That’s why we compiled this list of helpful things to know before driving around the home of The Alamo, (we hope you still haven’t forgotten it!).

Right of Way Rules of the Road

Something that is not unique to San Antonio driving, but still essential to remember, is yielding to pedestrians and emergency vehicles. Something that is a bit more unique is when on a freeway or highway, you should only move into the left lane if you are passing vehicles, otherwise, you keep to the right lane.

Toll Roads

Depending on where you are coming from, these may be a completely foreign sight for you. For example, those coming to Texas from California will likely be entirely lost when it comes to navigating toll roads. San Antonio city itself does not have any toll roads, but it frequently is brought up to build some. Around the city, however, there are toll roads. You can pay automatically by having a TxTag, you can pay via mail, or by going online to the Texas State Highway website.

Parking

Most metropolitan cities are nightmares to park in due to limited lots and spaces. San Antonio is unique in that there is plenty of parking options. There are many large and decently priced parking garages and lots throughout the city.

Speed Limits

The speed limits in the city of San Antonio are slightly different from the norm in other places. In residential areas, the speed limit is 30 miles per hour, 5 mph higher than a commonly seen 25 mph limit. This same applies for school zones and business districts.

Cell Phone Use

Something that is at least specified and more enforced in Texas is the need to be completely disconnected from a cell phone, even Bluetooth-connected devices while driving in school zones.