How do you drive in Orlando, Florida?
Main roads to know
Interstate 4 is the main highway through central Florida. It runs through downtown Orlando and past Walt Disney World and Universal, and it is often congested during rush hours and peak tourist season. Other major roads include the Beachline (SR 528), the Central Florida GreeneWay (SR 417) and SR 429, which are toll roads for most of their length.
Florida drives on the right, and speed limits are posted in miles per hour. Many Orlando roads have long distances between signals and fast merges near interchanges, so use a navigation app and watch for lane changes.
Tolls and rental cars
Most major Orlando-area toll roads use electronic tolling. The SunPass system is widely used, and visitors can buy or rent a transponder, or pay by plate under the toll agency's rules. Rental car companies often charge their own daily or per-toll fees, so compare those costs before you choose a car.
Check whether your rental car has a toll device and how the company bills for tolls you use. Some toll roads send bills to the rental company, which then bills you, often with an added fee. If you plan to drive a lot, ask about a toll package and read the fine print.
- Expect heavy traffic on I-4 at rush hours
- Set up SunPass or confirm your rental's toll plan
- Use a navigation app that shows live traffic
- Drive carefully near theme park entrances
- Keep a safe following distance in construction zones
Common mistakes
- Ignoring toll roads and then getting billed later with administrative fees.
- Assuming I-4 traffic is light at all times, when it is often slow during peak hours.
Related questions
- Do you need a car to get around Orlando?
- How does the Orlando public bus system work for visitors?
- What is the best way to get from Orlando International Airport to Disney World?
- Is it worth taking a rideshare like Uber or Lyft in Orlando?
- How do you use the SunRail train in Orlando?
- What are the toll roads in Orlando and how do you pay them?