Welcome to Portland, Oregon

Driving

Dogs over 50 lbs may legally drive in Portland (parking lots only).

Driving

First, the big question: do you need a car here?

That depends on a lot of things. If you don't need to regularly travel long distances, you can comfortably get along just fine without a car. However, as much as some might imagine it to be, Portland is not a car-free paradise. Many people drive, especially if they live somewhere poorly served by mass transit (outside the city core, or in the suburbs). Many others don't seem to be aware that they live in a 15 minute city, so they will fire up the car to drive 2 miles.

Driving culture and considerations

Speed limits in many parts of Portland are relatively low - 20-25 MPH in many spots. Most drivers seem to obey this, but we have our share of street racing assholes and folks who just don't care. And to be fair, when traffic is really light, it can be easy to unwittingly drive a bit faster than the limit and not feel like you're being unsafe.

Speed limits are set low to protect cyclists and pedestrians alike.

If you're going to drive, please be patient with the speed limits, and consider the bumper sticker:

Don't honk at me, I left on time!

Car sharing options

Getaround, Turo, Free2Move all operate in the city. If you need a car for a few hours or a few days, these services can be very convenient. Cars are simply parked in the neighborhood, often right on the street, and using an app, you unlock the car and get on your way. No waiting in line at Hertz or Avis.

You can also list your own car at Getaround, if you have an affinity for sketchy companies and even sketchier drivers.

Do I drive?

Yes, I'll use a car for a few things:

  • Suburban destinations, where using mass transit could take three times as long, or in some cases, just won't get you there.
  • Longer trips, especially in cold and/or heavy rain.
  • Getting outside the city for nature activities.

Auto theft

Portland has a problem with auto thefts. Don't leave anything of value visible in your car, it may get nabbed. Shout out to PDX Stolen Cars, a volunteer effort to reunite stolen cars with their owners.