One highway, two very different roads
US-83 is one of the longest north–south highways in the country, and Laredo sits along its Texas stretch. Through part of the city it shares the road with I-35, then it splits off in both directions.
South of Laredo, US-83 follows the Rio Grande past Rio Bravo and El Cenizo, about 16 miles out, then continues through San Ygnacio to Zapata. In Zapata County it’s largely a two-lane highway, and TxDOT has proposed widening it to a four-lane divided road.
North of Laredo, US-83 leaves I-35 at Exit 18 and heads northwest toward Carrizo Springs. The exit is also signed for the future I-27 corridor.
Reference points
| Location | What’s there | Notes for drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Laredo | I-35’s southern end at US-83 / Victoria Street | Near the international bridges |
| Rio Bravo and El Cenizo | About 16 miles south of Laredo | Residential river towns |
| San Ygnacio | Zapata County | Rural, largely two-lane |
| I-35 Exit 18 | US-83 north splits from I-35 | Toward Carrizo Springs |
South: the river road
The southern stretch carries commuters, local work trucks, construction haulers, and trucks running to Zapata County. It’s a much quieter road than I-35 — which is exactly why a breakdown here can take longer to sort out. On two-lane sections, shoulders can be narrow and passing traffic close.
North: ranch country toward Carrizo Springs
North of I-35, US-83 crosses open ranch land. Traffic includes freight, ranch trucks, and oilfield traffic heading into the Eagle Ford area around Carrizo Springs. Long gaps between services mean a tire failure or a derate can leave a driver waiting a while — give dispatch as precise a location as you can and a clear description of the problem so the mechanic comes prepared.
Staying safe on a two-lane shoulder
On two-lane roads, federal rules call for warning devices both ahead of and behind the truck, because traffic approaches from both directions. Get as far off the pavement as possible, turn on your hazards, and set triangles out within 10 minutes of stopping. Watch for dry grass under a hot exhaust. Our breakdown guide shows exactly where triangles go.
Services most often needed on US-83
- Mobile Tire Service
- Emergency Roadside Assistance
- Jump Start & Fuel Delivery
- Suspension & Driveline Repair
- Hydraulic Hose & Air Line Repair
- Mobile Welding
- Electrical & Charging Repair
Towns along this route
US-83 roadside repair FAQ
Where does US-83 split from I-35 north of Laredo?
At I-35 Exit 18, where US-83 heads northwest toward Carrizo Springs.
How far is Rio Bravo from Laredo on US-83?
About 16 miles south of Laredo.
Do you cover US-83 south toward Zapata?
We cover US-83 through Rio Bravo and El Cenizo and on toward San Ygnacio. Farther south, call with your location and dispatch will tell you straight whether a mechanic can reach you.
Where do warning triangles go on a two-lane highway?
One about 10 feet from the truck on the traffic side, one about 100 feet behind, and one about 100 feet ahead, since traffic approaches from both directions. See our breakdown guide.