Edmonton is a city that covers quite a large area of land, so getting around may be a challenge at times. Edmonton residents appreciate our efficient freeway system, as well as our well-maintained roads. Compared to most major cities, rush hour gridlock is seldom a problem, and many of the commuter routes to and from downtown are quick and sometimes quite scenic!
The City of Edmonton operates the Edmonton Transit System, a network of public transportation across the city. Buses service most routes, and a light rail transit line runs north from Clareview to the University Health Centre on the south side. Popular routes run as frequently as every 10 minutes on weekdays, but some of the outlying areas may require a wait of up to an hour depending on the time of day.
Taxi (cab) service is readily available in Edmonton. Taxis are more expensive than public transit but passengers are taken directly to their destination. Taxis can be hailed on the street but calling is recommended.
Bicycle and walking trails exist downtown along the river valley and along some of the busier pedestrian corridors (for example, the trails linking the Railtown development or along 122 Street), and some streets have dedicated public transit and bicycle lanes.
Bicycles are expected to follow traffic rules, and drivers are required to share the road with bicycles.
To operate a car, truck or van you need a driver’s license, and insurance and registration on your vehicle.
Driving in Edmonton
Alberta Motor Vehicles A good overview of information about driving, vehicle registration, insurance, and safety. http:/
Applying for a Drivers License This Government of Alberta website provides instructions on how to apply for a driver's license. http:/
Driving in Alberta (Foundlocally) A very helpful site, detailing general rules and regulations about driving in Alberta. http:/
Driving Schools (YellowPages) A very detailed list of driving schools, including address, phone numbers, contact information and web links. http:/
Winter Driving Provides tips on driving safely during the winter months. http:/
Public Transportation
City of Edmonton: Transit and Maps Information on Transit schedules, maps, and other transportation information. http:/
Edmonton International Airport Provides helpful information on flights, parking, ground transportation, travel and airport guide. http://www.edmontonairports.com
Edmonton Taxi Service Group Provides contact information for taxi service. http://www.edmontontaxiservicegroup.com/
Edmonton Transit Allows you to plan trips on the bus and light rail system. http:/
Edmonton Transit History (Wikipedia) This entry for Edmonton transit is fun, with a bit of history, pictures and quite a bit of current information. http:/
Yellow Pages Listings for Taxi Service List of all taxi companies in Edmonton. http:/
Finding Your Way Around
Driving in Edmonton Resources (Mapquest) Includes an interactive map of Edmonton, and some helpful links to insurance and other general services. http:/
Edmonton.com: Transit to Taxis The Getting Around section is searchable. It presumes you know how to use this kind of search, but if you do, it will take you to good links for everything from Edmonton transit to taxi companies. http:/
How to Get Around in Edmonton (Wikitravel) Very good general information about getting around in Edmonton, covering things like explaining the city’s grid system and finding addresses, and getting around by taxi, pubic transit and bicycle! The page also contains good information under categories like “do, eat, shop, learn, and work” with addresses and contact info. http://wikitravel.org/en/Edmonton


