Transit
This page contains important information about Metro Vancouver’s transit system, as well as information on the U-Pass program, which gives Regent students helpful access to all of Metro Vancouver’s transit system.
Public transportation in Vancouver
Vancouver has a fairly extensive public transportation system called Translink. It includes buses, a light rail system called the SkyTrain, and a commuter ferry called the SeaBus.
The Translink website has information about routes and schedules, and a very useful trip planning feature on its home page. Wondering how to get to Regent by public transit? Visit our Getting Here page.
Access Public Transportation with your U-PASS
If you're studying on campus in Vancouver, you will need three things to access Metro Vancouver's public transit:
- A UBC card
- A Compass card to access Translink
- Access to UBC's U-Pass Program, in which students taking 3 or more credits are automatically enrolled via their student fees
Opting Out of the U-Pass Program
Online students living outside of Metro Vancouver are eligible to opt out of U-Pass Program, provided they heed the Opt Out deadlines. Click the button below to learn more.
UBC Card, U-Pass and Compass Card
What is a U-Pass?
How do I get my UBC Card, Compass Card & U-Pass?
What if I don't live in Vancouver? Can I opt out of this?
Am I eligible for a U-Pass in the Summer?
Other important information
Airport
The Vancouver International Airport is located just 20 minutes from campus by car, and is also accessible by public transit using the SkyTrain's Canada Line.
Cycling
Vancouver has many cycling paths crossing the city. Many students buy a good raincoat for the wet days and cycle to Regent. UBC and Regent are separated from the city by a beautiful forested park, which makes cycling and walking a wonderful experience.
UBC provides online cycling routes, or you can visit the City of Vancouver's site.
Driving
If you plan to drive in BC during your time at Regent, here are a few things to consider.
Driver's licenses and car insurance can be obtained through the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).
According to ICBC, if you are a full-time visiting student (whether Canadian or international), you can retain your driver's license from your home province or country. However, this applies only to the registered student, not to your spouse. Spouses can drive on their current license for three months, but then are required to get a BC driver's license. This period can be extended to six months if they have an International Driving Permit. International students are advised to keep a copy of their study permit and UBC card with them while driving.
If you are a North American student, you can either insure your vehicle with ICBC, or you may be able to retain insurance coverage from your home province or state, providing you register the insurance with ICBC. Detailed information can be found on the ICBC website.
Parking
Regent College no longer has its own parking lot.
Regent students can purchase monthly or semesterly parking passes at University Chapel. Find out more or contact University Chapel here to secure your parking space. Day parking rates are not available at University Chapel.
A number of parking options are available on the wider UBC Campus, including:
Metered parking: There are quite a few parking spots with paid meters on the side streets just behind Regent College—on Western Pkwy, Dalhousie Rd, and Allison Rd.
UBC paid lots: UBC operates two paid lots within a 5-minute walk of Regent College—at the UBC Hospital on Wesbrook, and behind the War Memorial Gym on Wesbrook. Get info and directions.
UBC Parking Passes are available through UBC Parking. Hourly rates for visitors are also available. Please visit their website for up-to-date rates.
Taxis / Uber
A taxi fare from Regent to downtown Vancouver or from Regent to the airport is approximately $35. These are the most common taxi companies operating in Vancouver.
- Black Top & Checker Cabs, 604.683.4567, toll-free 1.800.494.1111
- MacLures Cabs, 604.683.6666
- Vancouver Taxi, 604.871.1111, toll-free 1.800.871.8294
- Yellow Cab, 604.681.1111, toll-free 1.800.898.8294
Uber also operates in Vancouver. You will need to download the app to access this service.
BC Ferries
Planning to explore some of the islands off the coast of Vancouver? Visit the BC Ferries website for schedules and fares.
Trains and buses
- The Rocky Mountaineer offers train rides to Whistler.
- VIA Rail is Canada's chief railway line, connecting Vancouver with the rest of the country.
- Amtrak Cascades carries passengers between Vancouver, Seattle, and Portland.
- Greyhound provides bus transportation between cities, and covers routes across the entire country.
More information
For more information on transit in Vancouver, visit the BC Passport website.
