Published:  September 11, 2025

Getting around Los Angeles can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to the city. With its size, traffic, and countless neighborhoods, transportation is an essential part of student life. Whether you’re heading to class, the beach, or downtown, knowing your options will save both time and money.


Here’s a student-friendly guide to LA transportation, covering Metro, bikes, rideshare services, and parking near UCLA and Westwood.

Student riding Metro bike share in Los Angeles

©UCLA Transportation

Metro (Bus + Rail)

The LA Metro is one of the most affordable ways to get around. A TAP card is required and can be used across Metro buses, trains, and several local transit agencies. UCLA students can also apply for the Bruin U-Pass, which offers unlimited rides on Metro and other local systems, making it the best budget-friendly option.


The Expo Line connects Santa Monica to Downtown LA — perfect for beach trips or city adventures. Local bus routes also make it easy to get around Westwood and nearby neighborhoods.

Tip: Download the Transit app or Google Maps to track live schedules and plan your route.


Bikes and Scooters

For quick trips, bikes and e-scooters are convenient and affordable. Services like Bird, Lime, and Lyft Scooters are widely available in Westwood, while UCLA’s BruinBike Share offers a student-friendly way to get across campus or nearby spots.


Tip: Always park scooters in designated areas and wear a helmet — LA enforces rules on scooter use.


Rideshare (Uber + Lyft)

When public transit isn’t convenient, rideshares like Uber and Lyft are a reliable option. They’re especially useful for late nights, airport runs, or when traveling with roommates. Splitting rides keeps costs low, and both companies often provide student discounts or promo codes near UCLA.


Parking

Having a car in LA gives you flexibility, but parking can be one of the biggest challenges. In Westwood, street parking is limited, and campus permits are competitive.

  • UCLA offers ePermits, but they can be difficult to secure.
  • Street parking comes with time limits and strict enforcement.
  • Private lots and garages provide convenience but usually at a higher cost.


Tip: Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz help students find and reserve parking in advance.


Choosing the Best Option

The right mode of transportation depends on your lifestyle:

  • On a budget? Metro passes and bike shares are your best bet.
  • Heading out at night? Rideshares are the safest and easiest choice.
  • Driving to campus? Be ready to plan ahead for parking costs and traffic.

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