Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?

No, you won't need to own your own vehicle in Vancouver, but, if you prefer this option, you must obtain a valid driver's license as well as car insurance. Parking is not difficult in Vancouver because there are more than 350 above- and below-ground parking facilities. However, they are hard to spot since they are often located under or behind buildings. To find them, look for parking signs.
↑ Top

How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?

Even if you possess a license from another region in Canada, or from another country, you will need to apply for a Vancouver driver's licenses within 90 days of moving to British Columbia (B.C.). A new equivalent class B.C. driver's licence will be issued in most cases without a road test or knowledge test. Some new residents, depending on the type of driver's license they hold, will be required to take a road test.

You may drive for up to six (6) months as a visitor or non-resident worker in B.C. You may be exempt from transferring to a B.C. licence if you are attending a designated institution for study. If you hold an international driving permit, you must also carry that foreign licence. For more information on getting a valid driver’s license in B.C., contact one of the Drivers Services Centers in Vancouver.
↑ Top

What side of the road do people drive on?

In Vancouver you will drive on the right side of the road.
↑ Top

Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.

B.C. Transit is a very affordable mode of transportation in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. Vancouver's public transportation includes regular buses, sea buses and a sky train. You'll have the option of purchasing day passes (valid for unlimited travel on the day of purchase), a book of 10 Faresaver tickets or a monthly bus pass. These are all available for purchase at various locations such as (the grocery store) Safeway and 7-Eleven.

For more information to get bus schedules visit Trans Link.
↑ Top

Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.

Yes, public transportation is safe and affordable.
↑ Top

In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?

Vancouver is a very safe city and consistently ranks in the top three of the world's most liveable cities. Like any major metropolitan area, travel within certain parts of the city at night can be risky. Parked cars with foreign or out-of-province license plates make easy targets and so theft from vehicles become problematic. Although robberies and muggings are extremely rare, your belongings can be stolen if you leave them in your car overnight. Drug addicts have been known to break in to cars, to steal coins from the ashtray. Valuables in plain view will be taken, too.

Vancouver is ranked, overall, the eighteenth safest city in the entire world. As such, visitors should feel free to explore the city. You should, however, exercise caution at all times.
↑ Top

Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?

There are several options for obtaining tickets and passes in Vancouver. Look for the FareDealer signs, or stores like Safeway, 7-Eleven or London Drugs. If you wish to, you can use ticket vending machines (TVM) as well. If a machine malfunctions, there is the chance of getting a refund. Visit the websites listed below for more information on purchasing tickets and passes.
↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.