UCLA Student Guide to Public Transportation in Los Angeles

Introduction:Living in Los Angeles as a UCLA student doesn’t have to mean owning a car. In fact, many Bruins successfully rely on public transportation to get to class, work, or explore the city. Whether you live in Westwood or further off-campus, understanding LA’s transit system can save you time, money, and the headache of parking. This guide breaks down the top transportation options available to UCLA students and how you can use them to get around the city with ease.

Getting Around UCLA with Public TransitSanta Monica Big Blue Bus:One of the most popular choices for UCLA students, the Big Blue Bus system operates numerous routes connecting Westwood to Santa Monica, Brentwood, and Downtown LA. Line 1 and Rapid 12 are especially useful for commuting to campus from nearby areas. As a bonus, UCLA students ride for free with a valid BruinCard thanks to the U-Pass program.

LA Metro Bus and Rail:The LA Metro system operates buses and rail lines across the entire city. Key routes like the 720 Rapid and 20 Local travel along Wilshire Boulevard, giving you access to Koreatown, Downtown LA, and Beverly Hills. While the nearest Metro rail stations are a bit farther, you can connect to the E (Expo) Line via the 720 bus and travel to places like Culver City and Santa Monica.

UCLA BruinBus & Campus Shuttles:UCLA’s BruinBus service offers free shuttle transportation around campus and to nearby housing communities. Shuttles run frequently during peak hours, making it easy to commute between classes, residence halls, and off-campus apartments in Westwood.

Metro Bike Share & Campus Biking:For short commutes, Metro Bike Share and UCLA’s own bike programs are a great way to get around. The Westwood area is bike-friendly, and UCLA offers bike repair stations and secure racks across campus. Many students opt for personal bikes as well, especially if they live within a 2-mile radius.

How to Pay:UCLA students are eligible for subsidized transportation programs, including discounted TAP cards for Metro buses and trains, and a free Big Blue Bus pass through the Bruin U-Pass program. Payments and card reloading can be managed online or at kiosks across the city.

Conclusion:Getting around Los Angeles without a car is entirely doable when you're at UCLA. From free shuttles to convenient bus lines, public transportation provides students with an affordable and efficient way to explore the city and commute to campus. Understanding the available transit systems early on can help you stay mobile while saving on gas, insurance, and parking costs. Embrace LA’s growing transit network and discover just how connected you can be—even without a car.