Transportation and Parking

There are plenty of ways to get around in Gainesville, whether by the public bus system, biking, walking, driving a car or riding a motorcycle/scooter, any method is simple to figure out after learning a few tips.

RTS is Gainesville’s local bus system, and UF students pay a transportation fee as part of their tuition that allows them to take the bus anywhere on or off campus. Routes run throughout campus and Gainesville. To ride, students must present their GatorONE card to the driver. For bus routes and maps, visit the RTS website. 

Gainesville is a bike-friendly city. Students can use any of the bike racks located around campus for a convenient way to get to class, the libraries or visit friends on campus. Cyclists must obey all traffic signs, lights and signals, including the 20-mph speed limit on campus. It is important to always wear a helmet and observe traffic laws. When riding at night, bikes are required to have a headlight and reflective taillights for safety.

Bike locks are another essential safety feature in preventing theft and should be used at all times on and off-campus. Off Campus Life also recommends registering your bike through UFPD. For more information visit the UFPD website.

On-campus parking requires a decal. The hours of decal restriction for most areas of campus are 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Without a decal, some areas are available for parking on weekends or after hours on weekdays. Be sure to read all signage before parking because some spots are reserved 24/7 for specific permits despite the designated parking lot hours.

To purchase a permit visit the Transportation and Parking Services website. To purchase a parking permit, you will need your UFID, UF email, home address, cell phone number, valid license plate number, and all outstanding citations and late fees must be paid. Parking permits are virtual and are connected with your license plate.