Getting around in Richmond

Richmond’s public transport system is growing, with an expanding bus network and a reliable rapid transit option. Downtown and its surrounding neighbourhoods are fairly walkable, and the city promotes cycling with designated bike lanes and bike-sharing programmes. Even so, many locals still prefer to own a car, whether for family convenience or the freedom to explore Virginia’s scenic landscapes.

Public transport in Richmond

Public transport in Richmond is designed to be accessible. All GRTC buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and drivers receive specialised training to assist disabled riders and seniors. The CARE Service also provides door-to-door transport for those unable to use fixed-route buses.

Bus

The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) operates the city’s bus network, which primarily serves central Richmond but continues to expand into surrounding suburbs. GRTC regularly assesses routes to improve accessibility. For example, in 2024, Route 1 was extended by 3.5 miles (6km), adding 16 new stops to better connect residents with educational institutions like Reynolds Community College.

GRTC buses run frequently downtown but less often in suburban areas. If you’re commuting from outside the city centre, check the timetables, as service may be less frequent during off-peak hours.

GRTC Pulse

Richmond’s rapid bus system, the GRTC Pulse, provides a faster and more efficient way to travel through the city. Running along Broad Street and Main Street, the Pulse covers 7.6 miles (12km) and offers high-capacity transit, with buses arriving every 10 to 15 minutes. It’s a reliable and well-integrated part of Richmond’s public transport system.

Useful links

• GRTC Official Website
• GRTC Pulse Information
• Accessibility & CARE Service

Taxis in Richmond

Taxis in Richmond are available but are increasingly overshadowed by ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. You can hail a taxi in central areas or at designated ranks, but if you’re in the suburbs, you’ll need to pre-book one. Traditional taxis still have a presence, particularly for airport transfers and business travel, but most residents opt for the convenience of app-based ride services.

Uber, Lyft, and Bolt allow you to book a ride instantly, track your driver in real time, and pay without cash. However, surge pricing can significantly increase fares during peak hours or major events. Traditional taxis, on the other hand, offer regulated fares and experienced drivers.

Useful links

• Uber Richmond
• Lyft Richmond
• Bolt Richmond

Driving in Richmond

Driving in Richmond is straightforward, and the city’s layout makes it easy to navigate once you get familiar with key roads.  If you’re new to the area, take note of one-way streets in historic districts, as they can be confusing at first.

If you’re based downtown, a car may not be essential, as public transport and cycling routes are improving. However, in suburban areas, owning a vehicle is the norm.

Richmond’s traffic is milder compared to major East Coast cities like Washington, DC, although congestion can build up during rush hours, especially near interstates and downtown. The city sits at the crossroads of major highways, including Interstate 95 (north-south) and Interstate 64 (east-west), providing easy access to nearby regions.

Parking downtown can be tricky, with metered spaces in high-demand areas. Many drivers use parking garages or mobile apps to find available spots.

Driver’s licences

New Virginia residents must obtain local driver’s licences within 60 days of moving. The process requires proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the US, as well as your Social Security number.

If you already have a valid out-of-state licence, you may not need to take a driving test. For international drivers, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English.

Virginia enforces strict insurance requirements, so ensure your vehicle is covered before hitting the road. The state’s DMV website provides full details on obtaining a licence and registering a vehicle.

Useful links

• Virginia DMV – New to Virginia

Cycling in Richmond

Cycling in Richmond is growing in popularity, and the city continues to enhance its bike lane network. Richmond has over 130 miles (210km) of dedicated cycling infrastructure, including shared-use paths, cycle tracks, and bike lanes, making it easier than ever to get around on two wheels.

Recent developments include new bike lanes added during road repaving projects and improvements under the Vision Zero Action Plan, which aims to make cycling safer by reducing traffic fatalities and improving road designs.

Richmond’s most bike-friendly neighbourhoods include The Fan, Museum District, and Scott’s Addition. These areas feature flat terrain, grid street patterns, and easy access to bike lanes, making them ideal for cyclists.

For those without a bike, the RVA Bikeshare programme offers regular and electric bikes at docking stations throughout the city. While service reliability varies, the programme provides an affordable, flexible transport option.

Richmond’s cycling community is also active in promoting better infrastructure and road safety. Organisations like Bike Walk RVA advocate for improved cycling conditions, and annual events like the Cap2Cap ride help raise awareness about biking as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport.

Useful links

• RVA Bikeshare
• Bike Walk RVA
• Richmond Regional Cycling Plan