Getting Around Perth

Getting around Perth is easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transport network of trains, buses, and ferries, as well as well-connected roadways.

Perth public transport

Public transport in Perth is made up of a network of train, bus, and ferry routes serving the city’s metropolitan areas.

Alongside the networked Transperth bus and train system, a free Central Area Transit (CAT) bus system operates throughout the city. You can also travel on Transperth buses in the City of Perth boundary limits for free.

SmartRider cards are the cheapest and most convenient way to use Transperth services. The card is reusable, letting you top up with additional funds as needed. You can also purchase cash tickets from train stations, ferry jetties, and on buses.

There is a Free Transit Zone (FTZ) that allows SmartRider cardholders to travel for free by train between the Perth Railway Station and the City West and Claisebrook stations. You need to have a SmartRider card to access the FTZ using any of the train services, but you won’t be charged if your trip is within the FTZ boundaries.

To help plan your public transport trip around Perth, take a look at the Transperth website.

Taxis can be used to get around the city – you can usually flag one down in the CBD area, or you can book ahead by calling 13 CABS or visiting www.13cabs.com.au. The rideshare service Uber is also available in most areas – you’ll need to download the app to book a ride.

Driving in Perth

Perth’s road network is connected by three freeways and nine metropolitan highways – each of these roads is toll-free. The Mitchell Freeway connects the city centre to Joondalup, in Perth's northern suburbs. The Kwinana Freeway runs through the city's southern suburbs towards Mandurah and Bunbury. The Graham Farmer Freeway and the Northbridge tunnel provide a road link between East Perth and West Perth and act as a city bypass.

Getting a WA driver’s licence

If you’re a visitor to Perth, you can drive on your overseas driver’s licence for as long as it remains valid.

If you hold a permanent resident visa, you can drive on your overseas licence for up to three months. After that, you will need to apply for a WA driver’s licence.

To apply for a WA driver’s licence, you will need to visit your local service centre and present:

  • Your home country’s driver’s licence (with translation if required)
  • Three original ID documents, such as passport, birth certificate or signed credit card
  • Proof of your Australian address

In some cases, you will need to complete a driver/knowledge test and a practical driving test. If your current overseas licence is from a recognised country, you’ll be exempt from taking a test.

Hire cars in Perth

If you’re not planning to drive in Perth for very long, hire cars can be a convenient alternative. There many different hire options, with vehicles such as cars, vans, and trucks available for rental. You can compare car hire options in Perth at VroomVroomVroom.