There are plenty of ways to get around in Guernsey. Whether you prefer to travel by car, bus, taxi, cycle or even walk it won't take long to get used to navigating your way around the island.
By Car
Driving in Guernsey is different as many roads are narrow lanes with high hedges and granite walls. The maximum speed limit for the island is 35mph (56kph). Guernsey’s lanes are a pleasure to explore and, unlike the UK, there are no dual carriageways or motorways.
You may also spot some road signs and road markings that are not familiar to you, for example some junctions have a 'filter in turn'. At these junctions, all directions have equal priority and you must only enter the junction in turn with other vehicles when your exit is clear.
If you are relocating to Guernsey permanently, you are welcome to bring your car with you but you are required to re-register your vehicle within 14 days of your arrival. To do this you will need to have your vehicle's current and original registration documentation to hand.
Importing a vehicle to Guernsey
You are also required to exchange your driving licence within one year of moving here. A full driving licence issued by many countries can be exchanged for a Guernsey driving licence by the States of Guernsey's Driver & Vehicle Licensing department.
Exchanging your Driving Licence
Driving licences from countries not on the list cannot be exchanged. Individuals must pass a theory and practical driving test in Guernsey before a full Guernsey driving licence can be issued. An exchange of foreign driving licence application cannot be completed online. You must submit your application in person at Edward T Wheadon House or by post.
Public Parking
All public parking in Guernsey is free. However, most on-street parking and car parks in principal shopping areas are marked as disc zone and you must use a 'parking clock' to indicate your time of arrival, date or night. The time limit for that particular disc parking place starts from the time you parked your vehicle.
Disabled parking spaces are also available and can be used when displaying a valid blue badge permit which are available from Driver & Vehicle Licensing (DVL) at Bulwer Avenue. Parking clocks are available for purchase from DVL, the Guernsey Information Centre and the Police Station.
Cycling
Bicycles are a great way to get around as Guernsey is only 25 square miles in size. Designated bike parks can be found at most public car parks in town and around the coast. The island has a network of lanes called Ruette Tranquilles. The lanes allow easy access to coastal roads and into town, promoting a recommended speed limit of 15mph with priority given to walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
Buses
Guernsey is serviced by a modern fleet of buses with 24 routes that can take you all around the island. Whether you are travelling to work or to the beach, all major attractions are just a short bus ride away with low-floor and full access for wheelchair users, pushchairs and some smaller mobility scooters. Each bus is fitted with a live tracker which enables you to pinpoint your bus in real time, making catching the bus even easier.
Taxis
Guernsey has a regulated, licensed taxi service based at three ranks in St Peter Port, St Sampson (on the Bridge) and at Guernsey Airport. Four accessible taxis are also available on island. It is advisable to book taxis wherever possible, especially when you wish to travel early in the morning or during the evening when demand is greatest.
List of Guernsey Taxi Companies
You can also download the new Guernsey Taxi App on Android and iPhone, which will help you to request a taxi in real time. This on-demand app will help you locate a taxi and also give you an estimation of the journey's cost - though taxi payment will still be taken from the in-vehicle taxi meter and paid directly to the driver.