How to get around NSW

Cars and driving

Can international students drive in NSW? The short answer is yes. If your driver licence is in a language other than English, it must include an English translation from an accredited source. Learn everything you need to know about getting a driver licence in NSWExternal Link .

If you do not have a current driver license, you will need to learn about NSW road rulesExternal Link .

Taxis and ridesharing

Taxis, also called “cabs”, are popular in NSW. You can book them:

• on the phone
• online
• from a taxi rank
• from hailing one on the street.

If the taxi light is on, it is available.

Fares are calculated by a meter inside the taxi that must be clearly visible to the passenger. You can pay for your taxi in cash, and most taxis have EFTPOS for debit and credit cards. If you have an issue with your journey, take a note of the driver's ID number and the taxi licence plate, and report it to Transport for NSWExternal Link .

Ridesharing is also popular in NSW, and you can download one of several ridesharing apps to book them.

Public transport

NSW has a large and effective network of public transport including buses, trains, light rail, trams, and ferries. You can either use your credit card to “tap on and off” or purchase an Opal Card, which is an electronic transport ticketing system where you can load up a prepaid card with money.

International Students need to purchase an “Adult” Opal card rather than a “Student” one. See Transport for NSWExternal Link  for more information on:

• Travel Advice for Sydney, Newcastle and across NSW
• How to apply for an opal card, how the cards work and the benefits of opal cards
• Planning your trip in NSW