Public Transport
Bus travel
The public bus service in Tasmania is called Metro Tasmania. You can visit the Metro Tasmania website for information on routes, timetables, bus passes and travel planning.
Hobart ferry service
Hobart operates a ferry service between the city and the eastern shore of the Derwent River. The service is operated by Derwent Ferries and provides a convenient transport option for commuters.
Travel into regional Tasmania
Kinetic
If you’d like to explore more of Tasmania, Kinetic operates an extensive network of coach services, with routes reaching many regional and remote parts of the state.
Tassielink
Another alternative to exploring Tasmania is Tassielink. Tassielink connects Tasmania’s cities with regional areas, offering a range of options from daily commutes to exploring all corners of the state.
Registering a vehicle
In Tasmania, all motor vehicles must be registered with the Tasmanian Government. It's important to understand the registration requirements and how to check that any vehicle you own or plan to buy is registered and has not been reported stolen.
Buying a second-hand vehicle
When buying a vehicle privately, you act as your own quality control. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect the car before you pay is essential.
Things to check for:
- Start by researching the vehicle’s market value and completing a PPSR check to ensure it has no hidden debts, theft history or write-offs.
- Inspect the vehicle in broad daylight for signs of damage, leaks, rust or mismatched paint.
- Ask for a test drive starting from a cold engine and check the vehicle’s handling, brake and electronics.
- As private sales lack a dealer warranty, always secure a professional pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.
- Confirm that the seller's license matches the registration paperwork and organise insurance before driving the vehicle away.
- Remember to take someone with you when inspecting the vehicle and only transfer money once you are completely happy.
Taxis and ride sharing
Getting around Tasmania by taxi, or ride share such as Uber, is very simple, although things may work a little differently compared to larger cities.
Keep in mind that some smaller towns and villages may not have access to taxi or ride share services.
Uber
Uber operates in Hobart and Launceston, servicing the cities, surrounding suburbs and airports. As Tasmania is smaller, waiting times can sometimes be longer than in larger cities, particularly late at night or outside the immediate city centres. Both Hobart and Launceston airports have dedicated ride share pick-up zones. Just keep in mind there’s usually a small airport access fee automatically added to your fare.
Shebah
Shebah is a rideshare service driven by women, for women and kids. Availability is limited and primarily based in Hobart. To access Shebah you should download the mobile app and book you rideshare in advance.
Taxis
Taxis are highly reliable across the state, particularly when traveling outside the two main cities into regional areas (such as Devonport or Burnie) where other rideshare services may be more limited.
How do I catch a taxi?
- You can grab a taxi at designated ranks (for example, outside airports, major hotels or shopping centres), hail one on the street if the rooftop light on the vehicle is on or book by phone.
What taxi companies operate in Tasmania?
- The two main taxi companies in Tasmania are 13cabs and Taxi Combined. Both companies offer mobile apps where you can book for a fixed price ahead of time.
How do I pay for a taxi?
- Taxis run on a metered fare system. Standard daytime rates apply on weekdays, with higher tariffs in place after 8:00 pm, as well as on weekends and public holidays.
- For more information about taxis and ride share services in Tasmania, visit the Transport Services page.