Transportation

CMU provides multiple transportation options to commute to, and navigate, our campus. The university, as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and efficient regional development, continues to invest in “green” methods of transportation, such as mass transit, shuttles, car sharing, safe pedestrian pathways, and bicycle/personal wheeled vehicle lanes and storage. For those that cannot use these methods, CMU also offers several vehicle parking garages and lots throughout campus.

Visitors:

CMU visitors have multiple ways to travel to our campus. Learn more about our visitor transportation and parking options.

Faculty, Staff and Students:

Members of the Carnegie Mellon community can use CMU's shuttles and evening escort service, as well as the nearby University of Pittsburgh's shuttle services, to get around campus and neighboring areas. Carnegie Mellon also has an agreement with Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) to allow our faculty, staff and students to ride PRT buses, light rail and inclines using their CMU ID card - view www.rideprt.org for transit details and schedules. Visit our Transportation Services website to learn more about these options, as well as information about personal wheeled vehicles and campus parking.

Purchasing a Car

Owning a car in the US can be expensive. There are ownership costs (purchase price, taxes, depreciation, finance charges, registration, insurance, license fees, parking, etc.) as well as operating costs (gas, oil, annual inspections, engine maintenance, tires, etc.). If you’d like to research this option, Consumer Reports Magazine and Car and Driver Magazine are good resources. You can also visit CarEverything and NADA for more information. Automobile insurance rates for people who are new to the US are usually inflated until a driving history has been established. Be aware that parking on campus is very difficult and costly to obtain and is limited in many residential neighborhoods close to campus. Obtaining a Pennsylvania driver’s license may also be difficult. Do not purchase a car without first determining if you’ll be able to obtain a Pennsylvania driver’s license, which you must have before you are able to register the car. You may wish to discuss auto insurance for the US with your current auto insurance company at home.

Pennsylvania Driver’s License

You will only be able to receive a Pennsylvania driver’s license if your I-20, DS-2019 or H-1B status is valid for more than one year. If you will stay less than one year, and you would like to drive, you must bring your valid current home-country license and the international drivers permit (in English). Students and scholars who will stay for more than one year should apply for the Pennsylvania Driver’s License soon after arrival. To receive a driver’s license, you will need to pass (1) a vision test and physical exam, (2) a written knowledge test, and (3) a driving test. Further directions can be found at the Pennsylvania DMV website and also on OIE's webpage.