Transportation

Transportation in Taiwan

Taiwan's transportation infrastructure is modern, efficient, and affordable. You can live comfortably without a car, especially in Taipei.

Taipei Metro (MRT)

The MRT is the backbone of Taipei transportation - clean, safe, and punctual.

Etiquette:

• Stand right on escalators, walk left
• No eating or drinking
• Priority seats for elderly/pregnant
• Keep quiet (locals often nap)

EasyCard (悠遊卡)

The essential card for all Taiwan transit:

Where to get: Any MRT station, convenience stores

Cost: NT$100 deposit + top-up amount

Accepted:

• MRT in all cities
• All buses
• Taiwan Railways (short trips)
• YouBike
• Convenience stores
• Many restaurants and shops

Buses

Extensive network throughout Taiwan:

• Fare: NT$15-30 per ride
• EasyCard accepted
• English announcements in Taipei
• Apps: Bus Tracker Taiwan

High-Speed Rail (HSR)

Connects major cities at up to 300 km/h:

Tips:

• Book online for early bird discounts (up to 35% off)
• T Express app for mobile tickets
• Frequent departures (every 10-30 min)

Taiwan Railways (TRA)

Regular trains connecting all cities:

• Slower but more stations
• Cheaper than HSR
• Scenic coastal and mountain routes
• EasyCard for short trips

Scooters

Taiwan's most popular personal transport:

Renting:

• Short-term: NT$300-500/day
• Long-term: NT$2,500-4,000/month
• Requires international driving permit or Taiwan license

Buying:

• Used scooters: NT$15,000-40,000
• Registration, insurance required

Electric scooters (Gogoro):

• Battery swap stations everywhere
• Subscription model
• Popular and eco-friendly

YouBike (Bike Share)

Public bicycle system:

• Stations throughout cities
• First 30 min: NT$5
• Registered with EasyCard
• Great for short trips

Taxis & Rideshare

Taxis:

• Yellow cabs everywhere
• Metered, starting at NT$70
• Generally honest, safe
• App: 台灣大車隊 (Taiwan Taxi)

Rideshare:

• Uber operates in some areas
• LINE Taxi popular
• Similar pricing to taxis

Getting a License

International Driving Permit (IDP):

• Valid 30 days for visitors
• Can convert to Taiwan license within 1 year

Taiwan License (ARC holders):

• Written test in English available
• No road test for many countries
• Required for scooter purchase

No Car Needed

Most expats in Taipei don't need a car:

• Excellent MRT coverage
• Cheap taxis for convenience
• Scooters for flexibility
• HSR for travel

Exception: Families in suburbs or those living outside major cities may benefit from a car.