Getting Around Albuquerque. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

ABQ Ride: Bus System

ABQ Ride is Albuquerque's public bus system. This system includes the ART (Albuquerque Rapid Transit) line along Central Avenue, efficiently connecting areas like Downtown, Old Town, Nob Hill, and the University of New Mexico.

Detailed route maps and schedules online on the ABQ Ride website or at the Alvarado Transportation Center (ATC) downtown. ATC a major hub connecting local buses, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, and Amtrak.

Fares & Accessibility

Single ride for an adult costs $1.00-$2.00. A day pass costs $3.00-$4.00.
Most routes run roughly from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM on weekdays with reduced weekend service.
All ABQ Ride buses wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts.
Use the ABQ Ride website or Google Maps for real-time bus tracking and route planning.

City Bus Network

ABQ Ride the main public transit. Albuquerque does not metro or tram systems.

ART Rapid Transit

The Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) line efficient connections along Central Avenue to city areas.

Alvarado Transport Center

This downtown hub connects local buses, the The Land of enchantment Rail Runner Express, and Amtrak services.

Transit Tips

Efficient Usage

Utilize the ABQ Ride mobile app for real-time tracking.
Pay cash (exact change) directly on the bus or use an electronic cards.
Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides within 24 hours.

Rider Information

Find detailed route maps and schedules on the ABQ Ride website.
Weekend and holiday service functions on a reduced schedule.
Service animals are permitted on all buses.

Fares at a Glance

Single Ride

$1.00 - $2.00

Day Pass

$3.00 - $4.00

Reduced Fares

Seniors, Students, Disabled

Payment Options

Cash (exact change), Mobile App, A Card with a chip

On-Demand Transport

Taxis and ride-sharing services convenient, on-demand transportation throughout Albuquerque, operating throughout the city.

Taxis & Hailing

Licensed taxis identifiable by rooftop signs and company branding.
You can signal for them on the avenue in high-traffic areas or call a company for pickup.
Taxis use metered rates, which include a base fare plus a per-mile charge.
Yellow Cab and Albuquerque Cab Co. Are common taxi services.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber and Lyft are common and popular choices.
These apps provide estimated fares and cashless payment for convenience.
Always verify the driver's name, license plate, and car make/model against the app.
Consider sharing your trip details with a trusted contact via the app.

Taxis vs. Ride-Sharing

Call for pickup or hail on the street.
Metered rates apply.
Designated can be found at the airport.

Book via app (Uber, Lyft).
Cashless, upfront fare estimates.
Flexible pick-up and drop-off.

Safety Reminders

Licensed Taxis

Ensure the vehicle is a licensed taxi with visible identification and meters.

Ride-Share Verification

Match the driver's name, license plate number, and car model with the app.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, do not enter the automobile and seek alternative transport.

Vehicle Rental & Sharing

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility for exploring Albuquerque and the wider New Mexico region. Other rental options exist as well for various activities.

Car Rental Procedures

Valid driver's license (U.S. Or international permit).
Major credit card in the renter's name.
Meet minimum age requirement (typically 21, drivers under 25 may incur fees).
Major companies like Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and Dollar at ABQ.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are required for all occupants.
Obey posted speed limits and use hands-free gadgets for mobile phones.
Traffic generally manageable, but expect congestion during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).

Specialty Rentals

Motorcycle & Scooter

Motorcycle rentals limited availability; check local specialty shops. Scooter rentals less common in Albuquerque.

Limited availability

Bicycle Rentals

Several local shops offer bicycle rentals, including electric bikes. Excellent for exploring the Paseo del Bosque Trail.

Widely available

Specialty Vehicles

Specialty vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys not available as transportation options in Albuquerque.

Not available

Driving & Parking Information

Road Conditions

Roads within the city are generally in good condition.
Major interstates (I-25, I-40) are well-maintained.
Rural roads can differ in condition.

Parking Availability

Metered street parking available downtown and in Nob Hill.
Public parking garages options for extended stays.
Many hotels and shopping centers offer complimentary parking.

Driving Safety Notes

Be aware of wildlife, like deer and coyotes, especially at dawn and dusk on rural roads.
During monsoon season (late July-early September), heavy rains can cause rapid inundation.
Always heed road closure signs and avoid driving through standing water.

Traffic generally manageable, but some congestion during typical rush hour periods (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) on major routes.
Cold-weather driving may caution in mountainous areas due to snow and ice.
Exercise caution in unfamiliar areas.

Local Mobility

Albuquerque's various transport options make getting around simple, whether you prefer public transit, ride-sharing, or self-driving.

Consider your itinerary and budget to choose the best method for your exploration and make the most of your visit.

← Previous

How to Get to Albuquerque

← Back to Albuquerque

Next →

Where to Stay in Albuquerque

Next Up: Where to Stay in Albuquerque. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Albuquerque