Expats should find using public transport and driving in the Channel Islands fairly straightforward. The roads are easy to navigate, as is the local bus and ferry network. Both Guernsey and Jersey are pretty compact and easy to get around. Most expats choose to drive in the Channel Islands, although the islands’ bus systems are efficient enough to get by without a car.
Public transport in the Channel Islands
Buses
Guernsey and Jersey have efficient bus services. LibertyBus operates buses in Jersey and charges passengers a flat rate. Tickets are available for purchase on the bus or via the LibertyBus app. In Guernsey, the island-wide bus service – branded as buses.gg and operated by Stagecoach – also runs on a flat standard fare.
Frequent users can take advantage of the pay-as-you-go smartcard called the puffinpass, which offers discounted daytime fares.
Trains
The smaller isle of Alderney has the only railway service in the Channel Islands. Mostly a historical attraction, the track is just two miles (3.2km) long and runs on Saturdays from May to September, as well as some bank holidays.
Ferries
Ferries are a popular means of getting from island to island. In addition to these inter-island ferry connections, there are regular services to France and the UK.
Useful links
- LibertyBus: Jersey Bus Service
- buses.gg: Guernsey Bus Service
- Guernsey Puffinpass Smartcard
- Alderney Railway
Taxis in the Channel Islands
Taxis cover both main islands, and can be caught at designated ranks or booked ahead of time by phone or online. The official tourism websites of Jersey and Guernsey each have lists of reputable taxi companies. Neither Uber nor Bolt operate in the Channel Islands; however, Jersey has several local taxi apps, including the Jersey Taxi App and Ryde.
Useful links
Driving in the Channel Islands
Driving in the Channel Islands is on the left-hand side of the road. While Guernsey and Jersey generally have excellent road networks, the smaller islands of Sark and Herm are car-free zones.
Expats planning to have a vehicle in the Channel Islands will also need to consider the challenges associated with island driving. Parking is limited, so the local authorities strictly enforce it; motorists who park in the wrong spot or exceed their allotted parking time may receive fines. On the other hand, fuel is relatively affordable compared to the price in England, and distances are short.
Driver’s licences
Once resident in the Channel Islands, expats must obtain a local driver’s licence. Some countries have an exchange agreement that allows expats to swap their foreign driver’s licence for a local one. If you are from a country without such an agreement, you’ll have to pass practical and written tests to get your driver’s licence.
Useful links
Cycling in the Channel Islands
Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in the Channel Islands. Guernsey and Jersey both have cycle networks, with many routes available for different ability levels.
Domestic flights in the Channel Islands
Guernsey and Jersey each have a major airport accessible by bus and taxi. Both airports offer parking and car hire facilities. Flights between the two islands take around 20 minutes.