Transportation Services

Moving You Forward

Permits

  • When are parking permits required?

    Parking permits are required from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM, 7 days a week, when parking on campus with the exception below:

    The following lots do not require a paid permit when parking starting at 12:00 PM on Fridays through 6:00 AM Monday morning, in the unreserved spaces:

    • Lot 6 Blue
    • Lot 13 Blue
    • Big Springs Parking Structure 2
    • Gold lots (26, 30, and 50)*

    *Permits are also not required when parking in Gold lots (26, 30, and 50) during weeknights from 6:00 PM – 7:00 AM Monday-Friday.
     

  • Do I need a parking permit if I have a disabled placard?

    Yes. A Disabled Person Parking Placard or a Disabled Parking License Plate issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles alone is not a substitute for a valid UCR parking permit. 

    To utilize disabled parking spaces faculty, staff, students and visitors are required to have a valid UCR parking permit associated with their vehicle license plate, along with either a Disabled Person Parking Placard or DP license plate issued to them by the DMV. Placards must be displayed and clearly visible to parking enforcement officers or your vehicle will be cited.

    A temporary UCR permit may be purchased through the ParkMobile app by using Zone #2474 or through the online portal.

  • How do I add a vehicle to my permit?

    Please see 'Adding a Vehicle to Your Permit' for detailed instructions on how to add a vehicle to your permit.

  • Can Gold parking permit holders park in any red or blue lot after 6:00 PM?

    No. It must be in a NON-RESERVED Blue parking area in Lots 1, 6, 9, 13, 23, and 24. A NON-RESERVED BLUE LOT will have an entrance sign that states Gold parking permits are permitted 6:00 PM-7:00 AM in an unmarked/unreserved space.

  • Do I need a permit for Lot 25 to access the Rec Center?

    Yes, a valid permit is required. Valid permits (Gold, Gold Plus, Red or Blue) are allowed to parking in lot 25 once a day for a max of 90 minutes in Non-Reserved spaces. Orange are valid only after 6:00 PM one time per day. Housing and Campus Apartment permits are not valid at any time.

  • Is a permit required on the weekends?

    Parking permits are not required on the weekends when parking in the following lots starting at 12:00 PM on Fridays though 6:00 AM Monday morning, in the unreserved spaces:

    • Lot 6 Blue
    • Lot 13 Blue
    • Big Springs Parking Structure 2
    • Gold lots (26, 30, 50)

    Parking permits are required in all other lots on the weekends.

  • Do I have to let Transportation Services know I purchased a new vehicle?

    Yes. We have implemented license plate recognition which requires license plates to be associated with a valid permit. You can access your parking account  using your NetID login information and add the vehicle to your permit. 

  • Do I have to have a permit to charge my electric vehicle?

    Yes. Vehicles parked at UC Riverside must have a valid permit associated with their vehicle license plate at all times.

  • If I leave the university, how do I cancel my permit and will I get a refund?

    Parking permit payroll deductions are charged in arrears.  Meaning, for those who are paid monthly, the deduction on the 1st of the month is for the previous month’s parking.  For those paid bi-weekly, the parking deductions are for the previous month’s parking.  If you cancel your permit within the first 5 working days of a month,  you will be charged for the week, anything longer you will be charged for the entire month.  Refunds will only be issued for any future, unused portion of the permit. No refunds will be issued for payments/deductions received prior to the cancellation of the permit.   

  • I pay for my permit by payroll deduction. How do I cancel my permit and payroll deduction?

    If you no longer need a monthly permit, you can cancel your physical permit by cutting it in half and emailing the picture of the cut permit, along with your employee id, to parking@ucr.edu and we will cancel the permit and your payroll deduction. You can cancel your virtual permit by contacting parking@ucr.edu with your employee id and we will cancel the permit and your payroll deduction.

    As an alternative to payroll deduction, parking permits are available in daily, weekly and monthly increments via the Parkmobile  app for the following parking lots as space is available: Lot 1, Lot 5, Lot 6 Blue, Lot 7, Lot 9, Lot 13 Blue, Lot 19, Lot 24, Lot 26, Lot 30, and Lot 50.

  • What are my parking options if I do not visit the campus frequently?

    For those that visit the campus infrequently, you can choose to purchase a daily permit for the days you do come to campus. Daily, weekly and monthly parking passes are available via the Parkmobile app for the following parking lots as space is available:  Lot 1, Lot 5, Lot 6 Blue, Lot 7, Lot 9, Lot 13 Blue, Lot 24, Lot 26, Lot 30, and Lot 50.

  • Why are you still deducting my paycheck for my permit when I’m telecommuting and not coming to campus?

    If you are telecommuting and no longer need a monthly permit, you can cancel your permit by emailing parking@ucr.edu and we will cancel the permit and your payroll deduction.

    As an alternative to payroll deduction, parking permits are available in daily, weekly and monthly increments via the Parkmobile app for the following parking lots as space is available:  Lot 1, Lot 5, Lot 6 Blue, Lot 7, Lot 9, Lot 13 Blue, Lot 24, Lot 26, Lot 30, and Lot 50.  

Citations

Faculty/Staff

Visitors

  • Where can I find visitor parking?

    Visitor parking is available in various lots across the campus. Please visit our Visitor Parking webpage for more information.

  • Does UCR have free visitor parking on campus?

    You must have a valid UCR permit to park in the majority of lots on campus from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM, 7 days a week with the exception below:

    The following lots do not require a paid permit when parking starting at 12:00 PM on Fridays through 6:00 AM Monday morning, in the unreserved spaces:

    • Lot 6 Blue
    • Lot 13 Blue
    • Big Springs Parking Structure 2
    • Gold lots (26, 30, and 50)*

    *Permits are also not required when parking in Gold lots (26, 30, and 50) during weeknights from 6:00 PM – 7:00 AM Monday-Friday.

    • Assistance purchasing visitor permits may be obtained at the University Information Kiosk located on University Avenue entrance and West Campus Drive, and at the Martin Luther King Kiosk, located on Martin Luther King Blvd. and Canyon Crest Drive.
    • Daily and hourly permits are available from parking dispensers located in designated parking lots.
    • ParkMobile may also be used to pay for short-term parking in visitor parking areas on campus. Long-term visitor parking permits may be purchased online or at the Parking Services office located at 683 Linden St.
  • How can I access the inner campus?

    Inner Campus consists of the pedestrian walkways and service roadways within the gates around campus. You are required to have authorization from Transportation Services to travel by vehicle inside Inner Campus.  The campus kiosk provides one time Inner Campus access for your convenience. If you require Inner Campus access for several days, please visit or contact the Parking Services Office.  Parking Services is located on campus at 683 Linden Street.  The phone number is 951-827-1294 .

    • Inner Campus access is restricted between 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
    • We advise that you arrive as early as 7:00 AM, as there is a high demand for Inner Campus access on weekday mornings.
    • A valid UCR Parking Permit is required.  If you do not have a permit, you will be required to purchase one.
    • Inner Campus Access is generally limited to 15 minutes.  You can request a longer time allotment based on your purpose. The time limit is ultimately up to the discretion of the parking officer on duty.

Bike/Walk

  • Do I need to register my bicycle for on campus use?
    • We recommend that all bikes are registered. Transportation Services provides free registration and issues California bike licenses at no cost to enrolled students and employees.  Your bike information is stored in our database and then accessible in the event your bike is lost, stolen, recovered or impounded.
  • Where can I register my bike on campus?

    You can register your bike online by filling out our online registration form. Additional details regarding the registration process can be found at the bike registration information page.

  • My bike has a flat, where can I get it fixed?
    • UCR has several bike fix-it stations that have tools and air pumps for do-it-yourself minor repairs. 
      • Fix-it stations are located at Transportation Services, Big Springs 1 and 2 parking structures, Aberdeen-Inverness, Lothian, and the SRC.
      • Powered air pumps are located at Transportation Services, Big Springs 1 and 2 parking structures, the SRC and in Parking Lot 30.

Carpool

  • Who is eligible for a carpool permit?

    Faculty, staff and graduate students are able to purchase a carpool permit. 

    1. You must first apply for the Alternative Transportation (AT) Program as a carpooler. 
    2. Once approved, all carpool partners must come to Transportation Services in person to return their old parking permits and set-up billing for the carpool permit.  Carpool permits are sold at a discount, then the cost is split amongst the number of people in the group.  One permit is issued per carpool.
  • How can I find a carpool partner?

    Faculty, staff and grad students can register online for a free IE Commuter account to be matched with others interested in sharing a ride who live and work near you with similar hours. You may also qualify for County sponsored rideshare subsidies.  

Metrolink

  • Does Metrolink offer any student discounts?
    • Yes, Metrolink offers students a 25% discount on a regular one-way, round-trip, 7-day pass or monthly pass option.  
    • At the time of purchasing a ticket online, select the Student Fare Ticket.  You must be able to present your valid Student ID to the inspector upon request.
    • Weekend day passes don’t qualify because they are already discounted at only $10 for unlimited travel on any weekend day.

Vanpool

  • How can I find a vanpool to join?

    Go to Commute with Enterprise and click on "Join Commute". Enter your commute data (home/work address and your normal work hours). If there is a match, Commute with Enterprise staff will put you in touch with the Vanpool Coordinator. If there is no match, complete the form anyway to be added to an interest list and be notified when they find matches.

  • How much does a vanpool cost?
    • Vanpool fares vary depending on the distance traveled, number of people in the vanpool, and the type of vehicle selected. 
    • Vanpool programs are eligible for county subsidies, discounted fuel, and aren’t required to have a parking permit, so overall it’s an affordable option. 

Bus

  • What is the RTA UPASS Program?

    UCR Transportation Services has partnered with RTA to provide all students, faculty, and staff free access to local public transportation.  Several RTA routes directly connect UCR to many western Riverside County neighboring communities.

    There’s two ways to travel!

    1. Simply swipe your valid UCR ID card on board the bus, or
    2. Use RTA’s Go Mobile app to activate a pass.  First time app users must follow these instructions:
    • Download the RTA Go Mobile app on your smartphone.
    • Click “Forgot Password” and use your UCR NetID email (e.g, SCOTTY@UCR.EDU) to reset account.
    • Check your email and follow the link.
    • System will prompt you to set up new password.
    • Once logged in, system will prompt you to name your wallet.  Pass will show up in the wallet.
  • Can I ride RTA for free on weekends too?

    Yes! Use a free permit and use your mobile device on board to use RTA on weekdays, weekends, and even during holiday hours of operation.

    The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) has just released its new official GoMobile app.  RTA is currently phasing out the Token Transit app. Token Transit will not be accepted after January 15, 2023.   GoMobile is an all-in-one mobile app where you can access your UPASS, plan your trip, view bus arrival times, and get service alerts. 

    If you already have a current UPASS offered through UCR, follow these steps to access your new pass

    Register Now

    If you have not already signed up for a free bus pass, you can register online at TAPS through the Parking Portal.

  • Are employees eligible for the RTA UPASS Program?

    Yes! All students, staff and faculty can take advantage of the UPAS Program. Just swipe your R’Card on board or use RTA’s Go Mobile App.

  • Where can charter buses park?

    There is no bus parking on campus. Buses may park in designated commercial parking areas as outlined by the City of Riverside. Additional information is available on riversideca.gov.

  • I've seen FlixBus stop on campus. What service is this?

     FlixBus is an independent long-distance transit provider that has a bus stop located in parking lot 30. Their buses travel to cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix. For schedules and pricing, go to the FlixBus website or call them directly at (855) 626-8585.

General

  • Are there any car rentals available on campus?

    Zipcar is a carsharing provider on campus which offers low hourly and daily rates that include gas and insurance. 

    • Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a credit card and valid driver’s license (international licenses are accepted).  Cars are located on campus and can be reserved online or by using your mobile device. 
    • Once you apply for a membership, Zipcar will mail you a membership card.  Just tap your card on the card reader located on the windshield to unlock the car.
  • Can I ride electric scooters on campus such as Bird and Lime scooters?
    • UCR currently prohibits the use of riding electric scooters on campus sidewalks and pathways. 
    • If you are renting scooters stationed around the university, it is recommended that you drop them off outside of campus in order to avoid being cited. 
  • Are there any incentives for me to rideshare?
    • Faculty, staff and graduate students can register for UCR’s R'Commute Program to receive rideshare incentives. 
    • R'Commute members are eligible to receive an allotment of free daily parking permits. 
    • Carpoolers and vanpoolers are also eligible for a free “Guaranteed Ride Home” in case of an emergency or unexpected overtime. 
    • Transit riders that take Riverside Transit Agency get to ride for free. 
    • Walkers and Bicyclists are able to use the lockers and showers free of charge at the Student Recreation Center.

    Contact Transportation Services for further details.

  • How are all of the transportation services paid for?

    Transportation Services is an Auxiliary unit which means that it is funded solely by customer fees and fines paid by issued citations. No state, federal, or student funds are used in normal day-to-day operations of the department. Alternative transportation is funded through citation and parking permit revenue.

  • Is a front license plate required?

    Vehicles registered in California must display two license plates -- one plate on the front of the car and one plate on the back of the car.

  • Can I pull through or back into a parking space?

    You must park so that your license plate is visible from the drive aisle.

    Pulling through or backing into a parking space is not permitted in angled spaces.

  • How will service and other authorized vehicles open the gate arm and bollards?

    Transportation Services will issue access cards or unlock bollards to authorized service providers. Contact parking@ucr.edu  if you require access past these points.  For immediate need call (951) 827-4133.

  • Will more gates and bollards be installed in and around the campus?

    Yes. As the campus grows, more secured access gates may be installed to mitigate campus traffic. Bollards continue to be added throughout the campus core with access restricted to emergency vehicle use only.

  • Who is the contact for any media-related inquiries?

    The Transportation Services Director is the primary point of contact and can be reached via email.

Fleet

Events

Electric Vehicles

  • Where can I charge my electric vehicle on campus?

    Please view the Electric Vehicle web page for charging options on campus.

  • How much does it cost to charge my electric vehicle?

    Please see our Electric Vehicle web page for current pricing.

  • How do I create a ChargePoint account?
    1. You must go online to www.chargepoint.com or download the ChargePoint App. 
    2. Register for an account. 
    3. Once you have logged in to ChargePoint's system, click on the title "Connections".  At the top of the Connections screen, you will see a place to enter the Connection code.  UCR faculty, staff, and students can use connection code UCREV1 to receive the $1/hr. discount. Enter the Connection code and right click to apply. 
    4. You will be asked for your UCR employee ID or student ID number.  After you have submitted your application, Transportation Services will be notified and asked to approve the application before the discount is applied.  Requests are usually processed the next business day.

    As a reminder, ChargePoint will bill you for your usage based on the length of time your vehicle is connected to the charging station so please make sure you move your vehicle accordingly.

Motorist Assistance

Student Employment