Bus Cards: Who Needs Them And Why?

There are several ways to pay your fare when riding the bus. Some bus services, such as Sound Transit, encourage the use of an ORCA card, which is a quick and contact-free way to pay for your trip. You can also pay with cash, but you will need to have the exact change as bus drivers do not carry change. In some places, such as New York City, you can pay with a MetroCard, coins, or a SingleRide ticket.

Different ways to pay for a bus fare

There are several ways to pay for a bus fare, with options varying across different locations. Here are some of the most common methods:

Cash

Cash is a widely accepted form of payment for bus fares. However, it is important to carry the exact change, as bus drivers may not be able to provide change. In some cases, cash payments may also be limited to certain bus routes or operators.

Contactless Card Payments

Contactless card payments, such as debit or credit cards, are becoming increasingly popular for bus fares. These cards use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing passengers to tap their card on a reader to complete the payment. This method is often faster and more convenient than cash.

Mobile Payments

Mobile payments, or e-wallets, are another modern option for paying bus fares. Applications like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay allow passengers to store their payment card information on their smartphones or wearable devices. This enables them to make contactless payments by tapping their device on the card reader, similar to contactless card payments.

Prepaid Cards

Prepaid cards are loaded with a specific amount of money and can be used for bus fares without the need for a linked bank account. They provide flexibility and control over spending, as the cardholder can only spend the amount loaded on the card. However, there may be associated fees for purchasing and reloading these cards.

ORCA Cards (Regional Transit Cards)

In certain regions, such as King County, Washington, passengers can use regional transit cards like the ORCA card to pay for bus fares. These cards provide discounted fares and allow for easy transfers between different buses or trains within the same trip. ORCA cards can be reloaded online or at vending machines.

Other Options

In addition to the methods mentioned above, some buses may also accept payment through digital wallets like PayPal, online banking, or even cryptocurrency. However, these options may be less common and depend on the specific bus operator's payment infrastructure.

How to identify the correct bus

Identifying the correct bus is a crucial step in your journey, and there are several ways to ensure you get on the right one. Here are some tips to help you:

• Check the route numbers: Buses usually display their route numbers on the top and side. Match these numbers with the routes listed on the signs at the bus stop. This ensures you are boarding the correct bus serving that particular stop.
• Refer to timetables: Most bus stops have timetables that show the estimated arrival times for different buses along with their route information. Check these timetables to cross-reference the arrival time of your desired bus with its route number. This helps you confirm that the approaching bus is the correct one.
• Use a trip planner or app: Many transit agencies offer trip-planning tools on their websites or mobile apps. These tools allow you to input your starting point and destination to get detailed trip plans, including bus routes, stops, and fares. You can also use third-party apps like Google Maps, Bing Maps, or One Bus Away to find real-time arrival information for buses at your location.
• Look for distinctive features: Some buses may have unique features that make them stand out. For example, some buses might be double-deckers, have a specific color scheme, or be branded with the logo of a particular transit agency. If you're expecting a bus with such features, it can help confirm you're boarding the right one.
• Ask the driver: If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask the bus driver. They are usually knowledgeable about the route and can confirm if the bus is going to your intended destination. It's better to ask and be certain than to board the wrong bus.
• Pay attention to the bus stop: Bus stops often have signs listing the routes that serve that particular stop. Before the bus arrives, take a moment to review the route numbers and destinations listed at the bus stop to ensure you are at the correct location.

By following these steps, you can confidently identify the correct bus for your journey and ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Boarding the bus

When the bus arrives, check the route information displayed on the front of the bus to ensure it is the correct bus. If it is, wave to indicate to the driver that you would like to board. Stand back from the bus and wait for it to come to a complete stop. If the bus sign says "Drop-off only", this means the bus is full and you will need to wait for the next one.

If you are using a wheelchair, all MTA buses are accessible and equipped with a wheelchair lift or ramp. Let the driver know if you need assistance with boarding.

You can board the bus through the front door or, in the case of Select Bus Service (SBS) buses, through any door. Stay on the curb until the bus stops and the doors open, and be mindful of other passengers when boarding. Some buses may tilt towards the curb to allow for easier boarding.

You will need to pay your fare as you enter. The methods of payment accepted vary depending on your location and the bus company. In New York, OMNY is accepted on all buses, as well as MetroCard, coins, or a SingleRide ticket. In other areas, you may be able to pay with an ORCA card, cash, or a Transit GO Ticket. It is recommended to have your fare ready before boarding to make the process quicker.

If you are using cash, ensure you have the exact change as the driver may not be able to provide change. You can also pay with a contactless credit or debit card, smartphone, or wearable device, by tapping it at the reader near the driver.

Once you are on the bus, move towards the rear to allow other passengers to board. Keep your personal belongings on your lap, at your feet, or in the overhead luggage areas if available. Leave the seats at the front of the bus for those who need them, such as older adults, families, and people with disabilities.

Exiting the bus

When it comes to riding the bus, there are a few things you should know about exiting the bus safely and efficiently. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for doing so:

Signalling Your Intention to Exit

First, it's important to signal that you intend to get off at the next stop. On numbered bus routes, you can do this by pulling a cable or cord near the window, or by pressing a red "stop" button, usually located near seats and exits. On Swift bus lines, such as Swift Blue or Swift Green, the bus will stop at every station, so you don't need to signal the driver.

Announcements and Updates

Pay attention to announcements and displays inside the bus, which will provide information about the upcoming stops. You can also use a bus-tracking app on your smartphone to help you keep track of your location and when to get off.

Once the bus has come to a complete stop, you can exit through the rear door, if possible. If the back door doesn't open, simply say, "Back door, please," to get the driver's attention. Remember to hold on to your belongings and be mindful of other passengers when exiting.

After Exiting

It's important to wait for the bus to leave the area before crossing the street. This helps ensure your safety and avoids obstructing the bus's path. Additionally, if you need to transfer to another bus or train, keep in mind that your transfer ticket may have a time limit, so plan your journey accordingly.

Language Considerations

While the verb "exit" can be used in formal commands or announcements, such as "Please exit the bus," it may sound too formal for everyday conversation. In casual speech, it's more common to say, "I need to get off at the next stop" or "I'm getting off the bus."

Behavioural guidelines for riding the bus

Riding the bus is a great way to get around, and there are a few simple rules to follow to ensure everyone has a pleasant journey.

Firstly, it is important to plan your trip and arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early. Check the route and bus schedules, and be aware of any discounts or passes you may be eligible for. When the bus arrives, wait for it to come to a complete stop and check that it is going to your intended destination. If you need to load luggage, let the driver know, and be mindful of others boarding.

Once on the bus, follow the seating priority guidelines, with seats at the front generally reserved for those with disabilities, the elderly, and those with infants. Keep the aisle clear, and store your belongings in your lap, at your feet, or in the designated luggage areas. Be considerate of other passengers by keeping noise levels down, using headphones for music and entertainment, and refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking. It is also polite to keep phone calls short and quiet.

When it's time to get off, pay attention to the upcoming stops and give the appropriate signal to the driver. Use the rear exit if possible, and wait for the bus to leave before crossing the street. If you need to transfer to another bus or train, follow the transfer guidelines, which may include time limits and specific transfer tickets.

Finally, remember to follow any posted safety guidelines, such as emergency exit procedures, and always report any issues or problems to the driver or the relevant authorities. These guidelines help ensure a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers.

Frequently asked questions