Bus Fares: Understanding The Cost Of A Ride

The cost of riding a bus varies depending on the location and the type of bus. In New York City, the base cost of riding a Select Bus Service bus is $2.75, the same as riding the subway or the local or limited-stop bus. However, the cost of riding an express bus is $7 for most riders. Outside of New York City, the cost of riding a bus may differ, and some locations may offer alternative payment methods such as debit cards or NFC payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. It is recommended to check the website of the local transit system for specific fare information.

Payment methods: MetroCard, OMNY, coins, card, phone, or wearable device

In New York, you can pay for your bus fare using a MetroCard, OMNY, coins, card, phone, or wearable device.

OMNY is a contactless payment system for public transportation in the New York region. You can use a contactless credit or debit card, smartphone, wearable device, or OMNY card to tap and pay. OMNY cards are available at retail locations and subway stations throughout the region, and new OMNY vending machines will soon be available in all subway stations. OMNY offers benefits such as free transfers and free trips after 12 rides in a 7-day period.

MetroCards are also available for purchase from vending machines in all subway stations. These cards can be used on buses and trains, and you can add value to them or purchase unlimited ride refills.

Additionally, buses accept exact change in coins as a payment method.

Fare evasion: Proof of payment, fines, and inspectors

Fare evasion is a serious issue, and those who do not pay their fares can face hefty fines and even legal consequences. Fare evasion includes boarding a bus without paying, using a fare type for which one does not qualify (such as a child or student fare), or travelling a longer distance than what one has paid for. Not paying your fare impacts the transit system's ability to limit fare increases, deliver and maintain services.

Proof of payment is required when riding public transportation, such as buses, and this can be in various forms. In New York City, for example, riders of the Select Bus Service must pay their fares before boarding the bus at a sidewalk kiosk using a MetroCard or coin machine. They will then receive a receipt as proof of payment, which they must keep during their ride as MTA fare inspectors may request to see it at random. Similar proof-of-payment (POP) systems are in place in other cities and countries, where riders must validate their tickets or show proof of payment when requested by inspectors.

Fines for fare evasion vary by location and the frequency of the offence. In Toronto, for instance, Metrolinx has implemented a graduated fee structure, with first-time offenders fined $35, second-time offenders receiving a $50 ticket, and those with three offences facing a $100 fine. In Australia, the penalty for fare evasion is usually an instant fine of around $200, but this can vary by state, and the maximum fine can reach $550.

Fare inspectors play a crucial role in enforcing fare payment and can issue fines to those without valid proof of payment. While fare evasion fines are common, there have been concerns about the potential for profiling and bias in the issuance of these fines. To address this, some transit agencies, such as Metrolinx in Ontario, provide their employees with anti-racism and anti-bias training to ensure that fare inspections are conducted fairly and uniformly for all riders.

Transfers: How to transfer between bus routes and to/from the subway

In New York City, there are several ways to transfer between bus routes and to/from the subway, depending on how you pay your fare. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Transferring between bus routes

• Using a MetroCard: When using a MetroCard, your connecting transfer data is automatically encoded on the card. This means you can transfer to another bus or the subway by simply using your MetroCard again. Make sure to keep your receipt of payment while riding the bus.
• Using coins: If you pay with coins, you will receive a Select Bus Service receipt. To transfer to another bus or the subway, enter through the front door of the next bus and present your receipt to the bus operator. Request a transfer, which will be issued from the fare box. This transfer can be used on the subway or another bus. Remember to keep your receipt of payment during your ride.
• Using OMNY: With OMNY, you can tap your contactless card, smartphone, or wearable device at the OMNY reader when entering the bus. Transfers are applied automatically, so you can use the same card or device throughout your journey.

Transferring from bus to subway

• Using a MetroCard: When transferring from bus to subway, insert your MetroCard into the turnstile at the subway station. You don't need to worry about getting a transfer as it is automatically encoded on your MetroCard.
• Using coins: If you paid for your bus ride with coins, you will need to insert your Select Bus Service receipt into the MetroCard Fare Collector machine at the subway station to obtain a proof-of-payment receipt. This will allow you to enter the subway station and complete your transfer.
• Using OMNY: With OMNY, simply tap your contactless card, smartphone, or wearable device at the turnstile when entering the subway station. Transfers are automatic, so you can use the same device or card when transferring.

Transferring from subway to bus

• Using a MetroCard: When transferring from subway to bus, insert your MetroCard into the MetroCard Fare Collector machine at the bus stop to obtain a proof-of-payment receipt. You can then board the bus and show this receipt if requested by an MTA inspector.
• Using a subway paper transfer: If you received a paper transfer from the subway, insert it into the MetroCard Fare Collector machine at the bus stop to obtain a proof-of-payment receipt before boarding the bus.
• Using OMNY: With OMNY, just tap your contactless card, smartphone, or wearable device at the OMNY reader when boarding the bus. The transfer will be automatic as long as you use the same device or card.

Concessions: Reduced fares for seniors and those with disabilities

Concessions and Reduced Fares:

Seniors and individuals with disabilities can benefit from reduced fares on buses in many regions. These concessions are put in place to ensure equal access to public transportation for all and to encourage independent living for those who may face financial or physical challenges. The reduced fares can make a significant difference in the lives of eligible individuals, making travel more affordable and accessible.

To qualify for these concessions, individuals typically need to meet specific criteria and provide relevant documentation. For seniors, the eligibility age varies but is usually set at 60 or 65 and over. A valid ID, such as a driver's license or state-issued ID card, is often required to verify age. Some transit systems may also offer further reduced rates for low-income seniors, making transportation even more accessible and affordable for this demographic.

For those with disabilities, the criteria can vary but often include individuals with permanent or temporary physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities. Again, valid ID is usually required, and this may include specialized disability cards or certificates issued by the relevant authorities. In some cases, a personal care attendant or companion may also be eligible to travel at a reduced rate or even for free when accompanying an individual with a disability.

The process for obtaining a concession varies depending on the transit system and region. It often involves an application process, which may be done online or in person, where individuals need to provide the necessary documentation. Some systems may issue a specialized concession card, while others may simply require valid ID to be presented when purchasing tickets or passes at the reduced rate. It is always best to check with the specific transit provider to understand their exact requirements and processes.

These fare concessions are an important way to ensure that public transportation is accessible to all members of society, regardless of age or ability. By offering reduced rates, transit systems are not only providing financial relief but also promoting independence, social inclusion, and equal access to essential services and opportunities. This small adjustment in fare pricing can make a significant difference in the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities, enabling them to maintain their mobility and actively participate in their communities.

Planning a trip: Finding schedules, routes, and real-time service information

When planning a bus trip, it's important to be able to find schedules, routes, and real-time service information. Luckily, there are a variety of tools available to help you plan your journey. Many bus services now offer online trip planners, which allow you to input your starting point and destination, and will then provide you with the best route, estimated journey time, and any transfers involved. You can also use these trip planners to view real-time departure times and receive transit alerts.

Additionally, many bus services provide online tools to help you track your bus in real-time, so you can see where your bus is currently located and estimate arrival times. Some services also offer the option to receive alerts and notifications for your favourite routes, so you can stay up-to-date on any delays or disruptions.

To find specific route schedules, you can usually search by transit mode, route number, name, or stop. Bus schedules are often grouped by region, so you can easily find the information relevant to your area. It's also common for bus services to provide system maps, which can help you identify all the service routes, transfer points, and major points of interest.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, many bus services still offer printed schedules and route maps, which you can use to plan your trip. These can usually be found online or at transit centres. For real-time information, you can also call many bus services and use their interactive voice recognition systems to get up-to-date schedule information over the phone.

Lastly, you can also use third-party apps and websites, such as Google Maps, to plan your bus trip. These tools often provide real-time information on bus schedules and departures, and can be a convenient way to plan your journey, especially if you're travelling in an unfamiliar area.

Frequently asked questions