The first step in planning your trip is to decide the starting point, where you want to go, and what day and time you want to travel.
Once you have determined the route(s) you need, follow these simple steps to plan your trip:
On the route map, locate the beginning and ending point of your bus trip.
Locate the time point closest to your beginning and ending bus trip location. Time points are indicated on the route maps by a number inside a square.
NOTE: Each time point on the route map has a corresponding column on the timetable. Not all bus stops are indicated on the map and there are many bus stops between each time point.
Find the column on the correct timetable that corresponds with your selected time point. Be sure you are using the timetable for the correct day of the week and direction of travel. Read down the column below the time point to find the time closest to your desired departure. Time for stops between time points can be estimated by adding the amount of time it will take the bus to get from the previous time point to your stop.
In most instances, one route can serve your trip needs. On occasion, you may need to take more than one route to get to your destination. If you’re having trouble planning your trip, please call the TARTA Information Line at (419) 243-7433.
How Do I Know Which Bus I Need?
Look at the system map, and the find potential routes near your starting point and destination.
Bus routes are identified by number and name. Each bus route has a published schedule showing a detailed map and times of service.
If the route numbers for your starting point and destination are the same, you have a direct route on one bus. If the numbers are not the same, you will have to transfer to another bus to complete your trip.
Get the bus schedules you need to find specific route information.
Call TARTA’s Information line at 419-243-7433
How to Read a Bus Schedule
When reading a bus schedule, know where you want to go and what time you want to get there.
Make sure you have the correct schedule for your destination and starting point. You may have to transfer from one bus to another if there is no direct route to your destination.
Look for the day of the week on which you want to travel. Some routes operate Monday through Friday. Saturday & Sunday service is available on most routes.
Determine your direction of travel. Example: Inbound to Downtown, Outbound away from downtown
Find your destination on the schedule and look across the row, reading left to right like a book to find the time you wish to arrive.
Find your starting point on the schedule. Work backwards from your destination to your starting point to figure out when you need to catch the bus.
Important! The times listed on the bus schedules are departing times- it is a good idea to arrive at the bus stop at least 5 minutes early.
To view all the TARTA fixed-route bus schedules, visit our schedules page at: tarta.com/routes
At The Bus Stop
Arrive at your bus stop at least 5 minutes before the bus is due to pick you up.
When the bus comes, be sure the sign on the bus matches the route you want.
As the bus approaches, signal your intent to ride. Wave a lighted device or mirror during early morning and night travel.
Wait for others to exit, then board via the front door.
Rules on the Bus
For your safety, and as a courtesy to other riders, please…
When boarding, be prepared to pay your fare or show your pass.
When requested by your Driver, allow riders with disabilities or special needs to sit in the designated priority seating.
Be sure food and drinks are in closed containers.
Don’t use speaker phone and please use headphones when listening to audio devices.
Keep conversations to an acceptable volume and be sensitive to words that may be offensive to others.
Don’t use any tobacco products or vapors.
Wear proper attire and shoes.
Remain in your seat while the bus is in motion.
Strollers and other wheeled objects must be folded.
Bring on board only what you can keep on or under your seat.
Keep the aisles clear.
Take up only one seat, and keep the seats clean for other riders.
Do not litter TARTA vehicles or bus stops.
All riders with service animals should adhere to ADA policies. All non-service animals should be caged.
Keep conversations with your Operator to a minimum – they need to focus on driving.
Transfers
You may have to transfer from one bus to another if there is no direct route to your destination.
These transfers are available free to TARTA riders to change from one TARTA bus route to another. If you need a transfer, please ask your Diver when you board your first bus. You will pay your fare and be given a transfer coupon. This transfer coupon will be used to pay your fare when you board your connecting bus. Transfers are only valid on the date the transfer is issued, for up to two hours from the time it is issued.
Passengers can use a transfer to change from one TARTA route to another, but a passenger may not use a transfer to pay for a return trip.
How Do I Exit The Bus?
Watch for your bus stop.
Listen for any driver instructions.
Pull the yellow cord or push the yellow touch strip to alert the driver you want to get off.
Exit via the rear doors unless instructed differently by the driver.
For your safety: Let the bus drive off then cross the street. Vehicles may attempt to pass the bus and not see you crossing the roadway. Please cross behind the bus.
Helpful Tips:
For safety reasons, TARTA buses cannot stop at locations under construction or non-designated bus stops.
Be Visible! As the bus approaches, signal your intent to ride. Wave a lighted device or mirror during early morning and night travel.
