Taking the Bus: Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you become familiar with using public transit.
1. The departure
Get to the bus stop 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. The time the next two buses will pass by the stop is available through INFOBUS, the telephone information service.
At the stop when the bus arrives
2. The trip
Getting on the bus
- Watch your step and use the rail for support if necessary.
- Pay your fare with:
A Multi pass: Hold your Multi pass in front of the reader to get the green light. Then show the driver the photo side of the Multi pass.
Bus tickets: Drop your bus ticket in the fare box at the front of the bus near the driver.
Cash: Drop the exact fare in the fare box at the front of the bus near the driver.
Paying your fare with cash or a bus ticket entitles you to a transfer. The transfer is valid for another trip within the validity period shown. Simply request one from the driver when you board the bus.
3. Go to the back of the bus.
On the bus
If you are a rider with reduced mobility, pregnant, or a person with a non-visible disability, the courtesy seats are reserved for you.
If you must stand, hold the handrail, straps or grab bars located along the aisle of the bus.
Sit or stand so that you can clearly see outside to identify the stop at your destination.
The Rider Etiquette page lists a few good habits to follow on the bus.
Announcement of accessible stops in the bus
Every STO bus announces upcoming accessible stops on speakers and on digital boards so you can prepare to disembark comfortably.
3. The arrival
Getting off the bus
At an appropriate distance from the stop, you have three ways of letting the driver know you wish to get off.