How to Ride the Bus

Riding the bus is easy. Follow these tips to make your trip a breeze.

Rider guide

First time riding the bus?

  • Get to your stop five to 10 minutes early and wait where the operator can see you.
  • As the bus approaches, check the sign above the front window to make sure it’s the route and destination you want.
  • Signal the operator that you wish to board.
  • Be ready with exact fare, ticket, transfer receipt or pass.
  • Stay back from the curb and wait until the bus comes to a full stop before boarding and paying your fare. Learn how to pay your fare.
  • Disabled passengers have priority seating in the side seats and first rows in the front of buses, so please allow them priority in those seats.
  • If the bus is crowded, GoTriangle allows passengers to stand. If there appears to be no standing room, please wait for the bus operator to create room.
  • Major stops are announced. If you’re new to the area, just ask the operator to call out your destination.
  • About a block before you want to get off, push the black or yellow plastic strip or pull the cord above your head to request the next stop.
  • Exit through the rear door.

Plan your trip

  • Trip Planner — Choose the transit button and map your route
  • UMO or MyRide —Choose the best option for you. 
  • Maps & Schedules — Locate maps, schedules and more 
  • Brochures — Pick up route brochures at area transit centers or request copies by calling 919-485-RIDE (7433)

Sign Up for Rider Alerts

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) services

All Triangle bus systems are ADA-accessible. If you have a disability that prevents you from using the fixed-route buses, you may be eligible for ADA complementary paratransit service. Learn more about paratransit services.

Holding a bus due to an operational delay

If an operational delay may cause you to miss your next bus, the bus operator may be able to contact a dispatcher to hold your transfer bus. However, contacting the dispatcher is up to the bus operator's discretion, and buses will be held only due to operational delays.

Safety tips

  • Browse our Rules of Conduct to understand how GoTriangle promotes our riders’ safety and comfort.
  • To report an emergency or a suspicious package or behavior, tell the operator right away or call 911. (Never touch, smell, taste, examine or move a suspicious package or its contents. Do not show the package to other passengers.)
  • Riding at night? Wear light-colored clothing and carry a reflector or flashlight so the operator can see you.
  • Never cross in front of a bus unless it is stopped at a red light.