Below is information on how to read a bus schedule, board the bus, rider tips, and more. We also have a free Travel Training program for people who would like one-on-one assistance getting going on the bus.

Reading the schedule

Look at the map and determine:

1. Which timepoint is nearest where you want to catch the bus;
2. Where you want to go; and
3. The direction you will travel.

Then:

1. Select the schedule that corresponds with the day and direction you will travel;
2. Find your timepoint to use as a guide. If you are boarding between two timepoints, use the earlier timepoint;
3. Look down the column to find the time you want to leave, then read across to the right to find the time the bus will arrive at your destination.

Our Transit Trip Planner will design your trip for you.

Finding Your Stop

Refer to Maps and Schedules to determine your route and departure time. Then go the nearest Intercity Transit bus stop, arriving about five minutes before your bus is due. Please have your cash or pass in hand.

Boarding the Bus

Have your pass or cash fare ready when the bus arrives.

• As the bus approaches, signal the driver by waving.
• Let other passengers get off the bus before you board.
• Allow passengers using the wheelchair lift to board first. If you're using the lift, wait at least five feet from the door so the driver has room to lower the lift safely. More on using the lift.
• Use caution when entering or leaving the bus.
• Please allow elderly and disabled riders to sit in the front seats.

Paying the fare

• Cash: Place your exact cash fare in the farebox when you board. (Drivers cannot make change or accept checks.)
• Passes: Show your pass to the driver. If you wish to buy a daily pass, ask the driver for one as you board.
• Tickets: Place tickets in the farebox. Daily tickets will be exchanged for a daily pass for all-day use.

More on fares

How do I Know When to Get Off the Bus?

Buses have an automated system that makes audio and visual announcements approaching stops. The visual announcements are near the ceiling of the bus in the front.

Once your stop is announced, signal the driver by pulling the yellow cord or pressing the yellow strip.

Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. Exit quickly through the rear door to allow room for boarding passengers.

Step away from the bus and wait until it leaves before crossing the street. NEVER CROSS IN FRONT OF THE BUS - APPROACHING MOTORISTS MAY NOT SEE YOU. Traffic doesn't stop for Intercity Transit buses as it does for school buses. Once you exit, wait until the bus pulls away before crossing the street.

Rider Tips

If you want to get off at a particular stop and aren't sure where it is, feel free to tell the driver. Drivers can usually answer your questions and watch for your stop.

Contact Customer Service at
360-786-1881
or e-mail
customerservice@intercitytransit.com for help planning your trip. Tell us where you are leaving from, where you want to go and what time you want to be there, and we will prepare a custom trip plan for you.

Customer Service is open from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends.

How do I Make a Transfer?

Locate the nearest timepoint or Transfer Center. You must present a valid daily pass to the driver or pay the fare each time you transfer. Transfer Centers are at these locations:

• The Olympia Transit Center in downtown Olympia
• The Lacey Transit Center, corner of 6th Avenue and Golf Club Place in Lacey
• Tumwater Square in Tumwater
• Westfield Shoppingtown Capital Mall
• Lacey Corporate Center

Rules for Riding the Bus

Riders must observe these rules of conduct at transit centers, bus stops and on buses. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

• Refusing to pay the proper fare,
• Boarding without wearing a shirt and shoes,
• Harassing drivers,
• Disturbing other riders with loud, harmful or harassing behavior,
• Using profanity,
• Littering,
• Eating on the bus,
• Drinking except from a covered container,
• Using tobacco,
• Putting feet on the seats,
• Defacing or damaging property,
• Playing music that can be heard by others,
• Sleeping, lying down, or occupying more than one seat,
• Carrying a firearm on a bus in a way that warrants alarm,
• Carrying car batteries, flammable, explosive, or dangerous materials, and
• Violating federal state, or municipal laws.