How to Ride

Please arrive at the bus stop five (5) minutes early and be prepared to show the driver your pass, ticket or exact change — and ID card, if paying a reduced fare.

To depart the bus, push the yellow strip or pull cord (located by the windows) approximately one block before your desired stop.

Smoking, food, drink, radios, tape players and pets (except guide animals) are prohibited on buses and in the Quincy Street Station.

Route Identification

All bus lines are color coded for better convenience in using the service.  TMTA has 6 lines, with each line offering 2 routes.  There are numbered destination signs on the front header of each bus, above the windshield, and on the curb side, near the front door.  Howeverr, please refer to the color for ease in moving about town. 

Locating a Bus Stop

Passengers on the fixed-route system will be allowed to board or exit a vehicle at any corner along the route. Buses will also stop at various bus benches and bus shelters along the route if there are patrons there waiting to board. For safety reasons, buses will not stop in construction or road work areas to pick up or drop off passengers. The bus can stop to allow passengers to board or exit at an intersection or major business access only if the operator deems it is safe and appropriate to do so. However, the bus will not make multiple stops in a single block.

Getting On the Bus

• Wave to get the attention of the bus operator so he/she knows you want to board.
• Stand back from the curb when the bus is approaching.
• Always board the bus through the front door.
• Alert the operator if you need to use the lift to board the bus or if you need the bus kneeled.
• Slide your ticket or cash fare (exact change only) into the fare box at the top of the steps. Show the operator your monthly pass or transfer slip. If you are riding at a reduced rate, you must show your Topeka Transit reduced fare ID card to the operator.
• Take a seat after entering and remain seated at all times.
• If you utilize a wheelchair or scooter, the operator is required to secure it prior to moving the bus.

Getting Off the Bus

• Pull the bell cord above the windows or push the yellow call strip prior to your destination stop.
• Operators are required to call stops; please report operators who are not providing this service.
• Remain seated and wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to exit.
• If you utilize a wheelchair or scooter, please do not remove the securements before the bus is stopped.
• Whenever possible, exit the bus by using the rear door allowing passengers to board through the front door.
• After you exit, stand to the side of the road or on the sidewalk until the bus has pulled away.
• For your safety, NEVER EVER cross the street in front of the bus.

Tips for Riders

• Arrive at the bus stop early. Too early is better than being late and missing the bus.
• Be patient. A bus is considered on time up to 5 minutes after the posted time.
• Have your ticket or fare ready before the bus arrives.
• Always remain behind the white Standee Line.
• Bus operators are good resources and are willing to help. If you are confused or need assistance, please ask. However, please do not engage the operator in personal conversation that will take his/her concentration off safely operating the bus.
• Businesses located near bus stops will not provide restrooms, change, or phone services to transit patrons.

Rules of the Road

Bus conduct is regulated by city and state laws, as well as Topeka Transit policies to make the ride safe and enjoyable for all passengers.

• Please give front seats to seniors, pregnant and disabled passengers.
• Children must be removed from strollers and the stroller kept out of the aisle. Car seats may be used at the parent’s discretion.
• Keep your belongings clear of the aisle and other seats. No feet on seats.
• No smoking, eating or drinking while on the bus. Food and beverages may be brought on board only if they are in spill-proof containers.
• Alcohol is not allowed. Persons under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs will be refused service.
• Listen to audio devices using headphones that limit the sound to the individual user. Please put your cell phone ringer on vibrate.
• Limit the length, volume and content of cell phone conversations so as not to disturb the operator and other passengers.
• Do not stand in prohibited areas or when open seats are available.
• Always stand behind the standee line at the front of the bus. Stay clear of doorways.
• Rollerskates or rollerblades cannot be worn or used on transit property or on the bus.
• Shirts and shoes must be worn on transit property or on the bus.
• Any article that can spill or has an offensive odor is not allowed.
• No flammable or hazardous materials allowed, including car batteries or gasoline.
• No fireworks of any kind are allowed on buses or transit property.
• Fighting, littering, spitting, unruly behavior and harassment are illegal.
• No weapons of any kind are allowed on transit property or on the bus.
• Service animals are welcome; other pets are only allowed if carried in a latched pet carrier. Animals should never be in the bus seats or aisles.
• Do not engage in inappropriate or distracting conversation with the operator while the bus is moving.

The Bus Operator always has the reasonable authority to refuse service or ask for a passenger’s justified removal.