Bus Basics - Gold Coast Transit District

Waiting For The Bus

Bus stops are identified with a Gold Coast Transit District bus stop sign. Listed on the sign are the routes serving the stop. Buses only stop at designated stops.
Be at the stop at least 5 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
Stand near the sign, bench or bus shelter so that the driver can see you.
Wave to the driver so that he or she knows to stop. Be sure to stand safely in open view, but do not stand in the street.
If the approaching bus is not the one you want and you're the only one at the bus stop, shake your head to signal the driver to keep going.

Have your fare or transfer ready before the bus arrives.
Use cash, valid passes or tokens. Please have exact fare - drivers do not make change. Cash overages are paid for in flexbox credit slips.
Make sure to have proper identification ready if necessary:
- Free Rides: College Students with valid ID. Passengers aged 75 and over are free with proof of age.
- Seniors: proof of age (65+)
- Disabled: Medicare card, GCT Disability ID card or ADA card

Make sure to tell the bus driver if you need assistance (such as needing the bus lowered or using the wheelchair ramp). This service is available upon request to all passengers.
The route number and destination of each bus is displayed on a head sign above the windshield. Before boarding the bus, make sure it is the bus you wish to take. If you are unsure, ask the bus operator to assist you.
Please have your bus fare, pass or transfer ready before boarding. Also, passengers using a discount fare are required to present acceptable proof of eligibility upon boarding.
If your trip requires the use of more than one bus to reach your destination, ask the driver for a free limited-time transfer slip when you pay your fare. If you are using a 31-day pass or day pass you will not need a transfer slip.
After paying your fare, move promptly to a vacant seat.
Please note that seniors and persons with disabilities have priority for the seats directly behind the driver.
If seats are not available, move towards the rear of the bus and hold on to the grab rails.

Be courteous to other passengers. Refrain from loud or unruly behavior.
Do not block the free movement of another person.
Boards, blades and skates must be carried on the bus, not ridden or worn. Learn more about riding with a bike, or other mobility devices.
Shopping carts or strollers must be folded and stowed safely away from the aisles.
Service animals must be on a leash or harness at all times and may sit on the floor out of the aisle. Service animals under fifteen pounds may be held in the passengers lap, but may not occupy a separate seat.
Please do not talk to the driver while the bus is moving.
Do not smoke, eat, drink or spit while on the bus.
No open containers. Coffee in soft cardboard cups and soda cups are not allowed. Drinks must be in screw top bottles.
Use earphones when using any device that makes sound.
It's illegal to bring explosives, acid, flammable liquid, and toxic/hazardous materials on the bus.
Failure to pay the correct fare and misuse of transfers, passes or tickets is illegal under CA Penal Code 640, which provides for a fine of up to $250.
Please throw away your trash.
Shirts and shoes must be worn on the bus.

If you are unsure of where to get off the bus, ask your bus operator to call out the desired stop as the bus approaches it.
About a block before your stop, pull the stop request cord or push the touch strip to signal the driver that you want to get off at the next stop. Please be sure the driver has enough time to make a safe stop.
Please exit from the rear door.
Hold the door handle as you exit the bus.
All buses have a yellow touch strip located on the back door – touch the yellow strip to activate the doors.
After you exit, stand to the side of the road or on the sidewalk until the bus has pulled away.
For your safety, do not cross in front of the bus and obey all traffic signals.