Welcome to GoRaleigh

Before you pay your fare and take a seat, here's some information on how to ride. 

A First-Timer’s Guide to Riding the Bus

A few tips to make your first trip smooth and easy:

  • Use the GoRaleigh Trip Planner or call 919-485-RIDE(7433) to figure out which bus will take you to your destination.
  • Arrive at your stop between five to ten minutes early. Wait where the operator can see you. You can visit the City of Raleigh's Bus Shelters and Amenities Map to find out where the closest stop is. You can also use Transloc on your computer or smart phone. Don't have a stop near you? Find the nearest Park and Ride location.
  • As the bus approaches, check the sign above the front window to make sure it’s the route and destination you want. If it is, signal the operator that you wish to board.
  • Be ready with exact fare, ticket, transfer receipt, or pass. Go to our Fares and Passes page to learn more information
  • Stay back from the curb and wait until the bus comes to a complete stop. Then, get on the bus and pay your fare. GoRaleigh reserves priority seating for disabled passengers in the side seats and first rows in the front of the vehicles. Please allow disabled passengers to sit if those seats are occupied. 
  • When boarding a crowded bus, please note that GoRaleigh allows for standing passengers. If there is no standing room, please wait for the bus operator to create room. 
  • Major stops will be announced. If you are not familiar with the area, you can ask the operator to call out your destination.
  • Some buses have a monitor that will show you the approaching stops, or you can use a bus tracking app such as Transloc on your phone to keep track of when your stop is coming up.
  • 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.
  • Gather all personal items and exit through the rear door.

Suspicious Packages

If you spot an unattended package, look for the following:

  • Placement in an out-of-the-way location
  • Individuals in the act of abandoning the package and hastily departing the area
  • Unusual attached batteries or wires. Attached tanks, bottles or bags that might contain chemicals
  • An attached message
  • A suspicious cloud, mist, gas, vapor or odor. Seeping fluid
  • Nearby individuals showing signs of illness or distress

Handling Suspicious Packages

  • Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious package or envelope
  • Do not carry the package or envelope, show it to others or allow others to examine it
  • Put the package or envelope down on a stable surface; do not sniff, touch, taste, or look closely at it or at any contents which may have spilled

Other Safety Tips

  • To report an emergency or a suspicious package or behavior, tell the operator right away or call 9-1-1.
  • 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.
  • 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 para-transit service. Click here to learn more about para-transit services.