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How to Ride the Bus
Our 'Unofficial Guide' for Beginners
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The first thing you want to do is not panic -- riding the bus is easy once you get the hang of it.
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The second thing you want to do is answer the following questions:
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- “Where do I want to go, and does a bus take me there?”
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The TMA or NJ Transit can help you with determining if a bus will get you to where you need to go and get you a schedule.
"Where do I stand?"
- Once you receive your schedule, take a look at the bus stops in relation to where you want to pick up the bus.
If you want to catch the bus somewhere BETWEEN the stops shown, these are usually considered ‘flag stops’ and you’ll have to motion
to the bus driver to stop. Typically, you won’t find a sign, bench or shelter at a flag stop. A designated bus stop will -- almost --
always have a sign.
"When is my bus departing?"
- Make sure you give yourself ample time to reach your destination, particularly
if you have a connection. On your schedule, look at your route map for connecting bus service usually indicated by a ‘T’ (for transfer point).
"How do I know which bus to get on?"
- Each bus has a destination sign and corresponding bus route number on the front of the bus.
If in doubt, ask your driver. Also, if you are a new rider, sit close to the front so you can ask your driver to let you know when your stop is.
"When should I be at the stop?"
- Always be at your bus/flag stop no less than 5 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Your watch may not be in sync with the bus driver's clock!
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Additionally, you’ll need exact change or a weekly/monthly bus pass, drivers can not give change.
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Worried about zones?
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Ask your driver. Zones are tricky, and usually determined only after you’ve familiarized yourself with the bus route.
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