How to ride

Learn more about GRT's trip planning tools.

Watch a video about how to ride GRT

Before you leave, remember to check what you can bring on the bus.

Finding your bus stop

All GRT bus stops have stop markers with the 4-digit stop number. Orange markers indicate local bus routes; routes with green markers are served by an express route.

You should plan to be at your stop at 3-5 minutes before your bus is scheduled to depart.

Boarding the bus

When you see the bus approaching, check the destination sign above the windshield to make sure it's the bus you want. Let the driver know you want to board the bus by standing close to the curb next to the bus stop marker. As the bus comes to a stop and the doors open, it will announce the route number, name and the final destination of the trip.

GRT buses only pick up customers at bus stops. Be safe when riding transit; don’t walk into traffic or try to flag down the bus in the middle of the street. 

Paying your fare

You can pay your fare with cash, a ticket/transfer, or an EasyGO fare card. Learn how to pay your fare on the bus.

Riding the bus

Stand behind the yellow line at the front of the bus, and do not block the rear doorways. Keep your bags and belongings on your lap so that seats are free for other riders. When standing, hold onto the poles, handrails on seats or overhead straps.

Getting off at your stop

All GRT buses have automated stop announcements. Listen for your stop to be announced. When your stop is announced, signal that you want to get off the bus by pulling the yellow cord that runs along the windows or pressing the red "Stop" button along the centre aisle. The "Stop Requested" sign at the front of the bus will light up. Gather your things so you're ready to exit the bus when it stops.

When the bus stops, exit through the rear door of the bus whenever possible. The rear doors have a yellow strip that says "Touch here to open doors" or a sticker with a picture of a hand. Wait for the green light to come on, then touch the yellow strip, or hold your hand in front of the sticker for at least two seconds.

Watch a video about how to ride GRT

Paying your fare

When riding ION light rail, pay your fare before your board and keep your proof of payment with you. Fare inspectors may ask to see your proof of payment.

Learn how to pay your fare on the train

Boarding the train

• Wait behind the yellow platform edge for the train to come to a complete stop. The train doors will line up with the black sections of the platform edge when the train stops.
• Stand back and wait for other riders to exit before boarding.
• Mind the gap between the station platform and the train.
• To open the doors, press the red button on the door when the light turns green.
• Allow riders with mobility devices to board first. Riders with mobility devices, bikes, strollers, service animals or other large items should board through the two middle doors.
• Don’t hold the train doors open. Preventing the train from leaving by holding the doors open may result in a fine.

Riding the train

• Once you’ve boarded, move away from the doors to make room for other people. Ensure the aisles are clear.
• If you’re standing, hold on to a bar or strap while the train is moving.
• Don’t lean against the bellows in the articulated section of the train.
• Each upcoming station will be announced and shown on the passenger displays. The train will stop at each station, so no need to signal your stop.

Remember – everyone deserves to ride with respect.

View the full rules for riding

Exiting the train

• Wait until the train comes to a stop, and then make your way to the closest door.
• If the doors don't open automatically, press the red button when the lights turn green.
• Use marked crosswalks to exit the station.

Accessibility and priority seating

Priority seating is located by the double doors. One area has a pair of padded back rests, the other has a pair of seats that flip down. There are no restraints for mobility devices. To use the priority seating area:

• Position your device parallel to the windows inside the blue box.
• Ensure wheels are clear of the circular line on the floor between train cars.
• Lock your wheels

Other passengers, including those with bicycles, are required to move from these seats for anyone with a disability or mobility challenge.

If you need more time when exiting the train, press the blue "Accessible stop request" button in the middle of the priority seating area. The doors will remain open longer so you can exit the train safely.

Cycling and ION

You can combine your ION journey with cycling. Learn more about bringing your bicycle on board the train

Please remember that personal vehicles cannot be ridden on ION station platforms. Please walk and/or carry your personal vehicle.

Learn more about GRT's travel training program.