1. Plan your trip.
   A SamTrans Customer Service Representative can help plan your trip or answer questions about the SamTrans system. The center is open every day. Call 1-800-660-4287.
   
   Bus schedules and system maps are available at SamTrans headquarters or at ticket vendors.
   
   
2. Wait for the bus.
   It is best to be at the bus stop a few minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Check the bus stop sign to be sure that the bus serves the stop and that it is traveling in the direction you want to go.
   
   
3. Board the bus.
   Before getting on the bus, verify the route number by checking the sign on the front or side of the bus. Let passengers get off the bus before you board.
   
   To make boarding easier, all SamTrans buses can be lowered. They also are equipped with lifts or ramps for people who have trouble climbing stairs or use a wheelchair.
   
   
4. Pay your fare.
   
   Bus operators cannot make change, so use exact change to pay your fare. You also can use tokens or a monthly pass, which are sold at a discount compared to the one-way fare.
   
   
5. Take a seat.
   The seats nearest the driver are designated for seniors or people with disabilities. If you choose to sit in them, be prepared to move if someone who needs them boards the bus. For safety, always remain seated or hold onto the stanchion when the bus is moving.
   
   
6. Get off the bus.
   
   Pull the yellow cord above the window or push the vertical strip on the side of the window to signal the bus operator that you want to get off at the next bus stop. Major intersections and transfer locations are automatically announced. You also can ask the bus operator to call out your stop.

To use a timetable, locate a time point (C in this example) on the map near the point where you want to board the bus. Find the same time point on the timetable. The bus serves the bus stop at the times listed under the time point.

There are many bus stops on every SamTrans route, but due to space limitations, timetables can only list time points. Call the Customer Service Center to ask about other bus stops that may be more convenient for you.

SamTrans also publishes a system map showing the routes in the system.

You can pick up a system map and timetables for free onboard buses, at SamTrans headquarters, 1250 San Carlos Ave. in San Carlos or at pass sales outlets.

SamTrans bus schedules are color-coded.
• green - express route
• orange - local service
• blue - connects to BART
• red - connects to Caltrain
• blue and • red - connects to BART and Caltrain