New to the bus? Start here.

How do I plan a trip on the bus?

There are several options:

  • First-time riding the bus? The How to Ride page provides general riding tips — and try the Google Trip Planner, which lets you type in an origin and destination and see which routes it suggests.
  • Repeat rider? If you’re a routine rider or are more familiar with the system, you might find the Routes and Times information online or in the printed Transit Guide more helpful.
  • Need a bigger picture? Look at the overall System Map first to see which routes serve the places you’re traveling to and from. Then look at the individual maps for more detail and to check the schedules.
  • Want real-time information? We have a mobile app called My Bus Lawrence that makes it easy to tell when the next bus is coming. Another option is to send a text message and receive upcoming arrival times. Check out the Mobile Tools page for more.
  • Need assistance? You may call the customer service line at (785) 864-4644. Or ask any bus driver – they are there to help!

What is a timing point?

A timing point is a location along the route that is assigned a time in the bus schedule. Since we cannot provide detailed times for every stop along the route, the timing points provide an estimate of when the bus will be at a certain location. You should always use the timing point preceding your location to decide when to wait for the bus.

How do I transfer from one bus to another?

Request a transfer when you pay your initial fare, if your one-way trip requires the use of two or more routes. You will receive a transfer slip to give to the next driver when you change buses. It is important to mention which route you’re transferring to, because it will enable the driver to notify the other bus that a passenger is on the way.

What if I’m not a student, but I’d like to ride a KU bus?

All fixed-route buses are open to the public. Pay the same fare you would on a T bus, or show your bus pass. Be aware that KU buses operate on a different schedule than T buses, according to the school calendar. You can look at the service calendar to check if a KU bus is operating on the day you want to travel.

What is the service calendar?

The service calendar illustrates which routes operate on which days of the year. City buses operate Monday through Saturday, with a few exceptions for holidays. University bus schedules change according to the school calendar. For example, most KU buses do not operate during summer and other class breaks.