How To Ride
Ready to become a confident rider? Browse the resources below to learn the differences between our transit services, how to ride the bus, and the current route schedules.
Your Guide to Public Transit
Tucson’s regional transit system includes Sun Tran, Sun Express, Sun Link, Sun Van, Sun On Demand, and Sun Shuttle.
Sun Tran
Sun Tran operates 26 fixed routes across Tucson, South Tucson, Tohono O’Odham Nation, Pascua Yaqui Tribe, and Pima County, with 8 routes providing service 20 minutes or less.
Sun Express
Sun Express is a fast commuter service that makes limited stops between outlying areas and major destinations. With 9 routes, Sun Express operates Monday to Friday during peak commute hours.
Sun Link
The all-electric Sun Link streetcar runs 3.9 miles with 23 stops serving Mercado San Agustin, Downtown Tucson, Fourth Avenue, Main Gate Square, and the University of Arizona.
Sun Van
Sun Van provides paratransit services to individuals who, because of their disability, are unable to ride Sun Tran. Riders must be eligible to ride.
Sun On Demand
Sun On Demand offers shared curb-to-curb rides within designated zones, connecting to Sun Tran and Sun Link.
Sun Shuttle
Sun Shuttle serves neighborhoods like Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita, Green Valley, Tucson Estates, and Ajo-Tucson. Dial-a-Ride service is available to all residents in Oro Valley and Green Valley. Specialized service for people with disabilities in Pima County and the Town of Oro Valley is available.
What to know before you go
Before You Board
Below are a few things you should know before you board:
- Arrive at your stop 5 minutes early and stand where the driver can see you.
- Check the bus’s headsign to confirm that it is going to your desired destination.
- Stand back until the bus comes to a complete stop. If you have a bicycle, let the driver know.
- Ask the driver if you need the bus to kneel or deploy the ramp.
Rules for Riding
We are excited you are riding with us! While on board, please remember to be respectful of the ride and riders.
- Shirts, pants, and shoes are required to board.
- No smoking/vaping on board or within 20 feet of the bus.
- Use headphones for music, and keep conversations at a reasonable level.
- No eating, open drinks, or alcoholic beverages on board.
- No pushing, fighting, or throwing objects.
- Offensive language and behavior are not allowed.
- Keep one seat per rider and bags on your lap.
- Service animals are allowed; all others must be in enclosed carriers.
To learn more about Rider Rules, visit our Ride with Respect Code of Conduct page.
Exiting the Bus
Thank you for riding with us. While you get to your stop, remember the following:
- Listen for stop announcements and ask the operator if needed.
- Signal your stop using the bell tape or cord.
- Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
- Exit from the rear door.
- If you have a bicycle on the rack, let your driver know and exit from the front.
- Gather all personal items. Call Lost & Found for lost items.
How to Ride
Accessibility
Sun Tran is committed to providing safe, reliable, and accessible public transportation for all riders. All transit vehicles, including buses, streetcars, and vans, are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Visit our Accessibility page to learn more about accessibility features, services, and resources available to help make your ride easier and more comfortable.
Bike & Ride
Tucson is one of the premier bicycling cities in the country due to our abundance of good weather and hundreds of miles of dedicated bike paths. Plus, cycling offers numerous health and environmental benefits associated with bicycling. That’s why Sun Tran developed the Bike & Ride program. Riding your bike in combination with public transit can be a great way to get around, but it’s important to stay safe and prepared. Visit the Bike & Ride page for safety tips, resources, and bicycle-friendly events.
Fares
Sun Tran, Sun Link, Sun Van, Sun On Demand, Sun Express and Sun Shuttle rides continue to remain fare-free at the direction of the Mayor and Council. Visit the Fares page for any fare updates.
Kids & Teens
Sun Tran helps kids and teens travel safely and independently throughout the community. From getting to school to exploring Tucson, young riders can take advantage of educational resources, trip-planning tools, and youth safety programs. Visit the Kids & Teens page to learn more about riding Sun Tran and the resources available for young riders.
Learn to Ride Programs
Learn to Ride programs are designed to help riders build confidence and independence when using public transportation. Whether you’re a first-time rider or looking to improve your transit skills, these programs provide helpful guidance on navigating the transit system safely and comfortably. Visit the Learn to Ride page to explore available resources and training opportunities.
Park & Ride Stations
Park & Ride stations make it easy and convenient to connect to public transportation. Riders can park their vehicles at designated locations and continue their journey using Sun Tran services, helping reduce traffic congestion and simplify their commute. Visit the Park & Ride stations page to explore station locations and available transit connections.
Ride Guide & Booklets
Find everything you need to plan your next trip with the Ride Guide & Booklets page. Access schedules, route information, and maps for Sun Tran, Sun Link, Sun On Demand, Sun Van, and Sun Shuttle services. Explore available resources for you and make navigating the transit system easier.
Ride with Respect
Riding Sun Tran is a shared experience, and everyone plays a role in keeping our transit system safe, welcoming, and respectful. Ride with Respect reminds riders to be considerate of operators, fellow passengers, and the transit environment by following rider expectations, staying aware of their surroundings, and helping keep themselves and others safe. Visit Ride with Respect for expectations while riding, what’s allowed/not allowed on buses, smoking policy, and safety and security.
Sun Tran App
Making public transit easier with the new Sun Tran app! Plan your trip, track your ride, get step-by-step directions while staying connected on the go. Visit the Sun Tran app page to learn more about how to get started and the app’s features.
Seniors
Sun Tran is committed to helping older adults travel safely, comfortably, and independently throughout the community. Explore helpful resources, transportation options, and programs designed to make public transit simpler for seniors. Visit the Seniors page to learn more about available services and resources to help stay connected and on the move.
Safety & Security
Sun Tran, Sun Link, and Sun Van are here to ensure our riders arrive safely at their destination as well as provide excellent customer service. Visit the Safety and Security page to learn how Sun Tran is implementing safety and security measures across the transit system.
Transit Centers & Bus Stops
Transit centers and bus stops keep our community connected, offering convenient, accessible places to board the bus. Our three transit centers serve as key hubs; meanwhile, more than 2,200 bus stops are placed throughout the City of Tucson, unincorporated Pima County, Oro Valley, Marana, South Tucson, and Pascua Yaqui. Visit the Transit Center and Bus Stops page for transit center maps, bus stop information, and how to keep our facilities clean.