How do I know when and where to catch CARTA?
First, check out the Bus Service section of this Web site, or call the CARTA Information Line at 423-629-1473 (TDD 423-624-4534) between 6:00 a.m. & 8:00 p.m, Monday - Saturday.  A Customer Service Representative is available to answer your questions about where and when to catch the bus. If you prefer, CARTA will mail you the route and schedule information you need.  Bus schedules may also be obtained at participating banks, credit unions, libraries, EPB downtown, malls and many service agencies as well as on the buses. Bus stops are marked wih red, white and blue bus stop signs.  CARTA drivers try very hard to be on time.  Get to your bus stop a few minutes early to make sure you catch your bus.  CARTA sets its clocks to SunTrust Bank time. Call 423-265-1411 for a time check.  

How do I know I am getting on the correct bus?
The route number and name appear on signs above the front window & on the curb side of each bus. These signs identify the route on which the bus is operating. If you're not sure, ask the bus driver.

How much does it cost to ride CARTA? 
CARTA's 31 Day Unlimited Ride Pass provides the bearer with unlimited rides for 31 consecutive days from day of activation and is available for $50.00.  The 24 Hour Unlimited Ride Pass provides the bearer with unlimited rides for 24 hours for $4.00; $2.00 for eligible persons. For adults, the cash fare is $1.50 each way.  Seniors, students and persons with disabilities can ride CARTA for 75¢ each way with proper identification; CARTA Special Fare ID card for senior citizens age 65 and older, and the CARTA Student Bye Pass card for students in grades 6-12.  Children ages 5 & under ride free with a paying passenger.

Do I need cash or can I buy passes to ride CARTA?
The fare boxes accept dollar bills no larger than $20.00 and any denomination of coins.  31 Day Unlimited Ride Passes are available at participating banks in the Downtown area and at the CARTA administrative office located at 1617 Wilcox Boulevard.  The 24 Hour Unlimited Ride Passes can be purchased from the bus drivers for $6.00.

Where does the fare go?
Enter the front door and place exact fare (drivers cannot make change) in the fare box at the top of the steps. Just slide your cash fare into the fare box or tap the fare box with your unlimited ride pass.

Where should I sit?
Observe priority seating in the front of the bus for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. For safety's sake, babies and young children must be removed from strollers and held securely.  It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure that strollers are folded and securely placed out of the aisle.

How do I signal the driver I want to get off the bus?
When you get close to your destination, press the yellow tape or pull the yellow cord above your head or between the windows.  This lets the driver know you want to get off at the next bus stop. Remember that bus drivers can only stop at designated bus stops and where it is safe.  Also, after getting off the bus please wait until traffic has cleared before crossing the street.

What if I lost something on the bus?
Call the CARTA Information Line at 423-629-1473 (TDD 423-624-4534) between 6:00 a.m. & 8:00 p.m., Monday - Saturday, and we will attempt to locate your item. All items found may be picked up at CARTA, 1617 Wilcox Boulevard. Found items are kept for 30 days.

Are CARTA buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, CARTA is 100% wheelchair accessible.