Follow these simple steps and you will get where you are going easily, conveniently and safely.

We can help you plan your trip.  Find out what bus you need to take by checking the routes on this site or by calling CARTA’s Information Line at 423-629-1473 (TDD 423-624-4534), Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.  Tell the operator where you are & where you want to go.  The operator will give you complete instructions.  CARTA schedules are available at many of the local banks, shopping malls, social service agencies, hospitals, colleges, universities, the downtown post office, libraries and through CARTA.

Wait for the bus at the bus stop. CARTA stops are identified by red, white and blue bus stop signs.

CARTA bus drivers try very hard to stay right on schedule, so get to your stop a few minutes early to make sure you don¹t miss the bus.

Check to make sure you’re getting on the right bus. Each CARTA bus shows its destination and route number on signs above the front windshield and on the curb side of the bus.

Enter the bus through the front door and pay your fare in the electronic fare box located at the top of the stairs.  You need to have the exact change.  Neither CARTA bus drivers or the electronic fare box make change.  The farebox will take all coins and $1.00, $5.00, $10.00 and $20.00 bills.

You can save yourself the trouble of carrying correct change by purchasing a 24 Hour Unlimited Ride Pass or a 31 Day Unlimited Ride Pass.  The 31 Day Unlimited Ride Pass is available at downtown branches of 1st Tennessee, Regions, and 1st Volunteer Banks, as well as America's Cash Mart at 736 Broad Street and the CARTA administrative office located at 1617 Wilcox Boulevard.  The 24 Hour Unlimited Ride Pass may be purchased from your bus driver.  Exact change only, please.  Both the 31 Day Unlimited Ride Pass and the 24 Hour Unlimited Ride Pass can be re-charged on the bus.  For more information about the passes, please click on Bus Fares & Passes.

When you get close to your destination, pull the yellow cord or press the yellow tape above your head or between the windows.  This lets the driver know you want to get off at the next stop.  Remember that bus drivers can only stop at designated bus stops and where it is safe.

If there’s anything we may do to help you, please let us know.

Thanks for riding CARTA!

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