Frequently Asked Questions — How to Ride METRO

The regular fare to board is $1.25

The discounted fare is 60 cents.

The following passengers ride free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

You can pay your local bus fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card
• Cash

The All About Fares page has information on where you can obtain various fare cards.

If you pay your fare using a METRO Q® Fare Card, METRO Q Mobile Ticket, METRO Day Pass or METRO Money card, you’re entitled to free transfers between any of these METRO services for up to three hours in any direction:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

For transfers to Park & Ride bus service, you only pay the fare difference for up to three hours in any direction.

If you wish to pay with a mobile ticket and plan to ride or transfer to a Park & Ride bus during your trip, you'll need to purchase and activate a Park & Ride mobile ticket. It's valid for three hours once activated and entitles you to free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value during that time.

Only regular fare mobile tickets are available for purchase.

A route selector is accessible directly on the website home page, linking you directly to a page for the local bus route of your choice.

At the top of each individual route page, you’ll find:

• Frequency of service on weekdays and weekends
• Stop-by-stop schedule
• Link to view PDF schedule which you can then download and/or print
  

On the METRO website, there’s a route map on each individual route page.

You can also use the website's Interactive System Map (best viewed on a desktop or laptop computer). In the bus section of the map, you can check a box next to any METRO bus route and the map will draw a line showing the entire route and where it runs.

If you’d prefer a physical map, we include a map image in the printed brochure for each individual bus route. Brochures are available for free at all METRO RideStore locations:

• Downtown Transit Center - 1900 Main St.
• Fannin South Transit Center - 1604 West Bellfort St.
• Main Street Square - 1001 Travis St.
• Northwest Transit Center - 7373 Old Katy Road
  

Trip planning tools are available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

METRO local buses make stops at the following locations

• Along city streets, at intersections where you see a METRO bus stop sign and/or bus shelter
• At select Park & Ride lots around the region
• At more than 20 transit centers around the region

All METRO buses have large, bright destination signs on the front of the bus above the windshield and along the passenger’s side, near the front door. These digital displays include the route number and destination.

Route Alerts or detours could affect your vehicle’s arrival time and/or the length of your trip. Subscribing to receive this information is a convenient way to know before you go.

On the METRO website, you can subscribe to receive notifications direct to your phone or email for the bus, rail, METRORapid and/or METRO curb2curb routes of your choice.

The quickest and easiest signup option can be found on each individual route page.

If you prefer, there’s also a Get Text and Email Alerts page where you can subscribe to multiple routes simultaneously.

All subscriptions are free and you can unsubscribe at any time.

If you don’t wish to subscribe, you can use any of the following:

• Routes and Schedules tab on METRO website home page - it will transport you to your route page. If there are any active alerts, a link to view them will be visible near the top of the page.
• RideMETRO app (a red triangular icon will appear on the screen if your selected route is experiencing a service alert)
• Trip planning tool, which can be accessed in multiple places. More information about that can be found in the Trip Planning topic (see question titled "How do I plan my trip?")

METRO offers a rider tool called Next Bus Texting. To use it, you'll need to know your stop number. It's posted on the bus stop sign at every bus stop location. Just text that stop number to 697433. We'll then text you back the scheduled arrival time (SC) and estimated real-time arrival (RT) of the next bus for all routes that stop at your location.

Estimated arrival times can also be accessed on:

• METRO website home page (“Track Bus or Train” tab)
  
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Automated phone line by dialing 713-635-4000
• Google or Apple maps

Increasingly, estimated arrival information will also be displayed digitally at bus stop locations and transit centers throughout the region. Transit centers are sheltered waiting areas where you can transfer to other METRO routes and services that provide access to even more destinations. They’re often found at the beginning or end of a bus route. 

These digitally displayed passenger information enhancements are part of the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, to create a better customer experience.

If you don’t require assistance, enter through the front doors, pay your fare and choose an open seat. Please avoid sitting in the priority seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities, marked by the International Symbol of Access (Wheelchair Symbol).

If you’re using a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or walker, wait for the operator to activate an accessible ramp which will allow you easy access through the front doors. You can then pay your fare and proceed to one of the priority seating areas.

Any METRO fare card:

Tap your card on the validator and the fare amount will be deducted. If you prefer to go contactless, you can wave your card close to the validator as well. Make sure the light registers green in the upper right when you tap or wave.

METRO Q Mobile Ticket:

Activate the ticket on your smartphone before boarding. It will display animated colors and motion on your phone. Show that to the bus operator as you board.

Cash:

Deposit cash and/or coins into the farebox when you board the bus.

No change is given and transfers to other METRO services aren’t included.

Yes, based on the guidance below:

Service animals

You’re allowed to travel with a service animal.

Service animal means any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, and must be kept under the handler’s control.

Non-service animals (including emotional support animals)

You’re allowed to travel with non-service animals (pets) on METRO vehicles, but they must be transported and properly restrained in an animal carrier at all times.

The regular fare to board ranges from $2-8. So a round-trip can cost $4-$16.

The discounted fare to board ranges from $1-4. So a round-trip can cost $2-8.

Fares vary by zone. To find out what zone you’re in, visit the Park & Ride bus page.

The following passengers ride free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

You can pay your Park & Ride bus fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card
• Cash

The All About Fares page has information on where you can obtain various fare cards.

If you pay your fare using a METRO Q® Fare Card, METRO Q Mobile Ticket (Park & Ride version), METRO Day Pass or METRO Money card, you’re entitled to free transfers between any of these METRO services for up to three hours in any direction:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

Depending on where your Park & Ride bus stops along its route, connections may be available to one or more of those services.

For transfers to a Park & Ride bus route with a higher cost, you only pay the fare difference for up to three hours in any direction. 

NOTE: If you use a METRO Day Pass on Park & Ride service, the cost to ride doesn't get applied to the maximum daily card deduction. Because of that, we don’t recommend using a METRO Day Pass on Park & Ride service.

You may park in the parking lot of the facility where you’re boarding a Park & Ride bus. Lots are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you plan to park for three consecutive days, you must contact the METRO Police Department to make a request in advance. Otherwise, your car is subject to being towed. 

Call 713-224-COPS (2677) by phone, or email MPDServices@ridemetro.org

It’s free to park at any METRO Park & Ride facility.

No. The METRO Police Department patrols Park & Ride lots periodically. However, there's no full-time security onsite and METRO doesn't monitor Park & Ride lots around the clock.

A route selector is accessible directly on the website home page, linking you directly to the Park & Ride bus route page of your choice.

Each individual route page includes:

• Frequency of service on weekdays and weekends
• Stop-by-stop schedule
• Link to view PDF schedule which you can then download and/or print
• Route map

You can also use the website's Interactive System Map (best viewed on a desktop or laptop computer).

In the bus section of the map, you can check a box next to any METRO bus route and the map will draw a line showing the entire route and where it runs.

If you’d prefer a physical map, we include a map image in the printed brochure for each individual bus route. Brochures are available for free at all METRO RideStore locations:

• Downtown Transit Center - 1900 Main St.
• Fannin South Transit Center - 1604 West Bellfort St.
• Main Street Square - 1001 Travis St.
• Northwest Transit Center - 7373 Old Katy Road

Route Alerts or detours could affect your vehicle’s arrival time and/or the length of your trip. Subscribing to receive this information is a convenient way to know before you go.

On the METRO website, you can subscribe to receive notifications direct to your phone or email for the bus, rail, METRORapid and/or METRO curb2curb routes of your choice.

The quickest and easiest signup option can be found on each individual route page.

If you prefer, there’s also a Get Text and Email Alerts page where you can subscribe to multiple routes simultaneously.

All subscriptions are free and you can unsubscribe at any time.

If you don’t wish to subscribe, you can use any of the following:

• Routes and Schedules tab on METRO website home page - it will transport you to your route page. If there are any active alerts, a link to view them will be visible near the top of the page.
• RideMETRO app (a red triangular icon will appear on the screen if your selected route is experiencing a service alert)

You can also use our Trip Planner which is available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

METRO offers a rider tool called Next Bus Texting. To use it, you'll need to know your stop number. It's posted on the bus stop sign at every bus stop location. Just text that stop number to 697433. We'll then text you back the scheduled arrival time (SC) and estimated real-time arrival (RT) of the next bus for all routes that stop at your location.

Estimated arrival times can also be accessed on:

• METRO website home page (“Track Bus or Train” tab)
  
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Automated phone line by dialing 713-635-4000
• Google or Apple maps

Increasingly, estimated arrival information will also be displayed digitally at bus stop locations and transit centers throughout the region. Transit centers are sheltered waiting areas where you can transfer to other METRO routes and services that provide access to even more destinations. They’re often found at the beginning or end of a bus route. 

These digitally displayed passenger information enhancements are part of the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, to create a better customer experience.

You can access METRO Park & Ride buses throughout the region at:

• More than 25 Park & Ride lots
• Select METRO transit centers

If you don’t require assistance, enter through the front doors, pay your fare and choose an open seat. Please avoid sitting in the priority seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities, marked by the International Symbol of Access (Wheelchair Symbol).

If you’re using a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or walker, wait for the operator to activate an accessible ramp which will allow you easy access through the front doors. You can then pay your fare and proceed to one of the priority seating areas.

Any METRO fare card:

Tap your card on the validator and the fare amount will be deducted. If you prefer to go contactless, you can wave your card close to the validator as well. Make sure the light registers green in the upper right when you tap or wave.

METRO Q Mobile Ticket:

Activate the ticket on your smartphone before boarding. It will display animated colors and motion on your phone. Show that to the bus operator as you board.

Cash:

Deposit cash and/or coins into the farebox when you board the bus.

No change is given and transfers to other METRO local services aren’t included.

Park & Ride bus amenities allow you to drive less and do more. They include:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Personal overhead light for reading
• Adjustable air vents for each seat
• USB outlet and electrical outlet for each seat
• Overhead storage bins
• Compartments below the floor for larger items such as bikes or luggage

The regular fare to board is $1.25

The discounted fare is 60 cents.

The following passengers ride free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

You can pay your METRORail fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card
• METRORail Ticket

The All About Fares page has information on where you can obtain various fare cards.

If you pay your fare using a METRO Q® Fare Card, METRO Q Mobile Ticket, METRO Day Pass or METRO Money card, you’re entitled to free transfers between any of these METRO services for up to three hours in any direction:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

When paying with a METRORail paper ticket, transfers to other METRO services aren’t included.

For transfers to Park & Ride bus service, you only pay the fare difference for up to three hours in any direction.

If you wish to pay with a mobile ticket and plan to ride or transfer to a Park & Ride bus during your trip, you'll need to purchase and activate a Park & Ride mobile ticket. It's valid for three hours once activated and entitles you to free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value during that time.

Only regular fare mobile tickets are available for purchase.

Frequency of service, a stop-by-stop schedule, a PDF schedule and a linear route map for each METRORail line are found on the METRORail page.

A linear route map for each METRORail line is found on the METRORail page.

You can also use our Interactive System Map (best viewed on a desktop or laptop computer). In the rail section of the map, you can check a box next to any METRORail line and the map will draw a line showing the entire route and where it runs.

If you’d prefer a physical map, we include a map image in the printed brochure for each individual METRORail line. Brochures are available for free at all METRO RideStore locations:

• Downtown Transit Center - 1900 Main St.
• Main Street Square - 1001 Travis St.
• Northwest Transit Center - 7373 Old Katy Road
• Fannin South Transit Center - 1604 West Bellfort St.

Trip planning tools are available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

METRORail trains make stops at rail station platforms along city streets in and around downtown Houston. You can also board a METRORail train at the following transit centers:

• Burnett (Red Line)
• Downtown (Red Line)
• Fannin South (Red Line)
• Magnolia Park (Green Line)
• Northline (Red Line)
• Palm Center (Purple Line)
• Texas Medical Center (Red Line)

All METRORail trains have large, bright destination signs on the front of the train above the windshield and along the side of the train as it pulls into the station.

Red Line trains would say one of the following:

• Northline TC
• Smith Lands
• Fannin South

Green Line trains would say one of the following:

• Magnolia Park
• Theater District

Purple Line trains would say one of the following:

• Palm Center TC
• Theater District

Alerts or detours could affect your train’s arrival time and/or the length of your trip. Subscribing to receive this information is a convenient way to know before you go.

On the METRO website, you can subscribe to receive notifications direct to your phone or email.

The quickest and easiest signup option can be found next to each rail line on the METRORail page.

All subscriptions are free and you can unsubscribe at any time.

If you don’t wish to subscribe, you can use any of the following:

• METRORail page (if there are any active alerts, a link to view them will be visible where the rail lines are shown)
• RideMETRO app (a red triangular icon will appear on the screen if your selected rail line is experiencing a service alert)

You can also use our Trip Planner which is available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

All METRORail platforms have scrolling digital messages in both English and Spanish that display the estimated wait time for the next train.

Estimated wait times are also posted at select transit centers where METRORail is available.

Transit centers are sheltered waiting areas where you can transfer to other METRO routes and services that provide access to even more destinations.

Certain locations feature digital signs and screens displaying service alerts and estimated wait times for routes that stop there.

This information is also available on:

• METRO website home page (“Track Bus or Train” tab)
  
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google maps

First, please let riders exit the train before you board. After all riders have disembarked through the railcar doors, please enter the train and choose an open seat. Please avoid sitting in the priority seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities, marked by the International Symbol of Access (Wheelchair Symbol).

All METRORail platforms are accessible under the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They offer sloped ramp access from both ends of the platform and level boarding that easily accommodates mobility devices.

Any METRO fare card:

Prior to boarding, tap your card on the validator located on the rail platform and the fare amount will be deducted. Some fare validators are located on freestanding poles. Others are attached to ticket vending machines.

If you prefer to go contactless, you can wave your card close to the validator as well. Make sure the light registers green in the upper right when you tap or wave.

METRO Q Mobile Ticket (only regular fare available):

Activate the ticket on your smartphone before boarding. It will display animated colors and motion on your phone. Upon request, show it to a METRO Fare Inspector or METRO Police Officer – either on the rail platform prior to boarding or on the train during your ride.

METRORail Ticket:

All METRORail platforms have ticket vending machines where you can purchase a three-hour METRORail ticket for $1.25.

The machines accept cash, credit card or debit card.

Upon request, show it to a METRO Fare Inspector or METRO Police Officer – either on the rail platform prior to boarding or on the train during your ride.

Yes, based on the guidance below:

Service animals

You’re allowed to travel with a service animal.

Service animal means any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, and must be kept under the handler’s control.

Non-service animals (including emotional support animals)

You’re allowed to travel with non-service animals (pets) on METRO vehicles, but they must be transported and properly restrained in an animal carrier at all times.

The regular fare to board is $1.25

The discounted fare is 60 cents.

The following passengers ride free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

You can pay your METRORapid fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card
• METRORapid Ticket

The All About Fares page of the website has information on where you can obtain various fare cards.

If you pay your fare using a METRO Q® Fare Card, METRO Q Mobile Ticket, METRO Day Pass or METRO Money card, you’re entitled to free transfers between any of these METRO services for up to three hours in any direction:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

When paying with a METRORapid paper ticket, transfers to other METRO services aren’t included.

For transfers to Park & Ride bus service, you only pay the fare difference for up to three hours in any direction.

If you wish to pay with a mobile ticket and plan to ride or transfer to a Park & Ride bus during your trip, you'll need to purchase and activate a Park & Ride mobile ticket. It's valid for three hours once activated and entitles you to free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value during that time.

Only regular fare mobile tickets are available for purchase.

Currently, the only active METRORapid route is the Silver Line. Frequency of service and a route map for the Silver Line is found on the METRORapid page.

At the top of the page, you’ll find:

• Frequency of service on weekdays and weekends
• Stop-by-stop schedule
• Link to view PDF schedule which you can then download and/or print

A route map is found on the METRORapid page.

You can also use our Interactive System Map (best viewed on a desktop or laptop computer). In the bus route section of the map, you can check a box next to the 433 Silver Line and the map will draw a line showing the entire route and where it runs.

If you’d prefer a physical map, we include a map image in the printed brochure for the METRORapid SIlver Line. Brochures are available for free at all METRO RideStore locations:

• Downtown Transit Center - 1900 Main St.
• Main Street Square - 1001 Travis St.
• Northwest Transit Center - 7373 Old Katy Road
• Fannin South Transit Center - 1604 West Bellfort St.

Trip planning tools are available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

METRORapid Silver Line vehicles make stops at station platforms along Post Oak Blvd. in Uptown. You can also board at the following transit centers:

• Northwest
• Westpark / Lower Uptown

METRORapid is a silver and black colored vehicle that looks like a bus but runs like rail.

The name METRORapid is clearly visible on the front and sides of the bus.

And all METRORapid vehicles have large, bright destination signs on the front above the windshield and along both sides of the vehicle, near the front. These digital displays include the route number and destination.

Alerts or detours could affect your vehicle’s arrival time and/or the length of your trip. Subscribing to receive this information is a convenient way to know before you go.

On the METRO website, you can subscribe to receive notifications direct to your phone or email.

The quickest and easiest signup option can be found next to the Silver Line information on the METRORapid page.

All subscriptions are free and you can unsubscribe at any time.

If you don’t wish to subscribe, you can use any of the following:

• METRORapid page (if there are any active alerts, a link to view them will be visible where the Silver Line is shown)
• RideMETRO app (click or tap Service Alerts on main menu)
• ONE to Ride app (a red triangular icon will appear on the screen if the Silver Line is experiencing a service alert)

You can also use our Trip Planner which is available on:

• Various pages of the METRO website, including the home page
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google or Apple maps

All METRORapid platforms have scrolling digital messages in both English and Spanish that display the estimated wait time for the next vehicle.

Estimated wait times are also posted at the transit centers where METRORapid is available.

Transit centers are sheltered waiting areas where you can transfer to other METRO routes and services that provide access to even more destinations. 

Each location features digital signs and screens displaying service alerts and estimated wait times for routes that stop there.

This information is also available on:

• METRO website home page (“Track Bus or Train” tab)
• RideMETRO app for your smartphone
• Google maps

First, please let riders exit the vehicle before you board. After all riders have disembarked through the side doors, please enter and choose an open seat. Please avoid sitting in the priority seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities, marked by the International Symbol of Access (Wheelchair Symbol).

All METRORapid platforms are accessible under the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They offer sloped ramp access from both ends of the platform and level boarding that easily accommodates mobility devices.

Any METRO fare card:

Prior to boarding, tap your card on the validator located on the platform and the fare amount will be deducted.

If you prefer to go contactless, you can wave your card close to the validator as well.

Make sure the light registers green in the upper right when you tap or wave.

METRO Q Mobile Ticket (only regular fare available):

Activate the ticket on your smartphone before boarding. It will display animated colors and motion on your phone. Upon request, show it to a METRO Fare Inspector or METRO Police Officer – either on the platform prior to boarding or on the vehicle during your ride.

METRORapid Ticket:

All METRORapid platforms have ticket vending machines where you can purchase a three-hour METRORapid ticket for $1.25.

The machines accept cash, credit card or debit card.

Upon request, show it to a METRO Fare Inspector or METRO Police Officer – either on the platform prior to boarding or on the vehicle during your ride.

Yes, based on the guidance below:

Service animals

You’re allowed to travel with a service animal.

Service animal means any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, and must be kept under the handler’s control.

Non-service animals (including emotional support animals)

You’re allowed to travel with non-service animals (pets) on METRO vehicles, but they must be transported and properly restrained in an animal carrier at all times.

The regular fare to board is $1.25

The discounted fare is 60 cents.

The following ride for free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

Upon boarding, you can pay your curb2curb fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket (regular fare only)
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card

The All About Fares page has information on where you can obtain them.

Yes. Whether you pay your fare with a fare card or mobile ticket, you’re entitled to free transfers between any of these METRO services for up to three hours in any direction:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

If your trip includes a Park & Ride bus, and you plan to use a mobile ticket, you'll need to purchase and activate a Park & Ride mobile ticket. It's valid for three hours once activated and entitles you to free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value during that time.

If you can’t get to a designated pickup location, you can book a trip one of two ways:

• Use the free METRO curb2curb app for your smartphone
• Call us at 713-739-RIDE (7433) – agents are on call daily, 5 a.m.-midnight

With either method, you can specify the exact location where you want to be picked up and dropped off. 

Whether you book a ride through the app or over the phone, all reservations are subject to availability.

Whether you book a ride through the app or over the phone, you can book a ride as early as seven days in advance, and as late as 15 minutes before your desired pick-up time.

For instance, if you need to be picked up at 11:00 a.m. – you would need to have your trip booked no later than 10:45 a.m.

All reservations are subject to availability.

If you have an iPhone, you can download the app from the App Store.

If you have an Android, you can download the app from Google Play.

Just search for METRO curb2curb

Each curb2curb route has its own designated pickup locations where you can walk right up and board.

For more information, visit the METRO curb2curb page where you can select your specific route.

An ADA-accessible low-floor minibus (pictured below).

or an ADA-accessible minivan (pictured below).

You can expect to be picked up by either of them, based on availability.

Yes. All curb2curb vehicles are accessible under the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

METRO Q® Fare Card, METRO Day Pass or METRO Money card:

Tap your card on the validator as you enter the vehicle and the fare amount will be deducted. If you prefer to go contactless, you can wave your card close to the validator as well. Make sure the light registers green in the upper right when you tap or wave.

METRO Q Mobile Ticket (only regular fare available):

Activate the ticket on your smartphone before boarding. It will display animated colors and motion on your phone. Show that to the operator as you board.

If you book your ride in advance, whether through the METRO curb2curb app or over the phone, the operator will already know your dropoff location.

If you board at a designated pickup location, just let the operator know where in the service area you need to be dropped off.

If you’re a person with a disability, you’re eligible to become a METROLift customer if you meet at least one of these criteria:

• Your disability prevents you from walking or rolling to a bus stop without assistance.
• You require assistance to board, navigate, ride or disembark from one or more of METRO’s other accessible services.
• You can use one of the other METRO accessible services but there are physical obstacles on your path which prevent you from doing so.

Eligibility decisions are based upon information provided by healthcare professionals and your functional abilities to navigate the fixed-route bus and rail system in accordance with the ADA.

Eligible riders’ certification will be classified as permanent, standard, or temporary.

Riders classified as standard or temporary will be notified by letter to reapply for services 60 days prior to the end of their eligibility period.

You must apply and do an in-person interview. You’ll then receive a final decision regarding your eligibility in writing within 21 days.

For more information, including how to apply, visit the METROLift page.

If you wish to file an appeal regarding your METROLift eligibility status, you have several options available to ensure your case is reviewed.

1. Complete and submit the online METROLift Eligibility Appeal Form.
2. Complete and submit the METROLift Eligibility Appeal Form included with your METROLift eligibility letter.
3. Call the METROLift appeals line at 713-652-4328, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Write and submit your own appeal letter notifying METRO of your intent to appeal. Make sure to provide details explaining why you believe your eligibility status should be reconsidered.

For options 2 and 4 above, or if you need to submit additional documents for your appeal, you can send them to METROLift using one of the following methods:

Mail:

METROLift Appeals
P.O. Box 61429
Houston, TX 77208-1429

Fax: Attn. Appeals Department at 713-652-8952

Email: suspension.appeals@ridemetro.org

Please note that the decision made by the Appeals Hearing Officer is final. However, if a decision has not been reached within 30 days, you retain the right to continue using METROLift services during the appeals process.

In the base service area, METROLift fares are just $1.25 for a one-way trip ($2.50 round trip). In the extended service area, the fare is $2.50 for a one-way trip ($5 round trip). If either your origin or destination (or both) are outside the base service area, the cost is $2.50 for a one-way trip ($5 for a round trip),

The base service area covers most of Harris County.

The extended service area includes locations:

• In Northwest Houston
• Around Hobby Airport
• South of Missouri City
• In and around Kingwood
• In and around Humble
• In and around Clear Lake

If you're not sure which area your origin or destination point is in, and need to calculate your fare, view the METROLift service area on our Interactive System Map.

If you make your reservation over the phone, you’ll need to:

• Hand the driver a ticket or show them your monthly or annual pass
• Show the driver your photo ID or METRO Freedom Q® Card

If you make your reservation online, your account will immediately be debited and the driver will be notified. So you won’t have to hand the driver a ticket or pass. You’ll only need to show them your photo ID or METRO Freedom Q® Card.

All METROLift customers automatically receive a METRO Freedom Q® Card when their eligibility is initially certified.

Yes, when either of the following takes place:

• Your trip includes a transfer to another accessible METRO service
• You’re called for jury duty

Single ride tickets can be purchased individually or in a sheet of 11. They’re available at:

• METRO RideStore locations
• METRO Online RideStore
• Participating retail locations
• MACS-WEB online trip planner (In the EZ-Wallet section)

You can also order single ride tickets through the mail.

For more information, visit the METROLift page

A monthly pass can be purchased at:

• METRO RideStore locations
• METRO Online RideStore
• Participating retail locations

You can also order a monthly pass through the mail.

For more information, visit the METROLift page.

An annual pass can be purchased at the following METRO RideStore locations:

• Downtown Transit Center - 1900 Main St.
• Main Street Square - 1001 Travis St.
• Northwest Transit Center - 7373 Old Katy Road

You can also order an annual pass through the mail.

For more information, visit the METROLift page.

There are three ways you can schedule a trip on METROLift:

• Log in and set up an account on our MACS-WEB online trip planner. You can then schedule your trips Mon-Sun, 5 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Call our automated phone system (Mon-Sun, 5 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 713-739-4690. You’ll need to have your METROLift ID number and password.
• Speak to a live agent by calling (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 713-225-6716

There are also three ways you can confirm or cancel your trip on METROLift:

• Log in to our MACS-WEB online trip planner. You can confirm or cancel trips any time of the day.
• Call our automated phone system at 713-739-4690. You can confirm or cancel trips any time of the day. You’ll need to have your METROLift ID number and password.
• Speak to a live agent by calling METROLift Dispatch at 713-225-0410. You can confirm or cancel trips any time of the day.

For more information, visit the METROLift page.

The time windows during which trips can be scheduled vary depending on the method you use.

Up to 3 days in advance:

• MACS-WEB online trip planner Mon-Sun, 5 a.m.-5 p.m.

One day prior to travel:

• Automated phone system (Mon-Sun, 5 a.m.- 5 p.m.) at 713-739-4690
• Live agent (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 713-225-6716

On Fridays, a live agent can schedule trips for Saturday, Sunday or Monday.

If something comes up and you need to schedule a trip on the same day, you can call METROLift at 713-652-8015.

You can book trips up to four miles one way.

Trips in the base service area: require one one-way trip ticket each way ($2.50 round trip)

Trips in the extended service area: require two one-way trip tickets each way ($5 round trip)

Our goal is to serve trips within one hour of your request.

Each trip is subject to availability.

When booking your trip, you'll be given a requested time with a plus or minus 20-minute scheduling window. If the scheduling window does not meet your needs, you may negotiate a new scheduling window of one hour before or after your requested time.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), travel times and the timeliness of service are comparable to METRO local bus service.

Trips can be canceled online or over the phone 24 hours a day. You can cancel your trip in any of these ways:

• Use the MACS-WEB Online Trip Planner
• Call 713-739-4690
• Call 713-255-0410

A no-show is when the vehicle arrives at the scheduled time and location on-time but the customer and driver don't connect, and the driver leaves without the customer.

A late cancellation is when a trip is canceled less than two hours before the customer's scheduled pick-up time.

Excessive no-shows or late cancellations that are within your control negatively affect on-time performance and service quality for other passengers. Therefore, customers with excessive no-shows / late cancellations may risk suspension of their METROLift riding privileges.

Trips can be verified online or over the phone 24 hours a day. You can cancel your trip in any of these ways:

• Use the MACS-WEB Online Trip Planner
• Call 713-739-4690
• Call 713-255-0410

You can access an online copy of the METROLift program guide here or request a printed copy by calling METROLift Customer Service (Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 713-225-0119.

An ADA-accessible minibus (pictured below),

an ADA-accessible low-floor minibus (pictured below),

an ADA-accessible minivan (pictured below),

or an ADA-accessible sedan (pictured below).

Each vehicle can accommodate a variety of mobility devices including wheelchairs, scooters and walkers. Customers may not request specific vehicle types. Although you don’t get to choose which vehicle will pick you up, the size of your mobility equipment could determine vehicle type.

Service animal

Yes. You’re allowed to travel with a service animal.

Service animal means any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, and must be kept under the handler’s control.

Non-service animals (including emotional support animals)

Yes. You’re allowed to travel with non-service animals (pets) on METRO vehicles, but they must be transported and properly restrained in an animal carrier at all times.

Please call METROLift Dispatch at 713-255-0410.

The METROLift service area covers most of Harris County including portions of Kingwood, Humble and Clear Lake.

To view the service area on a map, visit the METROLift page

For a more detailed view that includes fare information, visit our Interactive System Map.

It’s a rideshare service that allows commuters who share similar travel patterns to lease a van on a month-to-month basis so they can ride to and from work together. This is especially helpful for riders who live in areas where METRO bus service isn’t available.

METRO Star Vanpool operates in eight counties: Harris, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller.

Because you would save money on gas, tolls, maintenance and other commuting costs. This can add up to thousands of dollars in savings every year.

The van travels in high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes on the major freeways, avoiding stop-and-go traffic and reducing travel time.

And because driving responsibilities are shared, vanpoolers can enjoy more time relaxing during a stress-free commute.

Contact us at 713-224-RIDE or email Star@RideMETRO.org

You can also find our more by visiting our METRO Star Vanpool partners page

Five to 15 people ride in each vanpool.

Please register for an online account and answer a few questions. This information helps us determine if you’re looking to get matched with an existing vanpool or if you’d like to start a new vanpool.

The cost is calculated according to mileage, the number of riders and the size of the vehicle.

The average cost per passenger is just $4-6 a day. That amount factors in the rider's share of the monthly lease (including insurance and maintenance), in addition to:

• Gas
• Parking
• Tolls
• Cleaning

Some employers offer a transit benefit that lowers the cost even more.

METRO Star Vanpool offers the convenience of easy online payments of the monthly lease cost.

Operating expenses like gas, tolls, parking, etc. are generally split among the vanpoolers.

Each rider is responsible for their own seat cost and is aware of that cost. If someone disputes their charges, the METRO Star Vanpool billing team handles that dispute, not any of the other riders.

Yes. Each van has complete comprehensive coverage up to $1 million.

Each group makes its own rules. The driver is usually responsible for settling issues; however, if you can’t resolve a concern, we’re happy to help.

If there aren’t enough riders to form a vanpool in your area, you may be placed into a carpool, which has fewer riders.

An approved volunteer from the group drives, allowing the vehicle to always stay in possession of the group. Once the group is formed, we work with you to find a convenient location for all the vanpoolers to meet. Everyone parks their car and then rides together to work. At the end of the workday, the approved volunteer drops everyone back off at that same location.

The group also decides who can keep the vehicle for limited, personal use outside of business hours.

Each vanpool has one or two approved backup drivers who can take over driving responsibilities as needed.

Yes. METRO Star Vanpool will maintain and repair the vehicle when necessary. If it needs to be kept overnight, a backup vehicle will be provided.

Vanpooling is a month-to-month commitment. There are no long-term obligations. However, if you pay your fare at the beginning of the month, you’re committing to ride that month. If at some point that month you stop riding, any partial refunds are at the discretion of the group.

If you have an emergency and need to leave work early, call METRO Star Vanpool at 713-224-RIDE (7433). If we approve your trip (three maximum per year), you’ll be provided a ride to your destination. We’ll cover the cost of the ride, minus tips (which are optional). 

This program operates weekdays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. except on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Juneteenth, Labor Day Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

We arrange vehicles as needed to meet ADA requirements. Most vans are equipped with running boards and handles to assist riders with boarding. We work with vanpool groups that require ADA accommodations to find the most convenient and comfortable option to accommodate all riders, including those with disabilities.

As a practical matter, vanpool groups often struggle to retain enough riders when there are expectations of accommodating one or more riders who need assistance to board the van. We work to offset this by covering any extra costs that result from providing accessible vehicles.

In the past, we've provided a special vehicle equipped for low-floor side ramp access for a rider in a wheelchair. We installed a floor locking feature to match the one the rider had in her personal vehicle, resulting in a bi-reconfiguration of her wheelchair. Without the modifications, the group would have been in a minivan with seven passengers sharing the cost. So we priced the van such that the riders paid the same amount they would have paid individually if they were part of a seven-passenger group in a minivan.

Some vanpools allow part-time riders on an as-needed basis. If you can’t commit to full-time status, you may want to consider this. You would pay to ride as long as a seat is available.

HOV stands for High Occupancy Vehicle. An HOV lane is a barrier-separated lane that runs down the middle of I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290. The lane runs in one direction, but it’s reversible depending on the time of day. In the mornings, vehicles travel in the direction of downtown Houston. In the afternoons, vehicles travel away from downtown Houston.

On I-10, there are "managed lanes" operated by the Harris County Toll Road Authority. These are four barrier-separated express lanes with two lanes running in each direction between I-610 and Hwy. 6.

HOT stands for High Occupancy Toll. It’s the HOV lane on either I-45, Hwy. 59 or Hwy. 290, but with a toll. The toll is paid by single occupant vehicles. And the lane is only open to those single occupant vehicles outside of peak travel times.

I-45, I-69 / US 59 and Hwy. 290 (operated by METRO):

• Each has a single HOV/HOT lane that operates daily with the exception of certain holidays.

• Has “managed lanes” (two in each direction) that are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Those lanes are operated by the Harris County Toll Road Authority with HOV hours during weekday mornings and afternoons. 
• Has the Katy-CBD HOV ramp between Studemont Street and downtown Houston (one lane in each direction) open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That ramp is operated by METRO.

I-45, I-69 / US 59 and Hwy. 290 (operated by METRO):

• The managed lanes are open daily from 5-11 a.m. inbound (toward downtown) and 1-8 p.m. outbound (away from downtown.
• The lanes will be closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

I-10 (operated by Harris County Toll Road Authority):

• The managed lanes are open at all times, with HOV hours on weekdays from 5-11 a.m. and 2-8 p.m. in both directions.

I-10 Managed Lanes: between I-610 and Highway 6

I-45 (North Freeway): between downtown and just south of Cypresswood Drive.

I-45 (Gulf Freeway): between downtown and Webster, Texas

Hwy. 59 (Eastex Freeway): between downtown and Humble, Texas

Hwy. 59 (Southwest Freeway): between downtown and just north of Stafford, Texas

Hwy. 290 (Northwest Freeway): between I-10/I-610 and Cypress, Texas

I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290: 

• Vehicles with a minimum of two (sometimes three) people, and motorcycles may use the lane any time they’re open. A baby or infant is considered an occupant for meeting the HOV lane occupancy requirement.
• Single occupant vehicles may use the lane outside of peak travel times which are generally from about 6:30-8:00 a.m. and 4:30-6:00 p.m.

I-10:

• “Managed lanes” are open to all vehicles. Motorcycles and vehicles with a minimum of two people can use the lanes during HOV hours without paying a toll. Single occupancy vehicles who ride during those hours are required to pay a toll. And all vehicles are required to pay a toll outside of HOV hours.
• Katy-CBD HOV ramp into downtown is only open to buses, motorcycles, vanpools and carpools, with no toll. Single occupant vehicles aren't allowed to use this ramp.

I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290 (operated by METRO):

• It’s free to use the lanes during operating hours as long as there are two, or sometimes three, people in the vehicle.
• Single occupancy vehicles are always required to pay a toll (using an authorized toll tag) when using the lanes.
• The toll amount varies by freeway, corridor and hour of the day.
• Toll rates for specific corridors are prominently displayed ahead of each lane entrance.
• Toll rates can also be found on the HOV/HOT Express Lanes page
• Tolls may change from one hour to the next. If this happens during your trip, you're charged the toll listed when you first entered the express lane.

I-10 managed lanes (operated by Harris County Toll Road Authority):

• Toll rates vary depending on the direction and time of day you're traveling.
• Toll rates are prominently displayed on the freeway and can also be found on the HOV/HOT Express Lanes page

I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290 (operated by METRO):

You can use these toll tags in the HOT express lanes:

• Harris County EZ TAG
• TxTAG
• NTTA (North Texas Tollway Authority)
• Kansas Transit Authority (KTA)
• Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA)
• Dallas North Tollway (DNT)
• Bancpass

No other payment method is accepted.

For I-10 and other Harris County operated toll road lanes designated with an EZ TAG-ONLY sign, a TxTag or NTTA TollTag is also accepted, provided your account is in good standing and the vehicle's license plate is registered with your tag.

I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290 (operated by METRO):

• METRO buses and vanpool vehicles travel free - but non-METRO buses and vanpools will get charged unless they use the HOV ONLY lane
• Motorcycles are always free
• Qualified U.S. military veterans are eligible to receive a discounted toll – find out more information, including how to apply, on this PDF brochure

The discounted toll amount is subject to change, and certain restrictions apply.

I-10 (operated by Harris County Toll Road Authority):

• Qualified U.S. military veterans are eligible to receive a discounted toll– find out more information, including how to apply, on this PDF brochure

Vehicles must display a qualifying license plate in order to be eligible for the HCTRA Veteran Discount Tolling Program.

A map and videos showing specific entry and exit points along the I-45, Hwy. 59 and Hwy. 290 corridors can be found on the HOV / HOT Express Lanes page.

• Trailer towing is prohibited
• No trucks with more than two axles or a gross weight capacity of one ton or greater
• No bicycles – but motorcycles are permitted
• No pedestrians

There’s no minimum speed, but as with any highway driving, you should maintain enough speed to avoid slowing down the flow of traffic. The speed limit in the HOV/HOT lanes is the same as the freeway it runs alongside.

Yes. You can park at any METRO Park & Ride facility. However, if you plan to keep your car parked there for three consecutive days, you must contact the METRO Police Department in advance to make a special request. Otherwise, your car is subject to being towed. Call 713-224-COPS (2677) by phone, or email MPDServices@ridemetro.org

You can park free at all METRO Park & Ride lots.

METRO Park & Ride lots are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Limited parking is available at select transit centers. This information is found on the Access by Car page.

All transit centers offer free parking, except for Fannin South.

For the transit centers that offer parking, lots are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The daily parking fee is $3.00 per vehicle with no in-and-out privileges. Once your vehicle leaves the lot, you’ll need to pay a new fee to reenter. During special events, like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and Houston Texans home games, you can pay $25  (credit or debit card only) to park and ride the METRORail Red Line. Every passenger in your vehicle will receive a ride to and from NRG Park.

If you need to park at Fannin South regularly, you may wish to purchase a Fannin South monthly hang tag for your vehicle. The cost is $40 and entitles you to in-and-out privileges. It’s available at the METRO RideStore located at the Fannin South transit center (cash, check or credit card accepted) or you can order it through the METRO Online RideStore (credit card only).

During special events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, no new hang tags will be sold. If you have an old hang tag, you’ll need to bring it in to the METRO RideStore at Fannin South to purchase a new one.

Yes. For select events, the parking fee includes a round-trip on METRORail. If a METRORail ticket isn’t included in the special event rate, you can purchase one at one of the nearby ticket vending machines (cash, debit or credit card accepted).

Yes. The parking lot at Fannin South Transit Center Is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The METRO Police Department patrols the Park & Ride lots and transit centers periodically, but there’s no full-time security onsite.

No. METRO doesn’t monitor these facilities around the clock and therefore, can’t guarantee the security of your vehicle.

Here are a few safety tips when parking at a METRO facility:

• Always lock your vehicle
• Never leave valuables in plain view
• Pay attention to your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Park in a well-lighted area
• Never park near overgrown bushes or trees
• Walk confidently with keys in hand and check your vehicle before entering

Yes.

All our local buses have a bike rack on the front bumper that accommodates two bikes. It's easy to load your bike and snap it down to secure it.

On a Park & Ride commuter express bus, you can store your bike in the baggage compartment marked with a bicycle symbol.

Yes.

Simply roll your bike on board. You can hold it or fasten it to a wall hook at either the first or last door of every rail car. There’s a two-bike limit per train to ensure the best use of this valuable space.

Yes.

Roll your bike on board through the two rear doors and hold the bike. There are no wall hooks on METRORapid, as there are on METRORail.

Cyclists are prohibited from riding bicycles in the station areas, corridors, on platforms or in any covered areas.

Cyclists are responsible for their own bicycles and all actions, injuries, losses and/or damages resulting from their bicycles in station platform areas and on board vehicles.

Cyclists under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult. If cyclists violate METRO policy, they may be asked to remove their bicycles from the station areas, platforms or trains.

Yes. Many METRO facilities offer loop parking spots. Some even offer covered parking. A complete list of bike parking locations, divided by region, is found on the Accessing METRO by Bike page. 

METRO Police patrol parking lots periodically but don’t monitor them around the clock, so we can’t guarantee the security of your bike. METRO isn’t responsible for any damage to bikes.

No. You’ll need to bring your own bike lock.

We’ve made investments in people, equipment, technology and education campaigns to help protect and promote your safety when biking around METRO vehicles.

We’re also a partner of Vision Zero Houston – working with other organizations to help improve safety and accessibility of streets and sidewalks. The goal is to end traffic deaths and serious injuries caused by crashes on Houston roads by the year 2030.

Stop. Look. Listen.

That’s especially important around METRORail lines. Trains travel along the street and are very quiet. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself and those around you:

• Pay attention to and obey all traffic signs and signals 
• Never enter an intersection against the traffic lights – you could be issued a ticket
• Never stop on the tracks
• Listen for train whistles, bells and horns
• Cross the tracks only at designated crossings and only when it’s safe to do so
• Never ride or walk your bicycle around lowered crossing gates, as this indicates that a train is approaching
• Look both ways before crossing the tracks – as trains travel in both directions
• Never race a train or try to beat the train to a crossing

In Texas, helmets aren’t required for adults. But in Houston, children under the age of 18 must always wear approved bicycle helmets, as riders or passengers.

Before you even ride it’s a good idea to look at the schedules and plan your trip. That way, you don’t have to wait long for your bus or train.

As you begin your trip, here are a few best practices:

• Remain alert at all times
• Walk or move with a purpose
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Don’t trust anyone around you
• Don’t flash valuables
• Keep your personal belongings close
• Try to stay in a group or near others

If you’re traveling at night, stay in well-lit areas and stay away from areas with obstructed views.

To identify suspicious behavior, some things you should pay attention to include:

Appearance

• Anyone wearing clothes unsuitable for the time of year
• Anything protruding in an unusual way underneath a person’s clothing

Behavior

• Nervousness, tension, intense sweating, hesitant mumbling
• Walking slowly while glancing right and left, or running in a suspicious manner
• Taking photos of transit operations and equipment without displaying proper credentials

Items

• Electrical wires, switches or electronic devices sticking out of a bag or pocket
• Unattended bags, packages, boxes, backpacks
• Unexplained smoke or odd odors

The best place to ride on a bus is near the front, as close to the operator as possible. Unless you have a disability, please avoid sitting in the priority seating areas for the elderly and people with disabilities, marked by the International Symbol of Access (Wheelchair Symbol).

On a METRO train, we’d recommend you ride in the front car of the train, either directly behind the operator or in the middle of the rail car, closest to the window.

If you’re on a METRO vehicle, report any suspicious package to the operator immediately. On METRORail, use the emergency intercoms located adjacent to each doorway inside the vehicle.

If you’re not on a METRO vehicle, report it to the nearest METRO Police Officer or transit employee immediately. When reporting a package, make sure you leave the area first. You should avoid using your cell phone or anything that emits an electronic signal within 300 feet of the package.

If you’re seriously injured, call 911. If not, you can do any of the following:

• Call or text METRO Police at 713-224-COPS (2677)
• Alert the operator or fare inspector so they can intervene or contact MPD
• Report the incident through the RideMETRO App (METRO Police section)

Here are a few protective measures:

• Keep your phone close to you at all times
• Enable all security features and create a hard-to-guess PIN or password
• Install or enable apps that can remotely track, lock or erase sensitive data from your device
• Insure your device so the cost of a replacement device is covered

If your phone gets lost or stolen, alert an operator or fare inspector so they can intervene or contact MPD.

You may carry a weapon lawfully if you don’t make it accessible to others.

If you do so:

• Make sure you’re familiar with it
• You should be willing to use it in your defense

Don’t engage (be polite but firm) and don’t give money. Opening your purse or wallet creates an opportunity for robbery.

You can always donate to charities that help the homeless and support that charity’s work.

To help make the journey pleasant and safe for everybody, METRO has developed a Code of Conduct for riders.

For example, smoking is prohibited in covered or enclosed facilities, including transit centers, bus stop shelters and platforms. And consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on METRO property.

Please review the full METRO Code of Conduct.

Depending on the severity of the violation, you could be fined. You could also be temporarily or permanently suspended from using the system. And you could forfeit any refund or unused funds that may expire during the time when you’re suspended from riding.

No, you don’t need a permit to take photos. We just ask that you don’t interfere with the safe movement of people or vehicles. 

For example, camera lights or flashes should never be aimed in the direction of an oncoming vehicle or used within a moving vehicle. Tripods and other equipment must not be placed in any location that interferes with the safe movement of people or vehicles.

Photography is prohibited in any areas of the METRO system not accessible to the general public.

The law permits photography of private citizens in public places but, as a courtesy, we ask that you request permission of people before snapping their pictures.

For commercial or media photography requests, you can email the METRO Media team at media@RideMETRO.org

The METRO Police Department (MPD) is a full-time, full-service police agency of sworn Texas Peace Officers and civilian staff members. They patrol area streets, roadways and METRO facilities on foot and by using police cars, motorcycles, bicycles and segways. MPD plays a large role in special events and emergency response situations. Plus, the MPD canine force sniffs out explosives. Behind the scenes, MPD’s investigative unit helps solve crimes and make arrests, aided by surveillance cameras on buses, trains, Park & Ride lots and transit centers.

Yes. MPD maintains a cooperative working relationship with all law enforcement agencies within the METRO service area to fight crime and solve cases. 

It’s also partnered with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to alert the community about potential threats and what to do in response.

MPD also participates in:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Joint Terrorism Task Force
• Houston Police Department Regional Auto Theft Task Force
• Houston Police Homeless Outreach Unit
• Houston Police Fusion Center
• Crime Stoppers of Houston
• and more

Yes, MPD officers are licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. They have the same law enforcement authority as other licensed peace officers in the State of Texas, including Houston Police Department officers. 

MPD investigates all crime that occurs on METRO property or right-of-ways. 

It acts on information received from Crime Stoppers and individuals who report criminal activity observed on METRO property or right-of-ways.

It’s defined as any part of the county in which the one cent METRO sales tax is collected. This area spans more than approximately 1,300 square miles, which includes most of Harris County and portions of Montgomery, Fort Bend and Waller Counties. The METRO service area crosses several political jurisdictions and METRO Police shares jurisdiction with those police agencies. However, MPD is the primary agency whenever an incident occurs on METRO property. MPD also has primary jurisdiction of the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) / High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lane network, along with other locations where transit-related incidents occur.

Yes. The Crime Stoppers phone number is 713-222-TIPS (8477).

Call or text METRO Police at 713-224-COPS (2677).

If you’d prefer to submit a report, you can access the METRO Police form in the Contact Us section of the RideMETRO App.

Activities that are threatening to yourself or others should be reported immediately. Please do either or both of the following:

• Call 911
• Alert the operator or fare inspector so they can intervene or contact the METRO Police Department

In a non-emergency situation, you can also report crimes by calling or texting MPD at 713-224-COPS (2677).

Call MPD at 713-224-COPS (2677). The information you give over the phone determines if a police officer will be dispatched to speak with you in person.

Yes. To offer tips, call the non-emergency line at 713-224-COPS (2677). You may also call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).

For emergencies, dial 911.

To search for an accident report, you must have the date of the accident and the name of anyone listed on the accident report. 

Please allow five business days after the accident has occurred before trying to access it. Some accident reports may require additional time to process. 

The fee to obtain an accident report is $6.00.

The fee to obtain an accident report online or in person is $6. To obtain one, you can do either of the following:

1. Visit the METRO RideStore at Downtown Transit Center (1900 Main Street, First Floor), Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

2. Access the report online at least five business days after the accident has occurred. Some accident reports may require additional time to process.

For more information, call METRO Police Department Records Section at 713-615-6480.

You may choose either to pay METRO a $75 administrative fee or resolve it through the City of Houston Municipal Courts. 

If you pay the $75 fine directly to METRO, it must be received within 30 days from when the ticket was issued.

By doing that:

• You won’t have to appear in court
• The complaint against you will be dismissed without any criminal finding
• You waive your right to a jury trial

Otherwise, you may proceed through the judicial system by following the instructions on the citation.

You can pay by U.S. mail or in person at the MPD Records Window.

U.S. Mail (check or money order only, payable to “Metropolitan Transit Authority”):

METRO Police Department 
Records Section, 13th Floor
1900 Main St.
Houston, Texas 77002

In person:

1900 Main St.
First floor in the RideStore
Hours of operation: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

You can pay with cash, personal check (with proper ID), cashier’s check, money order or credit/debit card.

Call Lost & Found at 713-658-0854, or email lostandfound@ridemetro.org

Location:

Buffalo Bayou
810 N San Jacinto St.
Houston, Texas 77002

Administration office Hours:

Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

MPD operates 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

You can leave feedback by doing any of the following:

• Email MPDServices@ridemetro.org
• Visit the METRO Police section of the RideMETRO App
• Complete an online survey 
• Visit us in-person at the METRO RideStore - 1900 Main Street in Houston

Specific wrongdoing or abusive treatment by a METRO Police Officer during a traffic stop or arrest is a valid complaint and will be investigated fully. However, disagreements over the validity of a citation or arrest don’t constitute a valid complaint. These matters are to be resolved in the proper court with any evidence that may exist.

Yes. You can submit a complaint online using the submit a police complaint form. 

The only personal information you’re required to provide is your email address.

Yes. All formal complaints must be received within 30 days of the alleged incident unless a waiver is granted by the METRO Chief of Police. Any complaint can be made anonymously, without giving your name. However, you can’t be informed of the internal review’s result if you choose to remain anonymous.

You can pick up a complaint packet at 1900 Main Street or download and print the sworn affidavit form which will need to be notarized before being submitted. If you require a notary, you may come to 1900 Main Street and your document will be notarized at no charge.

Once notarized, the form may be submitted:

• In person at 1900 Main Street
• Via email to Thomas.Barnes@RideMETRO.org
• By U.S. mail
  

Address:

METRO Police Department
Attn: Professional Standards Section
1900 Main St.
Houston, Texas 77002

The METRO Chief of Police.

After a thorough investigation, the complaint will be classified into one of the following dispositions:

Exonerated
Act was lawful and proper.

Unfounded
Incident did not occur or affected employee was not involved.

Not Sustained
Insufficient evidence was found to clearly prove or disprove the allegation.

Sustained
The allegation is supported by sufficient evidence. Violation of policy and procedure did occur, and the appropriate administrative action will be taken

Misconduct Not Based on Complaint – Sustained
Substantiated misconduct not alleged in the complaint, but disclosed in the investigation.

Policy Failure
The allegation is true and the action of the department or the employee was consistent with Agency policy.

There are five types of disciplinary action which can be recommended for a sustained case: 

• Training 
• Counseling 
• Written reprimand 
• Suspension 
• Termination

To appeal a fine in Houston, contact the City of Houston courts. 

To appeal a fine outside Houston, contact the Harris County courts. 

If you’ve been issued a suspension notice, you may appeal your suspension to the Appeals Coordinator within five business days of issuance. A request for appeal must include the citation number, grounds for appeal, date of request and contact information of requestor.

You may submit your appeal by calling 713-739-4941 or emailing SuspensionAppeals@RideMETRO.org

You can also mail a written appeal to:

METRO Appeal Program
P.O. Box 61429
Houston, Texas 77208-1429

The MPD Canine Program assists with explosive detection throughout the Houston region. This includes major events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and national sporting events.

In past years, METRO K-9 teams have won several competitions at the National Narcotics Detector Dog Association's Regional Seminar for explosives detection and for patrol.

MPD makes these services available to many agencies across the Houston region.

Yes. In partnership with organizations including the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, METRO police officers participate in the Motorist Assistance Program (M.A.P.).

This service provides roadside assistance to stranded drivers on most Houston area freeways. Since 1989, M.A.P. has helped more than 100,00 motorists. Vehicles patrol freeways around Houston and are equipped with gasoline, water, hand tools, jumper cables, and push bumpers.

If you’re stranded or see someone who is, call 713-CALL-MAP. That’s 713-225-5627.

The program is free and operates Mon.-Fri., 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

An account must be set up before you can purchase tickets in the app. You can create an account by downloading the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing App. If you have an iOS device, you can download the app from the App Store. If you have an Android device, you can download the app from Google Play. 

After the app is downloaded and you open it for the first time, a prompt to create an account will appear.

You have the option of entering your real name or a nickname when creating your account. However, the email address and phone number you enter must actually exist so that confirmations can be sent and received.

After launching the app, tap Settings in the lower right corner of the app, then tap Change Password.

The app has a “Forgot Password” link which will send a reset email to the account on record.

There’s no limit to the number of tickets available on an account. Each ticket can be activated at a time of your choosing.

You also have the option to securely store up to $500 in funds for future mobile ticket purchases using the app’s Digital Wallet.

Yes. The easiest way to add payment methods is to tap Settings in the lower right corner of the app, then tap Payment Methods, then tap the Add New Payment Method button.

It’s stored on a securely encrypted server hosted by the financial clearing house. METRO has no access to that information.

Using the METRO Q Ticketing mobile app, you can purchase a Local Single Ride or Local Day Pass mobile ticket to ride any of these METRO transit services:

• Local bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

After activating your ticket, it's valid for three hours and includes free transfers in any direction between any of those services.

To ride, or transfer to Park & Ride service, you'll need to purchase and activate a Park & Ride mobile ticket. It's also valid for three hours once activated and entitles you to free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value during that time.

Only regular fare mobile tickets are available for purchase.

First, you’ll need an internet connection.

Download the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing App and set up an account. Then, mobile tickets may be purchased in one of two ways:

• In the app, tap Store along the bottom menu to get started
• Log in to your account on the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing Store

You may purchase mobile tickets with any of the following:

• Credit card (including prepaid debit cards or transit benefits cards)
• PayPal
• Apple Pay (iOS devices only)
• Google Pay (Android devices only)

You can securely store up to $500 in funds for future mobile ticket purchases using the app’s Digital Wallet.

You may purchase up to 30 individual tickets in one transaction.  

If you’ve purchased one or more mobile tickets that you haven’t used, they’ll be listed under Available in the Use section of the app. From there, you can activate a ticket.

Once activated, your ticket is valid for up to three hours.

You can activate your purchased METRO mobile ticket just prior to boarding.

On Local bus, Park & Ride bus or METRO curb2curb - show it to the operator as you board.

On METRORail or METRORapid, show it to the METRO fare inspector or METRO police officer upon request prior to boarding or during your ride.

Yes. Buying and using tickets for multiple riders on a single device is a great benefit of the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing App.

When using multiple tickets, the ticket you display to the operator, fare inspector, or METRO police officer will show which types of tickets and the number of tickets used for the group.

It’s a rideshare service providing on-demand, curb to curb transportation within specific zones in the following Houston communities:

• Acres Homes (Northwest Houston) – daily, 5 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Hiram Clarke (just east of Missouri City, Texas) – daily, 5 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Kashmere / Trinity Gardens (Northeast Houston) – daily, 8 p.m.-midnight
• Missouri City, Texas – daily, 5 a.m.-7 p.m.

The regular fare to board is $1.25. The discounted fare is 60 cents. Both include free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value for up to three hours in any direction. For transfers to a service with a higher cost, you only pay the fare difference for up to three hours in any direction.

The following ride for free:

• Children five or younger, accompanied by an adult
• Seniors 70 years or older who have a discounted METRO Q® Fare Card
• Disabled or decorated veterans who have a METRO Veterans Pass
• METROLift customers with a METROLift Freedom Q® Card, and up to one assistant

Upon boarding, you can pay your fare using any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money card

The All About Fares page has information on where you can obtain them.

When you first open the app, you’ll see a Register button. You’ll need your name, phone number, email address, and password to register.

You can enter your real name or a nickname when creating your account. However, the email address and phone number you enter must actually exist so that confirmations can be sent and received.

After launching the curb2curb app, select the “Sign In” button, then select the “Forgot Password?” option and follow the prompts.

If, after trying that, you still can’t access your account, call curb2curb at 713-739-RIDE (7433).

You’re able to book rides up to seven days in advance of your travel date and as late as 15 minutes before your desired pickup time. For instance, if you need to be picked up in the Missouri City zone at 11 a.m. – you’d need to have your trip booked no later than 10:45 a.m.

You can also book a ride by calling 713-739-7433. Agents are on call daily, 5 a.m.-midnight.

Whether you book through the app or over the phone, all reservations are subject to availability.

No. In the app, you have the option to set up a “Multi-Day Subscription.” That’s a trip which occurs multiple times. By doing this, you won’t have to book your ride each time.

In the app, service areas are highlighted in red on an interactive map. You may need to zoom out on the map to see those red areas. When you enter your pickup and dropoff locations, both addresses need to be in one of those red service areas. You can’t travel between service areas.

If you enter a pickup and/or dropoff address that’s outside of those service areas, a message will pop up letting you know the trip can’t be booked. You’ll be given the option to try again.

All METRO curb2curb shuttles are accessible under the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

When booking a ride through the METRO curb2curb app, you’ll be offered a variety of accessibility options to accommodate one or more of the following:

• Wheelchair or mobility scooter
• Walker
• Service animal

Once your driver arrives, they’re only allowed to wait one minute. Please be at your pickup location ready to go in time for when your vehicle arrives. 

When you book a ride on the app, you’ll be shown a time window for pickup and you’ll be able to track your ride before it arrives. When your ride is nearby, you’ll receive a text notifying you that you’re next to be picked up.

No. Dropoff locations can’t be changed once you’re on the vehicle. You’ll have to book another ride to the new location, either through the app or by calling 713-739-3823. In a case like this, your original dropoff location will now be the pickup address for your new ride.

Because your fare payment includes free transfers between any METRO service of equal or lesser value for up to three hours in any direction, you won’t need to pay another fare when your new ride arrives. It will function as a transfer from one METRO curb2curb shuttle to another.

When you make a purchase at a participating Rider Rewards partner location, show any one of the items below to receive the Rider Rewards discount being offered by that partner.

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money Card
• METRO Veterans Pass
• METRORail Ticket
• METRORapid Ticket
• Jury summons

Discounts vary, as do the terms and conditions of each. Some restaurants offer a 10% discount. Others offer a free drink with purchase. You can see participating Rider Rewards partners on the Rider Rewards page.

Each participating Rider Rewards partner offers one deal. Some may give you more than one discount option, but you can only receive one discount per visit.

METRO provides participating Rider Rewards partners with a sticker to display on their front door or around the cash register(s). However, we can’t guarantee that each partner will do so.

Yes. When you call in your order, we recommend you request the METRO Rider Rewards discount be applied. Then, when you pick up your order, please make sure you show any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money Card
• METRO Veterans Pass
• METRORail Ticket
• METRORapid Ticket
• Jury summons

If you’re ordering delivery direct from the restaurant, yes. When you call in your order, we recommend you request the METRO Rider Rewards discount be applied. Then, when it’s delivered, please make sure you show any of the following:

• METRO Q® Fare Card
• METRO Q Mobile Ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money Card
• METRO Veterans Pass
• METRORail Ticket
• METRORapid Ticket
• Jury summons

If you’re ordering delivery through a food delivery app (GrubHub, DoorDash, etc,) – you should assume the discount can’t be applied.

Yes. For more info on group discounts, contact us at client.services@ridemetro.org or 713-739-4015.

Please report it to us by sending an email to nicole.adler@ridemetro.org.