Below are frequently asked questions from users of MTA Bus Time. If your question hasn't been asked yet, and you don't see the answer on the About or Help pages, contact us with your question.
How can I use this system while I'm out at the bus stop?
MTA Bus Time is available via any web browser on any iPhone, Android, or other Internet-enabled smartphone via Bus Time for Mobile. You can also receive bus information via SMS text message by texting your bus stop code or nearby intersection to: 511123. Add the route number (e.g. B15) for best results.
Instructions: To use it via text messaging just send your intersection and bus route the 6-digit bus stop code (located on the bus stop pole schedules) and bus route to 511123.
Why does the MTA Bus Time system sometimes lag behind where I see the buses on the street?
MTA Bus Time gets information from each bus frequently, but a weak wireless can occasionally cause updates to lag or skip, so please don't wait until the last second to go to your stop.
Why did a bus that I saw on the street not show up in MTA Bus Time?
The most likely cause of this problem is that the GPS/tracker hardware on the bus needs to be repaired. We aim to repair the hardware as quickly as possible, usually within a day or two.
Of course, the hardware may be working fine and you may have experienced some other bug in the MTA Bus Time system. In any case, it helps us to hear from you about this type of problem, so please let us know about your experience using the MTA Bus Time system.
Can I bookmark my favorite route or stop?
Yes. There’s two ways.
The easiest is, after selecting a route or stop, to clink the link that says “add to favorites”.
You can also continue to simply bookmark the page after selecting your route or stop. The bookmark will bring you back to this page.
Why does MTA Bus Time show parts of routes not being used for my trip?
Not every trip on a route makes the exact same stops. Some routes have trips with different start or endpoint stops, and others have spurs that are only served on certain days or times, like when schools are open. But they are all part of the route at times.
Why doesn’t MTA Bus Time tell me when service that isn’t 24/7 will resume?
While The MTA provides quite a lot of overnight bus service, some routes are not served at all times of day – particularly the express routes. Bus Time has always been geared to answer the question “where is my bus and when will it arrive”, rather than be a trip planner or provide schedules. You can always check schedules for your route here.
How does MTA Bus Time work?
Please see the MTA Bus Time Technology page.
How can I help improve MTA Bus Time?
To report any issues or make suggestions regarding MTA Bus Time, Contact Us.
I am not able to access MTA Bus Time via SMS. What does "Message Blocking Active" mean?
Your account with your wireless carrier has certain messages prohibited. You can usually re-enable this via your wireless carrier's website or by calling their customer support.
