SEPTA operates over 120 Bus Routes with most routes in the City of Philadelphia proper. SEPTA generally employs lettered, one and two-digit route numbering for its City Division routes, 90-series and 100-series routes for its Suburban Division routes, 200-series routes for its Regional Rail connector routes (Routes 201, 204, 205 and 206 in Montgomery & Chester Counties), 300-series routes for other specialized or third-party contract routes, and 400-series routes for limited service buses to schools within Philadelphia.
Bus Routes serve a number of neighborhoods and even more destinations throughout our region. Routes are designed to connect at nearby intersections; along with terminals, loops, and transportation centers.
Routes running 24 hours a day are known as Night Owl Bus Routes. Night Owl Bus Routes are Route 6, 14, 17, 20, 23, 33, 37, 42, 47, 52, 56, 60, 66, 73, 79, 108, 109, G, and R.
Now let's ride...
1. First things first. If you have a smartphone, download the SEPTA App for schedules, maps, TransitView, and more! Don't worry - it's free to download. No smartphone? No problem. You can use a computer to find this info at septa.org or call SEPTA Customer Service at 215-580-7800 to speak to a Customer Service Representative.
2. Grab your SEPTA Key Senior ID Card. Don’t have one? If you're 65+, you want to get a SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card. There's no charge to get one and it allows you to ride all of SEPTA - including Regional Rail (within PA) - FOR FREE! You can get one at SEPTA Headquarters (1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA) or at your local legislator's office. Check with your legislator’s office for times and requirements. Note: You'll receive your card on the spot if you come to SEPTA Headquarters.
Cards are issued or renewed by appointment only at SEPTA HQ. Appointments can be made two ways:
- By phone: call (215) 580-7145 and press 6
- By requesting an appointment online
Appointments will be in the lower lobby of SEPTA Headquarters, 1234 Market Street. Appointment times are between 8 am and 5 pm weekdays.
If you opt to visit your legislator, it could take up to four (4) weeks to receive your card via mail. Click here for more info!
3. Go to your Bus stop or station/loop.
4. Board the bus. (Passenger etiquette tip: Let people off before getting on.)
5. Tap your SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card on the "validator" located next to the Bus Operator.
6. Take a seat and watch for your stop.
7. To request a "stop", pull the yellow cord.
8. Exit bus.
Check Bus schedules to plan your trip.
Learn how to ride other SEPTA transit vehicles.
Quick Tips:
✔️ Strollers & shopping carts may need to be folded depending on conditions (except wheelchair strollers).
✔️ Yield designated seats to Disabled Riders.
✔️ Drinks in containers with a resealable lid and light, small snacks OK on board.
✔️ Don't share your music - use earbuds or headphones.
✔️ Keep phone calls brief, talk in a low voice, don't use the speaker, mute the ringer.
✔️ Check that you have all of your belongings before leaving the vehicle. Be alert for unattended bags or items.
✔️ Speed everyone's journey - exit by the center doors.
✔️ Stay on the curb until the bus pulls away.
