Transfers
Need to take more than one bus to reach your destination? A transfer lets you continue your trip without paying again. Get a free transfer card when you board your first bus.
Transfers
A transfer is a card that lets you switch from one CATA bus to another without paying a second fare. The farebox prints your transfer card when you ask for one.
Transfers are free and let you keep riding in the same direction. You cannot use a transfer to make a return trip.
Who Needs a Transfer
You need a transfer if you pay with cash or a credit card and use more than one bus to reach your destination.
Riders who need transfers
- Cash riders switching to another route
- Credit card riders switching to another route
Riders who do not need transfers
- Pass holders (your pass covers all routes)
How to Get a Transfer
Getting a transfer is easy.
When you board your first bus, pay your fare and tell the driver you need a transfer. The farebox will print a card with the date, time and expiration. Take the card and keep it safe to use on your next bus.
How to Use a Transfer
When you board your next bus, use your transfer card instead of paying again.
Step 1 : Board your next bus
- Get on the bus you're transferring to.
Step 2 : Insert your transfer card
- Put your transfer card in the farebox slot.
- The farebox will read your card and accept it if it's still valid.
Step 3 : Continue your trip
- Find your seat and ride to your destination.
Transfer Rules
Transfers have a few important rules you need to know.
Valid for 2 Hours
Each transfer is good for 2 hours from the time it's printed. The expiration time shows on your transfer card.
Can Be Used Twice
You can use your transfer up to 2 times within the 2-hour period. This means you can transfer to a second bus and then to a third bus if needed.
One Direction Only
Transfers let you continue in one direction toward your destination. You cannot use a transfer to make a return trip.
Pay the Fare Difference for Higher-Fare Services
Transferring to a service with the same fare or a lower fare is free. When you transfer to a higher-fare service like CATA Rural Service, you must pay the difference in fare when you board.
Example: If you paid $1.25 on your first bus and transfer to a service that costs $2.25, you pay $1.00 when you board the second bus.
Contact customer service: Phone: 517-394-1000 or Email: info@cata.org . Hours: Weekdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Weekends 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.