StarTran Frequently Asked Questions

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Where can I catch the bus and what are the schedules?

StarTran's online trip planner is available to help you find the best route to your destination. You may also consult the routes & schedules for all time tables and maps. If you have additional questions regarding any of the routes, schedules, or services offered by StarTran you may call the StarTran Customer Service Office at 402-476-1234 weekdays from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Operators are on hand to assist you in making your ride a pleasant and convenient one.

Do I need exact change when riding the bus?

If you are paying your fare with cash, please have exact change ready when you board the bus. (Bus operators are not allowed to give change, handle or deposit fares.) If you do not have exact change, a change card will be issued which can be utilized on your next trip. This change card cannot be exchanged for cash.

For your convenience StarTran offers digital passes, 31-consecutive-day passes, 20-ride passes and day passes.

Where can I obtain a monthly pass?

The 31 Consecutive Day Pass saves you cash with unlimited trips for 31 days. Also, for your convenience, 20-ride passes and day passes are available.

StarTran passes may be purchased from a mobile device using the Token Transit app. Passes are also available at several locations including major banks, grocery stores and the StarTran office (cash, check or credit card accepted at the StarTran office). For more information on passes go to outlets, or call (402) 476-1234.

Can I take more than one bus with a single fare?

If you need to take more than one bus to get to your destination, ask the StarTran bus operator for a transfer ticket when you board your first bus. Transfers are free and allow you to change buses without having to pay another fare. One free transfer is allowed per paid fare.

A transfer allows you to board a different bus going in the same direction as if it were the first bus you boarded. The transfer is good for one 90 minutes.

Video: Paying Your Fare

How do I identify my bus?

Every StarTran bus is marked beside the front door and above the windshield with a route number and name. If you should have any doubts or questions about the routes, please feel free to ask the bus operator.

How can I tell where the bus stops are?

Bus Stop Sign Example

All bus stops on every route are marked by a blue and green bus stop sign. For passenger convenience, bus shelters are located at major boarding areas.

Buses will only stop at a bus stop if there are riders waiting to board or a passenger on the bus has requested a stop.

For your safety, buses will not load or unload in a construction zone (i.e. barricades, orange cones, barrels, fence, tape, piles of dirt, holes, etc.). In a construction area, loading and unloading will be at the next designated stop before or after the construction zone.

Video: Riding With StarTran

How do I get on the bus?

Arrive at your stop at least five to ten minutes early, and stand near your bus stop when you see the bus approaching. Buses will only stop at a bus stop if there are riders waiting to board or a passenger on the bus has requested a stop.

Some stops are served by multiple routes. Be sure to board the correct bus by confirming the route number on the LED sign on the front of the bus.

When the bus arrives at your stop, please wait for any passengers to exit before entering through the front door of the bus. From there, just pay your fare and find your seat. If no seats are available, you're welcome to stand and hold on to a nearby rail for safety.

Video: Riding With StarTran

How do I get off the bus?

Upcoming stops will be announced over the loudspeaker and scroll across the LED sign at the front of the bus. When you see your stop approaching, pull the cord along the top of the windows or press a red "stop" button near you. This will alert the bus operator to let you off at the next designated stop.

If you are not familiar with the area, ask the bus operator to let you know when you are approaching your destination.

Traffic does NOT stop for the bus, so when you get off the bus you need to wait on the corner for the bus to pass and check all directions for traffic before crossing the street.

Video: Riding With StarTran

What if I lost something on the bus?

Please check your seat before exiting the bus and make sure you have all of your belongings as StarTran is not responsible for lost or stolen items. However, if you do leave something, you may call the StarTran Customer Service Office at (402) 476-1234 between 8:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Every attempt will be made to recover your lost item. Lost and found items can be picked up at 710 “J” Street. Items will be kept up to 15 days, so please be sure and pick up your items within that time.

Are there any rules to follow while on the bus?

A complete list of rules can be found on the Bus Passenger Behavior Policy page.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?

All of StarTran's regular bus routes are wheelchair accessible.

Do you have special transportation services for the elderly and disabled?

Disabled persons unable to use regular bus service may qualify/register for specially equipped StarTran Paratransit at the League of Human Dignity, 1701 "P" Street, 402-441-7871. Following registration, reservations for Paratransit may be made by calling the StarTran Dispatcher. Fare for the special door-to-door service is $2.50 each way. Special Transportation Services 20-ride and 31-consecutive-day passes may also be used.

Reduced bus fares on fixed route buses are available to senior citizens (62 and older) and disabled persons. By showing your bus operator a Medicare Card, Senior Saver, Go For Less Photo ID card or State ID/Driver's License you may ride the bus for only 60¢. This reduced fare program is applicable all day, during peak and non-peak bus service hours.

Do you offer reduced rates for UNL students?

A program allows UNL students, faculty, and staff to ride any StarTran regular, fixed route service with a special bus pass issued by the University. Persons using this pass must also present a current UNL photo I.D. card when boarding the bus.

Related: UNL Routes

Do you offer reduced rates for low income families?

The low income program enables eligible low-income individuals to purchase a StarTran 31-Consecutive Day Pass at a reduced price of $8 for regular, fixed route service and $16.00 for Paratransit (must be Paratransit eligible). Patrons must present photo identification with birth date and the previous month's pass each time. Only one pass will be issued per person per 31-day period. Income guidelines are set at 200% of poverty level.

Related: Low Income Bus Pass

What do I do if I think I've been discriminated against by StarTran based on my race, color, or national origin?

Complaints may be submitted to the City Ombudsman in the Mayor's Office. Please see the StarTran Title VI Policy for more information.