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Taking the bus for the first time, whether it's after a long hiatus, in a new area, or to an unfamiliar destination, can feel daunting and confusing. To help ease your worries, we have compiled a Q&A addressing common concerns. If in doubt remember, our drivers are there to help!
Q: When do I qualify for a free bus pass and how do I apply for one?
A: You are eligible for a free Older Persons concessionary bus pass when you reach the State Pension age. Disabled and companion bus passes are also available if you meet certain criteria. These passes enable free travel on local bus services all over England, including in London, although time restrictions apply.
You can apply online, by phone, or via your local library who can help you through the process.
For Oxfordshire residents, simply call the Concessionary Fares team on 0345 310 1111 first to start your application. For more information visit: Oxfordshire County Council - Bus passes
Q: How do I find out which bus goes where and when without using apps or online resources?
A: If you’re not sure which bus company runs routes in your area you can call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33*. They will be able to help you plan your journey.
A telephone service** is offered by both Oxford Bus Company (01865 785400) and Stagecoach (0345 241 8000) to answer your queries.
Oxford Bus Company also have two travel shop locations in Oxford that offer printed timetables and face to face support:
• Gloucester Green Travel Shop, 89 Gloucester Green, Oxford, OX1 2BU.
• City Sightseeing Visitor Information Point, 44 - 45 High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AP.
Oxford Bus Company can also advise on Thames Travel, Pulhams and Carousel routes.
* Calls are charged at 12p per minute
** Calls are charged at geographic rates and are included in call packages from both landlines and mobiles.
You can also use the SMS text message service to find out the next few bus departures from a bus stop. Simply text the Bus Stop Code to 84637. (You can usually find a sign with the bus stop code at the stop. You can see an example below)
Additionally, every bus stop should have a timetable showing which buses operate to/from the stop and at what times. This will be either fixed to the bus stop pole or inside the bus shelter.
Q: What if I can't see the number on an oncoming bus?
A: This issue will be improved as more modern buses enter service. For instance, the new electric buses in Oxford feature large destination screens on the front and side to improve visibility and enlarge the lettering.
We've also asked drivers to slow down near stops to give passengers more time to read the numbers. If you’re unsure, don't hesitate to flag down the bus; we prefer stopping unnecessarily instead of missing passengers.
Q: How do I know when to get off, especially at night?
A: Most buses in Oxfordshire have audible and visual next-stop announcements. Drivers can also help if you ask, though it might be hard for them to remember during busy times. Mandatory onboard announcements will be phased in across Britain's bus network, with nearly all buses set to comply by October 2026.
Q: Do I need to get up from my seat before the bus comes to a complete stop?
A: No, you don't need to stand up from your seat until the bus has fully stopped and for your safety it is recommended to wait. Drivers are trained to ensure that no one is moving towards the doors before they start driving again. Bus companies are also enhancing signs inside the buses to clarify this point.
Q: What if there isn't a seat available and I have to stand?
A: Priority seating for passengers who have difficulty standing is available on all buses and is clearly marked with signs. If these seats are occupied, you have the right to request someone to vacate one; however, we cannot enforce this as the current occupant might need the seat..
Q: Will the bus be too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter?
A: The newer buses feature advanced climate control systems, including a pre-heating function to warm them up before leaving the garage.To avoid standing outside in bad weather, check live bus times in advance to see if there are any delays.
Q: What if I can't reach the stop bell from my seat?
A: A stop bell is used to signal the driver to stop at the next bus stop.
We believe that stop bells should be easily reached from all seating locations in Oxfordshire’s buses. However you can always ask a neighbouring passenger to press it for you or call out to the driver.
Q: Will my mobility scooter fit on the bus?
A: Some mobility scooters may be too long to manoeuvre onto the bus, we recommend referring to the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) Code of Practice for the use and acceptance of mobility scooters on low-floor buses. The code sets out standardised procedures, as well as clear information regarding the types of mobility scooters that can be accommodated on buses.
Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach welcomes visitors to trial their mobility scooters on board any of their vehicles. Please contact them to arrange a trial.
Q: What if I need help getting my wheelchair on/off the bus?
A: Drivers are trained to assist wheelchair users in boarding and alighting the bus.
Q: What if I can't tell the driver where I am going due to a speech impairment?
What if I find it difficult to talk to strangers due to a mental health issue?
A: Drivers receive training to empathise with individuals who may have communication difficulties, this includes those where English is not their first language.
One solution is to write down your destination and preferred ticket type ahead of time and show it to the driver.
If you have a concessionary bus pass you don’t need to tell the driver where you are going, you can just scan it at the ticket machine as you board the bus.
Alternatively, you can avoid speaking by purchasing your ticket in advance through an app and scanning it on-board, or by using 'tap on tap off'.
Tap on tap off is currently available on all Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel, and Reading Buses services – sometimes known as Freeflow. With this method, you simply scan your bank card (or device) when boarding and again when disembarking and the relevant charge will automatically be made to your account at the end of the day.
Q: How can I notify the driver that I need specific assistance?
A: Instead of telling the driver that you require specific assistance you could use a Helping Hand or Journey Assistance card. These cards are provided free of charge from bus operators and contain a brief written instruction for the driver that can be shown upon boarding the bus. For example, ‘please be patient, I am deaf’, ‘please tell me when we reach my stop’ or ‘please help me find a seat’.
Q: Can my guide dog travel with me on the bus and is that chargeable?
A: Guide dogs, hearing for the deaf dogs and accessibility dogs are permitted to travel free on all buses across Oxfordshire.
Other dogs (or a small animal) are usually welcome at the discretion of the driver although may in some cases incur a small charge for travel.
Q: Will taking the bus increase my risk of getting ill or exposure to viruses?
A: Taking the bus is typically a safe and clean way to travel. Since Covid-19, bus operators have enforced strict cleaning measures for passenger safety. Moreover, regularly taking the bus has many health benefits, as walking to and from stops can provide daily exercise and reduced stress when compared to driving.
Q: What if I have concerns for my safety on board due to crime or anti-social behaviour?
A: There are several measures in place to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
Buses are equipped with CCTV cameras, that act as a deterrent to crime and help in monitoring and addressing any incidents that may occur. Drivers are trained to handle various situations, and many buses have direct communication links to control centres, allowing for quick responses to any issues.
