FAQs

Where can I find CARTA bus routes and times?

There are multiple ways to find out where and when CARTA can get you to your destination!

1. Check out System Map on RideCarta.com.
   • When using System Maps, simply find your location on the map and look for the nearest route. Then follow it to see if it goes to your destination!
   • If it does not go to your destination, look for connecting routes where you can transfer to complete your trip.
2. Use Route Maps on RideCarta.com.
   • Find the stop closest to you using the map controls in the top left corner of the map, then click the map pin for your chosen bus stop.
   • After finding the appropriate route(s) to take for your trip, follow the stop closest to your destination by clicking its name underneath Today’s Primary Bus Stops to the right of the route map.
   • View Bus Route Schedule underneath the route map for route schedules, primary stops, and stop times.
3. Download “Transit” on the App Store and Google Play.
   • Travel like a true Charlestonian with real-time information in the palm of your hand.
   • Find nearby stops, get updated timetables & service alerts, create favorites lists, and more!
   • Get everything you need to plan your trip in one easy-to-use app.

How can I locate bus stops?

Bus stops are usually located one or two blocks apart. There will be several stops listed (these are called time points), however most routes have more stops on the route. View a complete list of bus stops by route.

How do I identify my bus?

As a bus or shuttle approaches, be sure it is the one you need before boarding. The overhead sign, located above the bus windshield, shows the name and number of the bus route. In addition to the overhead sign, the DASH shuttles also have a color-coded destination sign in the window beside the passenger entrance.

What guidance do you provide riders for boarding, riding and exiting a CARTA regular route bus?

Boarding and riding the bus

• Arrive at your stop at least five (5) minutes before the bus is scheduled.
• Have your fare ready when the bus approaches. Make sure you have the correct fare or pass ready as you board the bus (Please note: Drivers cannot make change).
• If you need to transfer to another route to complete your trip, you will need to purchase a transfer pass which is $.50. Please have this ready when you first board the bus and pay along with your fare. The driver will then issue you a transfer pass to board your next bus to complete your trip, or the driver will specify a certain place to obtain a transfer.

Once you board the bus

• Take your seat as soon as possible and please do not change seats unless absolutely necessary.
• Keep aisles and exits clear. Blocking aisles or exits of the bus can slow down an evacuation during an emergency. Try to keep bags or other items out of the aisles. If you have items with you, please keep them on you, under your seat or in above storage racks when available.
• Please be mindful that the seats are for passengers, especially when there is a high volume of passengers on your bus.

Exiting the bus

• Notify the bus driver when you wish to exit the bus. As your destination approaches, simply pull the stop request cord that runs along the upper part of the window, or push a yellow stop request strip located on the side panels near the windows.
• Use the rear or center door to exit when available. By exiting at the rear door, people waiting to board the bus can enter immediately through the front doors – this helps to keep the bus on schedule.

What is DASH?

DASH stands for Downtown Area Shuttle. DASH shuttles can connect you with all of Charleston’s attractions, from restaurants and local beaches to shopping & entertainment venues, hotels, and historic sites. No need to hunt for parking when you can just hop on the DASH at one of our many conveniently located bus stops throughout downtown!

How is DASH different from regular CARTA buses?

One of the major differences between DASH and regular CARTA buses is that DASH is free to ride! Skip the fare and dash around downtown Charleston.

DASH shuttles also have what is called a “low floor”, or no steps to enter the vehicle, which makes it easier for everyone to board. This helps speed up the boarding process, which keeps the shuttle on schedule. In addition, the shuttles have cushioned seats and panoramic windows for fantastic visibility of the downtown area, so passengers can ride in style.

How much does it cost to ride DASH?

It is worth saying twice. DASH shuttles are totally FREE to all residents and visitors.

What is the seating capacity?

The vehicle seats 24 seated passengers and an additional 24 standing. DASH buses have the same seating capacity as CARTA buses; however, more floor space allows for more standing room. Learn more about the DASH here.

Does CARTA promote rider etiquette?

These are CARTA’s Rules of the Road to Remember:

1. Do not carry open cans or bottles on the bus. They are a safety hazard.
2. Do not play radios (without headphones) on the bus. If you do have headphones, please use at a volume that does not disturb other passengers or the driver.
3. Do not smoke on the vehicles.
4. Do not bring alcoholic beverages on board the buses.
5. Do not use profanity aboard the vehicles.
6. Animal Policy–Police dogs, guide, signal or service dogs are the ONLY pets permitted on CARTA buses.
7. Courtesy Seats–The seats located in the front of each bus and trolley behind the driver are reserved for senior citizens and disabled passengers.
8. Lost and Found–Lost items are turned in at the CARTA Operations Center in North Charleston, available by calling (843) 724-7420; the route name, number, time and direction of travel are helpful when calling.

What accessibility services does CARTA provide?

All CARTA fixed route buses are wheelchair accessible and meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
If you have difficulty getting to the bus stop and/or riding fixed-route buses, CARTA also offers para-transit services (Tel-A-Ride) for eligible customers with disabilities and are unable to use regular fixed route services.
All CARTA-sponsored public meetings and events are made accessible to people with disabilities. If you need assistance in participating in this meeting or event due to a disability as defined under the ADA, please call the CARTA ADA Coordinator at (843) 529-0400 Ext. 202 or e-mail jburns@ridecarta.com at least three (3) business days prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request an accommodation.

Additional Accessibility Services

• Audiotape & Braille
  When requested we can provide CARTA materials in accessible formats. Please email askcarta@ridecarta.com or call (843) 724-7420 for assistance.
• TTY/TTD
  Need special assistance by phone? Call our TTY/TTD phone number, (843) 747-1499.

What equipment do CARTA buses have to accommodate riders with disabilities?

CARTA is committed to making our public transit system increasingly accessible to members of the community with various disabilities. We make riding easy with these extra bus features:

• Lifts accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
• Buses lower or “kneel” to the curb to make boarding easy.
• Priority seating is available for customers with disabilities. These seats are conveniently located at the front of the bus. Bus operators will secure wheelchairs and scooters.
• Service animals are welcome.

Other Wheeled Items:

Other wheeled items, i.e. skateboards, scooters, or roller blades/skates may be carried aboard. These items should be stowed in their own bag or held in the riders lap. Small luggage that can be stowed safely under the seat, or otherwise controlled by the passenger without obstructing the aisle, may be permitted on a space available basis only. At no time should the items be stowed on the floor of the bus as to avoid them rolling around while the bus is in motion.

At no time will wagons, tricycles, or other wheeled devices that do not qualify as an ADA mobility device, be permitted on CARTA vehicles.

How much are fares for riders with disabilities?

Fares for riders with disabilities are only $0.75 all day, every day with valid CARTA Card. You must have a CARTA ID Card issued by SC Works (formerly Trident One Stop) to qualify. For more information, see Special Rates.

How to get a CARTA disability ID card?

Make sure you have a photo ID and proof of disability before applying.

• Provide the accepted documents:
  • Medicare Card (required)
  • Social Security Award Letter or Veteran Disability Award Letter (at least 1 is required)
• Apply in person:
  • SC Works (formally known as Trident One Stop)
    1930 Hanahan Road
    North Charleston, SC 29406
• Request an application by mail:
  • Call (843) 574-1800 or (843) 574-1810

Do you provide similar services for visitors who need public transportation?

If you’re visiting Charleston and are disabled, you can ride CARTA at the discounted rate when you show your Medicare Card, or your Disabled ID Card from your home transit system. A visitor to the Charleston area may also use Tel-A-Ride if he or she is certified by another transit system or is found to be eligible for the service in Charleston. Likewise, a Tel-A-Ride patron may be eligible for similar service in other cities. Your Tel-A-Ride identification card will certify your eligibility for paratransit service in Charleston. Questions? Email askcarta@ridecarta.com or call (843) 724-7420.

Where can CARTA take senior citizens?

CARTA goes to most hospitals, libraries, grocery stores, shopping centers, and service agencies throughout the Charleston area. Find the route that works best for you!

What discounts do you offer senior citizens?

Senior citizens ride for a discounted fare of $1 during all hours of service. Seniors are considered 55+. Drivers may request proof of age. Medicare cards or I.D. card with date of birth will serve as identification for the fare.

What can I do if I want to ride, but I’m not sure how?

Simply call (843) 724-7420 and let our operations staff pair you with a CARTA Ambassador! Learn the ropes and make a new friend.

Are pets allowed on CARTA vehicles?

Guide, signal, and service animals & police dogs are the ONLY pets permitted on CARTA vehicles.

How does CARTA handle media requests?

Since Charleston’s mass transit system is governed by eight-member governments and by regulations of the Federal Transportation Authority, CARTA has a responsibility to consider any media requests and handle them as the system deems appropriate, on a case-by-case basis. CARTA asks that all media outlets respect the rights of bus system users, drivers, and other staff to wait for and ride the bus system without disturbance. All media requests should be directed to Matthew Spath, Communications Director, BCDCOG, (843) 529-2715 or matthews@bcdcog.com