Public Transit

Before you start

Anyone learning a local transit system. The Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal references are examples, not national fare rules.

• Plan both the outward and return trip for the actual day and time. Check the last service, weekend timetables, disruptions and how far you must walk between stops.
• Check the fare for the whole route, including zones, regional trains or another agency. Ask whether your payment method supports transfers and whether the route requires tapping off.
• If travelling with children, a wheelchair, stroller or other accessibility needs, check the agency’s accessible-trip information, elevator status and assistance options before setting out.

Program rules: TransLink. Preparation questions are suggestions, not extra eligibility requirements.

Steps

1. Identify your local transit agency

   Each city runs its own transit. Toronto uses the TTC and the regional PRESTO card; Metro Vancouver uses TransLink and the Compass card; Montreal uses the STM and the OPUS card. Search your city name plus "transit" to find the official agency.
2. Get a fare card

   Check accepted payments before buying a card or pass. The best value depends on trip frequency, discounts and transfer rules. PRESTO, Compass and OPUS are different regional systems, not interchangeable national cards. Confirm where you can buy, reload and use your local card.
3. Plan a route

   Use the transit agency’s official trip planner or a map app. Most agencies publish live arrival times. Transit is frequent in city centres and less frequent in suburbs and evenings; check schedules before late trips.
4. Understand transfers and fares

   Transfer rules depend on the agency, payment method and route. For example, TransLink permits a 90-minute transfer across its main modes with Compass, while a cash bus transfer cannot be used on SkyTrain or SeaBus. Do not apply this rule to other cities. Check each agency when a journey crosses systems.
5. Look for discounted passes

   Monthly passes and discounted fares for students, seniors, and people with low income are common. Some agencies offer newcomer or community passes; check the agency’s reduced-fare page.

What to expect—and where people get stuck

Different payment methods can have different transfer benefits. In Metro Vancouver, for example, a cash bus transfer is not valid on SkyTrain or SeaBus; Compass transfer rules differ. Read the official transfer page before changing modes.

A monthly pass may or may not save money. Compare your expected trips and ask about concessions or income-based programs. Eligibility and application rules are local.