How-to guides

New to riding transit? This section will help you learn everything you need to know using CTA, including buying your fare and getting on the bus or train, and provides helpful tips to make your trip even easier!

Getting there

• Planning a trip & finding your way
  Learn how to find the best route for your trip.
• Making regional transit connections
  Learn more about other transit providers in the area and where you can connect to them. 
• Using Bus Tracker by text (arrivals by SMS)
  Find out how to send a text message to receive estimated arrival times from Bus Tracker. 
• Using Train Tracker by text (arrivals by SMS)
  Find out how to send a text message to receive estimated arrival times from Train Tracker.
• Bus and Train trackers explained
  Learn how to access and understand arrival estimates.

Fares and farecards

• Buying fares (tickets)
  Learn about fare payment methods and where to buy fares.
• Paying fare
  Learn how to pay your fare when boarding a bus or entering a train station.
• Traveling with children
  Learn how to bring kids with you when you ride CTA.
• How to use Ventra (getting/using cards, tickets and more)
  Find extensive how-to guides on the Ventra website with information about using our electronic fare system.

Get on board

• Riding the bus
  Learn where to go to get a bus and get tips on what to do when it arrives.
• Riding the train
  Learn how to find the right place to wait for your train and get tips for what to do when it arrives.
• Bike & Ride
  You can bring your bike with you on CTA buses and trains
  • Bringing your bike on the bus
    All CTA buses are equipped with bicycle racks. Learn how to use them.
  • Bringing your bike on the train
    Most CTA train cars can accommodate bicycles. Learn what you need to know.