About Next Bus

Next Bus allows customers to determine next bus arrivals for all stops in the Metrobus system. Next Bus technology uses global positioning satellites and advanced computer modeling to track buses on their routes every 120 seconds. Taking into account the actual position of the transit vehicles, their intended stops, and the typical traffic patterns, the system estimates the bus arrivals. These estimates are updated constantly as the vehicles are tracked.

Customers can obtain these continually updated arrival predictions using:

• Desktop computers via a Web interface optimized for standard Internet browsers.
   
• Wireless devices at http://www.wmata.com/mobile optimized for the smaller Internet browsers of cellphones and PDAs.
   
• Phone calls to Metro Customer Service from touchtone phones and cell phones in which they enter the Next Bus identification numbers of stops. For phone access, call 202-637-7000, select the "Next Bus" option and enter the stop ID number using the telephone keypad.
   
• Electronic message signs at Metrorail stations. Thirty two signs are installed in the bus bays at the Pentagon, Anacostia, and Friendship Heights Metrorail stations. There are also 6 LED signs installed on the Arlington/Ballston corridor. The LED signs at the Pentagon and Anacostia also have speakers for visually impaired riders.

For more help on using Next Bus, see the Next Bus frequently asked questions, or view the Next Bus brochure.

Note: Next Bus predictions may not account for temporary delays or detours caused by unexpected service disruptions or schedules adjusted for special-event bus detours. Check Service Disruptions, Press Releases and Bus Detours to see if any of these might affect your trip.