Taking your trip on Metro | WMATA

Metro Rail trains stop at every station automatically. You’ll hear a recorded voice announcing the next station as the train approaches it. There are also digital displays in your railcar showing the name of the next station. In some trains, there are digital displays showing all upcoming stops. And there are always maps of the Metro Rail system in every railcar.

On Metro Bus, you’ll hear a recorded voice announcing the next stop as the bus approaches it. There are also digital displays in most buses showing the name of the next stop. If you are concerned you might miss your stop, you can sit or stand near the front of the bus and ask the bus operator to alert you when your stop is coming up. 

Some smartphone travel apps can help you track your trip and alert you when your stop is coming up.

You may have to take more than one train or bus to complete your trip.

To transfer from one Metro Rail line to another, just walk off the first train and onto the second. Your second train may arrive on the same platform, or on a different one, so look at the signs in the station to find out where to go. You don’t have to tap Smart Trip until you leave the station at the end of your Metro Rail trip.

To transfer between Metro Rail and Metro Bus, tap Smart Trip again when you enter the station or board the bus. If you’re eligible for a free transfer or a discounted ride, the discount will be applied automatically.

Reporting an uncomfortable train or bus

Metro trains and buses have cooling and heating equipment, but it may feel warmer or colder as doors open and close.

If your train or bus feels uncomfortable, please note the vehicle number and report the problem by contacting customer service.