DC Metro Bus Schedule: Routes, Times & Stops
DC Metrobus operates public bus routes across Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia. To check a DC Metro Bus schedule, find the current route number, choose your travel day and direction, then check the published timetable and live arrival at your exact stop.
In 2026, most DC Metrobus routes use the new C and D designations introduced by WMATA’s Better Bus network. Popular corridors include Georgia Avenue, 16th Street, Pennsylvania Avenue, North Capitol Street and Georgetown connections.
This guide covers the updated route numbers, actual timetable examples, first and last bus planning, $2.25 fares, SmarTrip and contactless payment, two-hour transfers, overnight buses, maps, accessible boarding and official live tracking.
Where Can I Find the Current DC Metro Bus Schedule?
Use the official WMATA Maps and Schedules directory to select a route such as D40, D60 or C85. Open its timetable, choose weekday, Saturday or Sunday service, and find the scheduled time for your stop and direction.
For additional help with the regional WMATA system, including Maryland and Northern Virginia service, see our WMATA route finder, schedules and real-time bus guide. It explains how to identify routes across all three jurisdictions.
DC Metrobus Route Numbers Changed: What Riders Need to Know
WMATA launched the Better Bus network on June 29, 2025, introducing a new route-numbering system and changes to stops, route paths and frequency. Additional service changes took effect on December 14, 2025 and September 13, 2026.
September 13, 2026: D10 and D1X Rerouted Across the National Mall
WMATA’s September 2026 service update included two important District routes:
Now operates via 4th Street between Pennsylvania Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW when crossing the National Mall area.
Now operates via 7th Street between Pennsylvania Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW.
Read WMATA’s September 2026 service-change announcement.
How to Convert an Old DC Bus Route Number
- Open WMATA Better Bus.
- Find the route-lookup or new-network information.
- Enter the former route number or search your old corridor.
- Review the suggested current route or routes.
- Confirm the destination and current stopping pattern.
- Open the updated route timetable and map.
- Check whether your previous stop is still served.
DC Metrobus Rider Guide
Popular DC Metrobus Routes and Destinations
WMATA’s current District bus directory contains C and D routes serving neighborhoods, transit stations, business districts, hospitals, universities and regional connections.
7th Street–Georgia Avenue
Connects the Archives and central DC area with Georgia Avenue-Petworth and Silver Spring.
Official D40 timetable PDF16th Street Corridor
Serves the 16th Street NW corridor between downtown Washington and the Silver Spring area.
Find D60 timetableNorth Capitol Street
Provides connections involving Fort Totten, Brookland-CUA and the downtown DC corridor.
Find D30 timetablePennsylvania Avenue
Serves Pennsylvania Avenue connections, with the September 2026 National Mall reroute.
Find D10 timetablePennsylvania Avenue Limited
Limited-stop service using the updated 7th Street crossing of the National Mall area.
Find D1X timetableNorthwest DC Connections
Serves the northwest DC and Foggy Bottom corridor. Confirm the current terminal and stop pattern.
Find C85 timetableAdditional Current DC Metrobus Route Numbers
WMATA’s published District route directory also includes C11, C13, C15, C17, C21, C23, C25, C26, C27, C29, C31, C33, C35, C37, C41, C43, C51, C53, C55, C57, C61, C63, C71, C75, C77, C81, C83, C87, C91, D20, D24, D30, D32, D34, D36, D44, D50, D60, D70, D72, D74, D80, D82, D90, D94 and D96, among other services.
For a city-specific overview including downtown buses, the National Mall, major stations and Washington stop locations, use our Washington DC bus schedule and stop-finding guide.
DC Metro Bus Times: Weekday Departures and Travel Time
WMATA publishes timetable PDFs with individual trips and major timepoints. The table below uses the official D40 weekday northbound timetable, effective December 14, 2025, to demonstrate how departures progress between downtown Washington and Silver Spring.
Route D40: Archives to Silver Spring
| Stop / Timepoint | Trip 1 | Trip 2 | Trip 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9th St NW / Constitution Ave NW — Archives | 7:00 AM | 7:12 AM | 7:24 AM |
| 7th St NW / H St NW | 7:05 AM | 7:17 AM | 7:29 AM |
| Georgia Ave / Florida Ave NW | 7:16 AM | 7:28 AM | 7:40 AM |
| Georgia Avenue-Petworth | 7:26 AM | 7:38 AM | 7:50 AM |
| Georgia Ave / Kennedy St NW | 7:35 AM | 7:47 AM | 7:59 AM |
| Georgia Ave / Blair Rd | 7:47 AM | 7:59 AM | 8:11 AM |
| Silver Spring — 200 Level | 7:54 AM | 8:06 AM | 8:18 AM |
These are selected scheduled weekday northbound D40 trips, not the complete timetable or live arrival predictions. The listed departure is from the Archives timepoint rather than every downtown stop. Check the latest PDF effective date before using these examples for an actual trip.
D40 Scheduled Stop Progression
7:00 AM
7:05 AM
7:16 AM
7:26 AM
7:35 AM
7:47 AM
7:54 AM
The diagram represents the order and scheduled times of one D40 trip. It is not a geographically scaled map.
Open the original WMATA D40 timetable PDF.
How Often Does a DC Metrobus Run?
WMATA’s high-frequency network maps identify routes scheduled at intervals of approximately 12 minutes or less or 20 minutes or less during the mapped daytime service period, generally 7 AM–9 PM. Other routes may operate less frequently.
The D40 example above shows selected departures 12 minutes apart during that morning period. This does not mean every route or D40 departure operates exactly every 12 minutes all day.
DC Metrobus Weekend, Holiday and First/Last Bus Times
A bus route may have separate Monday–Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holiday tables. Some routes maintain frequent weekend service; others operate less frequently or do not operate on certain days.
Which Timetable Detail Matters Most?
| Your question | Where to look | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| What is the first bus? | First trip serving your stop and direction. | Using the first terminal departure. |
| What is the last bus? | Last trip serving your destination, including branches. | Assuming all buses finish at the same terminal. |
| Does it run Sunday? | Sunday timetable or official trip planner. | Using a Saturday screenshot. |
| What about holidays? | Current WMATA holiday advisory. | Assuming an ordinary weekday schedule. |
| How long is the ride? | Matching departure and arrival from one scheduled trip. | Combining times from two different buses. |
Does DC Metrobus Run 24 Hours?
Yes, selected Metrobus routes operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. WMATA publishes a separate 24/7 Bus Service Map for DC. However, not all routes run overnight, and the route path or stops can change during late-night operating periods.
These examples appear in WMATA’s DC 24/7 network information. The map includes additional corridors and special service patterns. The 24/7 designation does not mean a bus arrives every few minutes overnight.
How to Check a Bus After Midnight
- Open the official DC 24/7 bus map.
- Identify the route serving your destination.
- Check whether the route uses a different overnight pattern.
- Open the PDF timetable for your travel date.
- Find the stop and correct after-midnight departure.
- Check busETA for a current arrival prediction.
- Plan the return trip before you travel.
View the official DC 24/7 Metrobus map PDF.
Major Washington, DC Metrobus Stops and Transfer Areas
Many Metrobus routes serve Metrorail stations, city neighborhoods and connections into Maryland or Virginia. The following places are useful transit landmarks, but they do not all share the same bus routes.
Connection area for Metrorail, Amtrak, MARC, VRE and intercity transportation. Confirm the specific bus stop outside the station.
Important downtown bus and rail interchange. Some buses use stops on nearby streets rather than a single common platform.
Major downtown rail connection and nearby bus stops, with possible detours during events.
Important connection for the Georgia Avenue corridor, including D40 service.
Bus and Metrorail interchange serving northern DC routes, including North Capitol Street connections.
Maryland connection for Metrobus, Metrorail Red Line and Montgomery County Ride On.
How to Find the Correct Stop
- Search your destination using WMATA Rider Tools.
- Choose a current Metrobus route.
- Check the destination or direction of travel.
- Find the stop name and stop code.
- Check whether boarding is on the opposite side of the street.
- Review available stop-location and accessibility information.
- Check today’s alerts for a temporary stop move.
DC Metrobus Map: Which Map Should You Use?
WMATA publishes different maps for different purposes. Choosing the right one saves time when comparing neighborhood routes, frequent services and overnight transportation.
Shows the main current Metrobus routes serving Washington and regional connections.
Open bus system mapsHighlights corridors planned for shorter waits during the stated daytime service period.
Find frequency mapsShows selected DC routes providing overnight transportation and any special late-night patterns.
Open overnight mapPractical Example: Downtown to Silver Spring
This is a rider workflow diagram, not an actual geographic transit map.
WMATA’s official Trip Planner can compare bus, rail and combined journeys, including walking distance, estimated fare and departure options.
How Much Is the DC Metro Bus Fare?
WMATA’s 2026 published fare table lists a flat $2.25 regular Metrobus fare. This applies to normal routes and limited-stop X routes. Four designated Virginia express routes have a higher fare.
Do Limited-Stop X Buses Cost More?
No, not solely because of the X suffix. A route such as D1X or D6X is a limited-stop bus and generally uses the standard $2.25 fare. The specifically designated express routes F19, F28, F81 and F83 use the separate $4.80 adult fare.
Are Children and DC Students Free?
- Up to two children aged four or younger may ride free with each fare-paying adult.
- Children aged five and older normally require a valid fare unless an applicable program covers the trip.
- Eligible DC school students can ride Metrobus and Metrorail using the DC Kids Ride Free program.
- Eligible seniors and riders with qualifying disabilities may receive reduced fares.
How to Pay on a DC Metrobus
1. SmarTrip Card
Prepare a physical SmarTrip card with the needed balance or valid fare product.
- Have the card ready.
- Board at the designated entrance.
- Tap the fare reader.
- Check confirmation.
- Use the same card for eligible transfers.
2. Contactless Payment
WMATA’s Tap. Ride. Go. system accepts supported contactless credit/debit cards and mobile wallets.
- Prepare an accepted contactless method.
- Tap the fare reader on boarding.
- Keep using that same card or device.
- Check transfer discounts if connecting to rail.
3. Exact Cash
Cash is currently accepted on Metrobus.
- Check the correct fare.
- Prepare exact bills or coins.
- Enter through the boarding door.
- Pay at the farebox.
Bus operators cannot provide change.
Open WMATA’s payment instructions, updated September 28, 2026.
DC Metrobus Free Transfers and Metrorail Discounts
WMATA provides transfer benefits when an eligible SmarTrip or supported contactless payment method is used within the required time window.
| Transfer | Published benefit | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Metrobus → Metrobus | Free eligible transfers within two hours. | Use the same qualifying payment method. |
| Metrobus → Metrorail | $2.25 discount toward rail fare. | Actual rail fare may exceed the discount. |
| Metrorail → Metrobus | $2.25 bus-fare discount. | Standard bus fare can be fully covered. |
| Metrobus → Express | Eligible credit may apply. | Higher express fare may require a supplement. |
| Metrobus → Regional operator | Depends on agency. | Regional partner discounts currently require SmarTrip. |
Metrobus vs Montgomery County Ride On
Some DC–Maryland trips connect with Montgomery County Ride On at Silver Spring, Takoma, Bethesda or other regional hubs. Ride On’s regular county buses currently use a zero-fare policy, which differs from WMATA’s $2.25 Metrobus fare.
For a detailed explanation of Ride On route selection, zero-fare boarding, Flash service, stop tracking and local connections, read our Montgomery County Ride On bus schedules and transfer guide.
Takoma to Silver Spring: Route 12 Connection
Some riders traveling around the DC–Maryland border may find Ride On Route 12 useful. It connects Takoma Station and Silver Spring Station through Montgomery County neighborhoods rather than operating as a DC C/D Metrobus route.
Our Route 12 guide covering Takoma and Silver Spring helps identify that specific Ride On service among several unrelated Route 12 buses in other cities.
How to Track a DC Metro Bus Live
WMATA offers busETA, Rider Tools and the Metro Pulse app for stop-level arrival information and service alerts.
Search by route, bus stop code or street address.
Open busETASave routes and stops, view live arrivals and receive service information.
Get Metro PulseFind nearby service, trip options, stop accessibility information and alerts.
Learn about Rider ToolsHelpful Stop-Level Features
WMATA’s newer Rider Tools can show arrivals for multiple routes serving one stop, route and vehicle tracking, alerts, stop-location information and accessibility details where available.
This is especially useful at large intersections or transit centers where the same location name can refer to several separate stops.
Does the DC Circulator Still Run in 2026?
No. DC Circulator ended service after December 31, 2024. The District Department of Transportation confirmed the closure and directed passengers to other transit options.
National Mall and Georgetown Travel Tip
Old visitor guides may still recommend Circulator service between Georgetown, Union Station, the National Mall or downtown attractions. These instructions are outdated.
Instead, enter your actual attraction or street address into the WMATA Trip Planner. Choose a current Metrobus or Metrorail itinerary and check the walking distance to the attraction entrance.
DC Metrobus Delays, Detours and Stop Closures
Metrobus routes in Washington can be affected by road construction, demonstrations, federal security restrictions, festivals, sporting events, weather and temporary stop relocations.
Relevant 2026 Example: D44 Grant Circle Detour
WMATA published a D44 detour for construction related to the DDOT Grant Circle Safety Improvement Project, with a stated October 12–November 30, 2026 period.
Because the details of temporary detours can change, use the route-specific alert page for current boarding instructions rather than assuming every D44 stop in the work zone is available.
How to Check Bus Alerts
- Open WMATA Alerts and Advisories.
- Filter for bus service.
- Select your route number.
- Check when the alert starts and ends.
- Review affected directions and stops.
- Find any temporary replacement stop.
- Check the stop’s new arrival prediction.
DC Metrobus Wheelchair Access and Accessible Stop Planning
WMATA states that all Metrobus vehicles are accessible. Buses can kneel or lower and have ramps or lifts, priority seating and mobility-device securement spaces.
Why the Bus Stop Itself Matters
A wheelchair-accessible bus can still be difficult to board at a stop with a damaged sidewalk, missing curb ramp, obstructed path or temporary construction closure.
WMATA’s stop-information tools can provide details such as curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, sidewalk conditions, nearby signals, stop locations and street-level views where available.
Accessible Journey Checklist
- Choose the correct route and direction in WMATA Rider Tools.
- Open the boarding stop’s detail page.
- Review available stop accessibility information.
- Check whether the sidewalk and crossing are usable.
- Check current stop closures or relocations.
- Review Metrorail elevator status if transferring to rail.
- Contact WMATA assistance if the boarding arrangement remains uncertain.
MetroAccess Paratransit
MetroAccess is WMATA’s eligibility-based door-to-door shared-ride transportation service for riders whose disabilities prevent them from using regular fixed-route bus or rail service.
Eligibility, reservations, fares and service boundaries are separate from ordinary Metrobus rules.
Read Metrobus accessibility features and stop-access guidance.
DC Metro Bus Problems and How to Solve Them
Use Better Bus to identify the replacement route. Verify its direction and stops because the new service may not exactly follow the former route.
Check whether the vehicle is an X limited-stop route or whether your stop is temporarily closed. A similar route number does not guarantee the same stop pattern.
Check the published schedule and service alerts. Missing GPS information or a temporary tracking problem does not necessarily indicate cancellation.
Check the 24/7 map and the exact stop timetable. Verify the destination of the overnight trip before assuming it serves your whole route.
Check the two-hour transfer window, whether you used the same eligible payment method and whether the train fare exceeded the $2.25 credit.
Use Rider Tools to find the current stop location and walking route. Large stations can have several exits and bus boarding areas.
WMATA Customer Service
Route, schedule, fare and rider assistance.
WMATA’s published transit information number.
WMATA lists additional assistance options for TTY users and provides online customer support. For an immediate emergency, use the appropriate emergency service rather than a timetable help line.
How to Find Your Exact DC Metrobus Departure
- Open WMATA Maps and Schedules. Visit the official bus schedule directory.
- Choose District of Columbia. Look under C and D routes if your bus is listed as a District route.
- Find your route number. Select the correct current route, such as D40 or D60.
- Open the timetable PDF. Check the effective date and route designation.
- Choose your service day. Read the weekday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday section.
- Check your direction. Match the destination shown on the bus headsign.
- Find the nearest timetable timepoint. Identify your boarding location or the closest listed major stop.
- Read one scheduled trip. Follow the same row across the timetable to estimate the planned travel time.
- Open busETA or Rider Tools. Enter the exact stop code or select your stop to see current arrivals.
- Review service alerts. Confirm detours, stop relocations, accessibility conditions and payment before boarding.
DC Metro Bus Boarding Checklist
- Confirm your current post-2025 route number.
- Check whether the route is C, D, A, F, M or P.
- Choose the correct bus direction and destination.
- Open the latest official timetable.
- Select weekday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday service.
- Check the first or last trip at your actual stop.
- Confirm the stop code and boarding side.
- Review service alerts and temporary detours.
- Check busETA or Metro Pulse before leaving.
- Prepare SmarTrip, contactless payment or exact cash.
- Confirm transfer credits and any rail fare difference.
- Check accessible boarding and return service.
DC Metrobus Schedules, Maps, Fares & Live Tools
These are the primary WMATA and DDOT sources used for this guide. Open the relevant link and follow the instructions to verify the information needed for your journey.
Find current District, Maryland and Virginia routes, timetable PDFs, system maps and 24/7 coverage.
View bus schedulesFind new route names, system changes, current route areas and old-route conversion help.
Check route changesIncludes the D10 and D1X National Mall changes and selected Maryland/Virginia route adjustments.
Read official 2026 updatePublished weekday and weekend departure tables for the 7th Street–Georgia Avenue corridor.
Open D40 timetable PDFSearch a route, stop code or address for available bus arrival predictions.
Track a busOfficial app for nearby transit, live arrivals, favorite routes, Trip Planner and alerts.
Get Metro PulseRegular, limited-stop, Express, reduced fares, cash, contactless payment and transfers.
Check current fare rulesCurrent and planned bus detours, service delays, stop relocations and accessibility notices.
Check service alertsWMATA’s official overnight service map, with route patterns for selected late-night buses.
Open 24/7 bus mapRamps, lifts, kneeling buses, stop-accessibility information and paratransit guidance.
Check accessible transitIndependent-site disclosure: BusSchedule.us is not operated by WMATA, DDOT or Montgomery County. This website does not operate buses, set fares, control live arrival predictions or guarantee scheduled departures.
DC Metro Bus Schedule FAQs
1. Where can I find the DC Metro Bus schedule?
Use WMATA’s official Maps and Schedules page. Select the current bus route, direction and service day, then open its timetable. For your exact stop, check WMATA busETA or Rider Tools.
2. How much is a DC Metrobus ride in 2026?
The regular full fare is $2.25 for regular and limited-stop Metrobus routes. Eligible reduced-fare riders pay $1.10. Designated Virginia express routes F19, F28, F81 and F83 charge $4.80 for standard adult travel.
3. What time do DC Metro buses start running?
Start times depend on the route, travel direction, service day and boarding stop. Some routes operate 24 hours, while others start in the morning and have more limited operating periods.
4. What time is the last DC Metrobus?
There is no single system-wide last bus. WMATA publishes first and last trips by route and direction. Use the current timetable to find the final trip serving your actual stop and destination.
5. Does DC Metrobus run 24 hours?
Selected routes provide 24-hour service, including corridors identified on WMATA’s official DC 24/7 map such as D30, D40, D50 and D60. Overnight frequency and route patterns can differ from daytime service.
6. Why did DC Metrobus route numbers change?
WMATA introduced its Better Bus network on June 29, 2025. Routes were renamed and some stopping patterns, schedules and operating paths changed. DC routes generally use C or D prefixes under the current system.
7. Can I pay cash on a DC Metrobus?
Yes. WMATA currently accepts exact cash on Metrobus. SmarTrip cards and supported contactless bank cards or mobile wallets can also be used. Drivers cannot provide change.
8. Are DC Metrobus transfers free?
Eligible Metrobus-to-Metrobus transfers are free within two hours when using a qualifying SmarTrip or contactless payment method. Bus-to-rail and rail-to-bus trips receive a $2.25 fare discount under the applicable transfer rules.
9. How can I track my DC Metro bus live?
Open WMATA busETA, Rider Tools or Metro Pulse. Enter your current route number, select the travel direction and choose your exact stop or stop code to view available arrival predictions and service alerts.
10. Does the DC Circulator still operate?
No. DC Circulator service ended after December 31, 2024. Travelers should use WMATA’s current Metrobus and Metrorail Trip Planner to find active alternatives for downtown, Georgetown, Union Station and National Mall trips.