Plan a GRTC Trip by Route, Stop ID, Service Type and Real-Time Arrival
GRTC connects Richmond with Henrico and portions of surrounding counties through local buses, express routes, the Pulse Bus Rapid Transit line, LINK microtransit and ADA paratransit.
The fastest way to plan a reliable trip is to match the route and direction first, check the current schedule or PDF, then verify your exact stop with GRTC’s live tracker before leaving.
How to Check a GRTC Bus Schedule Without Using the Wrong Time
Open the current GRTC route page, select the route and direction, then locate the nearest scheduled timepoint. Your actual stop may fall between printed timepoints, so use the stop ID and live tracker for a better arrival estimate.
Choose route
#
Match the route number and route name.
Choose direction
→
Check the destination shown on the bus.
Choose day
D
Weekday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday.
Find stop ID
ID
Use the number printed on the stop sign.
Track arrival
GPS
Confirm the approaching vehicle in real time.
Fare: GRTC’s FY2027 budget continues Open Access service, so regular GRTC buses and Pulse remain fare-free. Do not confuse CARE On-Demand with regular fixed-route service because that specialized on-demand program has separate pricing.
System-hours warning: GRTC describes its local and express network as operating generally from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., but individual routes do not necessarily operate for that entire span. Always check the timetable for your route.
Do not rely on an old screenshot of a GRTC timetable. Several service adjustments were made during 2026, and route-specific pages should be treated as the final source before travel.
July 12, 2026More evening service
Additional evening trips were introduced on Routes 5, 7A and 7B.
July 12, 202695x Brightpoint stop
Richmond/Petersburg Express service now includes Brightpoint Community College.
July 30, 2026Bus color can mislead
Former blue-and-green Pulse buses are being reassigned to local and express routes.
2026 system mapCheck frequency category
GRTC distinguishes frequent, 30-minute, hourly, limited, peak-only and express service.
Look at the destination sign, not just the paint: during GRTC’s fleet transition, a blue-and-green bus may be operating a local or express route instead of Pulse.
The official system map uses different service categories. This matters because a missed bus on a high-frequency corridor and a missed hourly bus create very different waits.
High frequency
About 15 min or better during selected periods
30-minute service
Weekday/Saturday category; evenings may vary
Hourly service
Plan carefully around missed connections
Limited / peak
Not an all-day turn-up-and-go service
Express
Primarily weekday commuter trips
Core + branch rule: some GRTC route branches combine to create more frequent service on a shared core corridor. Do not assume each individual branch operates as frequently as the combined trunk.
Simplified rider map
How the GRTC Network Connects Around Richmond
This diagram is an original orientation visual based on the official network. It is not geographically to scale and does not replace the official system map.
GRTC Pulse BRT
Pulse Schedule: Willow Lawn to Rocketts Landing
Pulse is GRTC’s flagship Bus Rapid Transit service. It runs between Willow Lawn and Rocketts Landing and stops only at station platforms.
5:00–8:59 a.m.
10 min
9:00 a.m.–3:59 p.m.
15 min
4:00–6:59 p.m.
10 min
7:00–11:29 p.m.
15 min
11:30 p.m.–1:00 a.m.
30 min
The chart above shows GRTC’s published weekday Pulse frequency. Weekend service uses different frequency patterns.
Eastbound vs westbound
GRTC states that Pulse platforms on the south side of the road are eastbound and platforms on the north side are westbound.
No stop request needed
Pulse stops at every platform, so riders do not need to pull the stop cord for a normal Pulse station.
Real-time station information
Platforms provide arrival information through overhead signs, audio announcements and station displays.
Track a GRTC Bus by Stop ID, Text Message or Live Map
A printed timetable tells you when a bus is scheduled. GRTC Bus Tracker uses GPS and predictive technology to estimate when the vehicle will actually arrive.
Find the stop number.
GRTC posts a numeric stop ID on every bus stop sign.
Text the stop ID.
Send “GRTC” followed by the stop number to 22827. Example: GRTC 3623.
Read the estimated arrivals.
The reply gives predicted next-bus times for that stop.
Use the live map when necessary.
Bus Tracker can show estimated arrivals and GPS vehicle positions.
Check alerts too.
GPS information does not explain every cancellation, detour or temporary stop relocation.
Best practice for an important trip: compare the scheduled departure, live prediction and active service alert. They answer different questions.
Routes 7A and 7B connect Richmond International Airport with the Downtown Transfer Station. GRTC says buses leave the airport’s upper departure deck every 15 minutes when the two services are considered together.
Richmond International Airport
Board on the upper departure deck.
→
7A or 7B
The routes use different local paths but reach the same downtown destination.
→
Downtown Transfer Station
Connect to multiple GRTC routes through central Richmond.
7A
Nine Mile / Airport service.
7B
Nine Mile / Laburnum / Airport service.
4:00–6:00 a.m. option
GRTC also offers an early-morning airport Uber voucher program between designated GRTC stops and RIC.
Airport planning: leave additional time for flight check-in, security, traffic and a missed connection. A scheduled bus time should not be treated as a guaranteed airport arrival.
GRTC express routes primarily serve weekday commuters. GRTC also states that standing is not permitted on express service, so all express passengers must take a seat.
GRTC System Map PDF: Routes, Frequency Categories and Connections
The official system map is a schematic—not a scale street map. It identifies the fixed-route network, Pulse, express services, LINK zones, service-frequency categories, downtown connections and major destinations.
Official 2026 GRTC System Map
The PDF is labeled effective February 2026-T1. Because GRTC made later July 2026 schedule changes, use the system map for network orientation and the current route page for final departure times.
Why both sources matter: the map helps you understand where services connect. The current route page is better for a particular departure, stop ID or recent schedule change.
PDF schedule decoded
How to Read a GRTC Route Schedule and Timepoint Table
GRTC route PDFs use lettered timepoints. Those letters represent selected major stops; they are not every stop along the route.
1Pick the day
Choose weekday, Saturday or Sunday before reading times.
2Pick the direction
The same route has separate tables for opposite directions.
3Match timepoint letters
Find the map letter nearest your starting stop.
4Read down the column
Follow one scheduled trip through consecutive timepoints.
5Verify live arrival
Printed times are approximate and can change with traffic or weather.
PDF detail worth noticing: GRTC’s Route 4A document states that 4A and 4B combine to provide service every 30 minutes on their shared corridor, while each individual branch is shown at 60-minute intervals.
Route 4A Oakwood / Montrose Timetable Example
This official PDF demonstrates direction tables, weekday/weekend schedules, lettered timepoints, the route map, Pulse connections, bike instructions and schedule-reading guidance.
Match the street direction
Two stops at the same intersection may serve opposite directions.
Use the stop ID
The numeric ID on the sign is the most precise way to request live arrival information.
Check the destination sign
Route number alone may not tell you which branch or terminal the bus is serving.
Arrive five minutes early
GRTC recommends being at the bus stop before the scheduled departure.
Check temporary relocation
Construction, events and road closures can move a stop to another corner.
Do not chase the bus
Wait in a safe boarding location and allow the vehicle to stop completely.
Destination-based planning
Which GRTC Routes Serve Major Richmond-Area Hospitals?
GRTC’s official system map identifies several hospital connections. This is one of the most practical ways to choose a route when the hospital—not the route number—is your starting search.
Hospital / Medical Destination
GRTC Route(s)
Planning Note
Bon Secours Richmond Community Hospital
7A, 7B, 12
Compare directions and stop proximity before choosing the route.
Chippenham Hospital
2B
Check the North Ave/Jahnke/Midlothian direction.
Henrico Doctors’ Hospital
79
Route 79 has had peak-period service restrictions during 2026.
Johnston-Willis Hospital
1A
Check whether the selected trip continues to the needed outer terminal.
Parham Hospital
18
Confirm the correct Henrico Government Center direction.
Retreat Doctors’ Hospital
5, 20, 77, 78
Multiple approaches may allow a better connection.
Richmond VA Medical Center
2C, 20, 86, 87
Compare service frequency and evening span.
Sheltering Arms Institute
19
Use the current West Broad Street timetable.
St. Mary’s Hospital
76, 79
Both routes have had 2026 service limitations; verify current day and time.
VCU Medical Center
Pulse BRT + other downtown routes
Use the downtown route map to choose the closest stop.
Medical appointment rule: leave enough buffer for traffic and transfers. A real-time arrival prediction is still an estimate, not an appointment guarantee.
Using the Downtown Transfer Station
The Downtown Transfer Station is one of GRTC’s central connection points and includes real-time destination boards, powered shelters, public Wi-Fi and seating.
Routes serving throughout the day
GRTC’s 2026 system map identifies Routes 1, 1A, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C, 5, 7A, 7B, 12, 78 and 87 as daytime Transfer Station services.
Evening/Sunday differences
The official system map notes that Routes 3C and 14 serve the Downtown Transfer Station in the evening and on Sunday.
Check the bay
Bay assignments can change. Read station signs and current route information instead of memorizing an old bay number.
Holiday service
GRTC Holiday Bus Schedule
A weekday holiday does not always mean weekday bus service. Some holidays use Sunday service, and several weekday holidays operate without express routes.
GRTC may place buses on alternate snow routes when normal streets become difficult or unsafe. Service can continue while particular streets or stops are temporarily bypassed.
Look for the bus message
A vehicle may display “SNOW ROUTES IN EFFECT” when alternate routing is active.
Expect delays
Snow, ice and slower boarding can make scheduled times less reliable.
Pulse can move lanes
GRTC may move Pulse service from median lanes to curbside travel when center lanes are icy.
Use a safe boarding location
Snow accumulation may prevent the bus from reaching the normal curb.
Check live updates
Use the GRTC website, Bus Tracker, text alerts and official communication channels.
Do not trust yesterday’s detour
Weather routing can change as streets are cleared or conditions worsen.
Choose weekday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday schedule.
Arrive at the stop about five minutes early.
Confirm the stop ID printed on the sign.
Check live arrivals before leaving.
Look at the destination sign before boarding.
Use priority seating appropriately.
Pull the yellow cord or press the stop button before your local-bus stop.
Wait until the vehicle stops before exiting.
Check alerts when your bus is late or missing.
Boarding: GRTC says buses are Zero Fare and riders may enter through any open door. Pulse operates differently at station platforms and stops at every Pulse station automatically.
Accessible transit
Wheelchairs, Mobility Devices, Stop Announcements and Bikes
Wheelchair accessibility
GRTC states that all vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Kneeling buses and ramps
Fixed-route buses can kneel and deploy ramps for accessible boarding.
Audio stop announcements
Buses include speakers that announce upcoming stops and important information.
Priority seating
Front seating is reserved for riders who need it, including people with disabilities and seniors.
Local bus bike rack
Standard racks accommodate two bicycles up to the limits specified by GRTC.
Pulse bike rack
Pulse racks are larger and can accommodate up to three bicycles within GRTC’s dimensional limits.
RVA Bike Share bicycles: GRTC states that these bikes are not permitted on GRTC bicycle racks because of their size and weight.
Trip Voucher Program
GRTC has a temporary Uber voucher program for certain work, medical and education trips affected by temporary schedule reductions.
Do not assume these programs use the same rules: LINK, CARE, CARE On-Demand and temporary Uber voucher programs have different eligibility, booking, service-area and payment requirements.
Verified rider assistance
GRTC Customer Service, Lost & Found and CARE Contacts
Live arrivals
Text GRTC + stop number to 22827, or use Bus Tracker.
Lost Something on a GRTC Bus?
Write down the route.
Include route number, direction and final destination.
Record the trip time.
Approximate boarding and exit times can help identify the vehicle.
Save the stop IDs.
Boarding and exit-stop information narrows the search.
Describe the item.
Give color, brand and distinctive features.
Contact Lost & Found.
Call 804-358-3871 rather than reporting the item to a third-party timetable site.
GRTC Schedule Problems and What to Do
The bus is missing from the tracker
Check whether the vehicle has started its trip, whether GPS data is unavailable and whether GRTC posted a cancellation or detour.
The PDF and live tracker disagree
The PDF is a schedule. The tracker is a prediction. Use active service alerts to understand cancellations or detours.
The bus arrived in unexpected colors
Read the front and side destination signs. Former Pulse-colored vehicles can now operate local or express routes.
Your route does not appear late at night
Individual routes have different spans. The network’s general 5 a.m.–1 a.m. operating window does not mean every route runs until 1 a.m.
Your old Route 88 schedule no longer works
Route 88 was replaced by Broad Rock LINK microtransit. Check the LINK booking process instead.
The stop has moved
Check the Alerts and Detours page for a temporary boarding location and follow signs at the stop.
Your express bus is unavailable on a holiday
Several GRTC holidays use weekday service without express operation.
You are making an important connection
Avoid planning a zero-minute transfer. Build a buffer for traffic, boarding delays and missed trips.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRTC Bus Schedules
How do I check a GRTC bus schedule?
Open GRTC’s official route directory, select the route and direction, choose the correct service day, then use the printed timepoints and live Bus Tracker to estimate arrival at your exact stop.
Are GRTC buses still free in 2026?
Yes. GRTC’s approved FY2027 budget continues Open Access transit, allowing riders to use regular GRTC service without fares.
How do I track a GRTC bus by text?
Text the word GRTC followed by the numeric bus stop ID to 22827. GRTC gives “GRTC 3623” as an example.
How early should I arrive at a GRTC stop?
GRTC recommends arriving about five minutes before the scheduled departure.
Which GRTC buses go to Richmond International Airport?
Routes 7A and 7B serve Richmond International Airport and connect with the Downtown Transfer Station. GRTC says the combined airport service departs from the upper departure deck every 15 minutes.
How often does GRTC Pulse run?
On weekdays, Pulse is scheduled every 10 minutes during morning and afternoon peak periods, every 15 minutes during much of the rest of the day and evening, and every 30 minutes late at night. Weekend patterns differ.
Does every GRTC route run from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.?
No. GRTC describes the overall local and express network as operating within that general span, but individual routes can start later, finish earlier or operate only during selected periods.
What happened to GRTC Route 88?
Route 88 was replaced by Broad Rock LINK on-demand microtransit in 2026.
Can I identify Pulse by the blue-and-green bus color?
Not reliably. In July 2026 GRTC announced that former standard-size Pulse buses were being reassigned to local and express routes. Check the destination sign before boarding.
Do GRTC buses have wheelchair access?
GRTC states that all of its vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible and that fixed-route buses can kneel and deploy ramps.
Can I take a bicycle on a GRTC bus?
GRTC buses have front-mounted bicycle racks. Standard local-bus racks and Pulse racks have different capacities and size limits. RVA Bike Share bicycles are not permitted on the racks.
Does GRTC run normal service on holidays?
Not always. Some holidays use Sunday service, Martin Luther King Jr. Day uses Saturday service, and several weekday holidays operate without express service.
Independent-site disclosure: busschedule.us is not GRTC and does not operate buses, control schedules, provide real-time vehicle data or guarantee arrival times. For a trip happening now, use GRTC’s official tracker and alerts.
