Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

ImageFAQs Durham Region Transit & GO Transit Fare Integration
ImageFAQs about riding DRT buses 
ImageFAQs about contacting us

  • How does the Transit Pass Tax Credit apply?

    Starting July 1, 2006, monthly (and longer) transit passes are eligible for a transit pass tax credit.  If a transit pass displays the following information, the pass itself will be sufficient to support a claim for the tax credit:

    • an indication that it is a monthly (or longer duration) pass
    • the date or period for which the pass is valid
    • the name of the transit authority or organization issuing the pass      
    • the amount paid for the pass
    • the identity of the rider, either by name or unique identifier

Durham Region Transit (DRT) passengers will not require a receipt, as the DRT pass itself meets the criteria determined by the CRA, as long as the back of the pass is signed.

Additional information on the tax credit for public transit passes is on the Canada Revenue Agency website at
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/whatsnew/items/transit-e.html  or www.transitpass.ca
A backgrounder is available at: http://cutaactu.ca/en/backgrounder_from_the_canada_revenue_agency

  • What is the U-Pass?
    The U-Pass is included in student tuition allowing full time Durham College, UOIT and Trent students to travel on DRT Bus and GO Bus anywhere within Durham Region at no additional cost.
  • What is fare policy for persons with a visual disability?
    While passengers with a registered CNIB card travel free on conventional DRT and GO Bus in Durham Region,  attendants pay the regular fare.

  

FAQs about riding DRT buses 

  • Can I take luggage and large objects on the bus?
    Space to transport large amounts of luggage and other objects is limited. Passengers wishing to carry on luggage and large objects are advised to travel in non-rush-hour periods. 
  • What is the DRT policy regarding strollers?
    • Operators will request strollers be folded, and explain the safety issues--offering assistance for folding if required
    • Children should be removed from strollers when boarding, children in strollers may be wheeled aboard accessible, low-floor buses
    • When traveling, children should be removed from strollers and seated or held securely on your lap
    • Strollers should be folded if possible - if not folded, brakes must be applied
    • Hold strollers securely or fold and store between seats to keep aisle clear for passengers 
    • Strollers, parcels and large items must be placed to keep the aisles clear and not interfere with other passengers
    • Passengers with strollers are encouraged to move toward the back of the bus or park in the wheelchair accessible area
    • If space is not available for passengers with strollers an on-duty Supervisor is advised
    • Passengers will not be denied service based solely on refusing to fold strollers
  • What is the DRT policy regarding pets? 
    Dogs and cats are not normally allowed on DRT buses.  However, exceptions are made for working dogs (seeing eye, hearing and special assist dogs), dogs on a leash with muzzle and dogs or cats or other small animals confined in a pet transportation crate.
  • What is the DRT policy regarding transfers?
    Transfer is valid only at transfer points between routes ridden in succession as part of one continuous trip from origin to destination (without return) within times show after issue.
    Not to be used for stop-over for the purpose of shopping etc.
    Transfers are issued on request, at the time the fare is paid and are valid only when punched by the issuing operator.  Not transferable.
    Upon request, operator will advise of established transfer points. 
  • Does DRT offer group travel or charters?
    We make every effort to accommodate large groups, but we cannot guarantee sufficient space on regular service buses. A charter may be your best option for guaranteed seating for a group. Adult supervision for groups of children under 12 is required.  Durham Region Transit offers reserved bus charters for your group, family, team, or special event. Transportation must be from within Durham Region to and/or from the Greater Toronto Area.
  • What happens if I lose Durham Region Transit Pass or Ticket?
    DRT does not reimburse for lost, misplaced, or stolen tickets.
  • Are inline skates, roller blades or skateboards allowed?
    Wearing inline skates or skateboarding on DRT buses is not allowed. Passengers will be asked to carry skates and roller blades in the hand rather than over the shoulder for safety reasons.
  • Will my route or schedule change?
    Route changes are made from time to time to improve service. DRT will provide as much notice as possible to avoid inconvenience to riders. Check your bus posters, transit bulletin boards, and local newspaper or visit our www.durhamregiontransit.com Service Alerts for updates.

FAQs about contacting us

  • Can I call one number for general inquires, schedule information, lost articles or concerns for Durham Region Transit?

    DRT Ajax, Pickering 1-866-247-0055 Press 1or 0
    DRT Whitby 1-866-247-0055 Press 2
    DRT Oshawa, Clarington 1-866-247-0055 Press 3
    DRT Uxbridge, Brock, Scugog 1-800-263-1916

    DRT Specialized Services
    Ajax    , Pickering - 905-683-4114
    Oshawa, Whitby, Clarington - 905-725-4000

    For GO Transit call 1-888-438-6646 or visit www.gotransit.com
    For VIA Rail call 1-888-VIA-RAIL (1-888-842-7245)
    For Oshawa VIA Rail Station call 905-723-6792

  • Who do I contact about advertising on DRT buses?
    Advertising for bus interiors and exteriors are provided by:
    DPI Transit Media
    Call: 905-683-9707
    dpiemail@rogers.com
    www.busadvertising.ca

  • Where is DRT Lost & Found?
    All lost articles are returned to and claimed from Customer Service Centres see Lost and Found for more information

  • How do I apply for a job at Durham Region Transit? 
    Choose the Employment Opportunities link from the left side navigation from the www.durhamregiontransit.com home page. 

    ..Updated May 10, 2010