Frequently Asked Questions

  • How early should I call to schedule a ride?

    As soon as you know about your appointment! Calling early gives you the best choice of pickup time. Rides scheduled on a first come first serve basis.

  • How long will the driver wait me?

    On the route bus, the driver will wait up to 30 seconds at your stop. Demand response drivers can wait up to 3 minutes per stop. We suggest being ready 10 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time.

  • Will the driver help me on and off the bus?

    Drivers can assist you with mobility equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. For safety reasons, they can't carry groceries or personal bags, so please plan to bring only what you're able to carry in one trip.

  • What if I need to cancel or my appointment runs late?

    Call dispatch as soon as possible! Early notice helps us adjust schedules and serve other riders.

  • What is the difference between the route bus and the demand response bus?

    The route bus follows a set route with major stops and can deviate up to 3 blocks if you call dispatch ahead of time. The cost is $2.00 for a one-way trip.


    The demand response bus must be scheduled ahead of time, and the bus picks you up at a requested address within city limits. The cost is $2.50 for a one-way trip.

  • How much does it cost to ride SMART Transit as a senior or disabled rider in Austin, Minnesota?

    Fares are very affordable for seniors and riders with disabilities. City demand-response rides are typically around $2.50, fixed or deviated route rides are around $2.00, and shuttles to neighboring towns like Albert Lea run approximately $4.00. Attendants or personal care helpers accompanying a passenger ride free of charge.

  • Can I pay for my SMART Transit rides using a mobile app?

    Yes, SMART Transit accepts fare payment through the Token Transit app, letting riders manage tickets digitally from a smartphone. This is especially convenient for seniors and caregivers who prefer a cashless, paperless option for regular trips.

  • Does a personal care attendant or caregiver ride free on SMART Transit?

    Yes, an attendant or personal care helper accompanying a passenger rides at no charge. This policy makes SMART Transit a practical, cost-effective option for riders with disabilities or medical needs who require assistance during their trip.

  • What is a deviated fixed route and how does it work?

    A deviated fixed route follows a set path through town but can detour up to three-quarters of a mile off the route to pick up or drop off a rider. SMART Transit runs the Purple Route and Red Route in Austin as deviated fixed routes. You can flag down the bus along the route or call ahead to request a nearby stop.

  • What public bus service operates in Austin, Minnesota?

    SMART Transit is the public bus service operating in Austin, Minnesota. It runs scheduled fixed routes through the city as well as demand-response rides that you can book in advance, giving residents flexible options for getting around town.

  • Which bus routes does SMART Transit run in Austin, MN?

    SMART Transit runs the Purple Route and Red Route as its fixed bus routes in Austin, MN. Both operate as deviated fixed routes, meaning they follow a set path but can detour up to three-quarters of a mile to reach a rider who calls ahead or flags down the bus.