ride the bus

Want to ride but aren’t sure when or where to catch the bus?
Simply call the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, or DART, at 515-283-8100 for step-by-step directions on when and where to catch the bus to work.

You can also view complete route, fare and schedule information at http://www.ridedart.com.

Bus Services

Regular Routes
DART offers nine fixed bus routes from around the metro area. This service operates throughout the day with stops approximately every block along the route.

Cash Fare: $1.25   Monthly Pass: $35.00

Express Routes
Express routes operate from Clive, Windsor Heights, West Des Moines and Urbandale during morning and afternoon peak hours. Express routes make several stops along the route within the community, and then provide non-stop service into the downtown area.

Cash Fare: $1.50   Monthly Pass: $35.00

Commuter Routes
Commuter routes are available from Ankeny and Altoona during the morning and afternoon drive times. Commuters are picked up at park and ride locations and then enjoy non-stop service into downtown.

Cash Fare: $1.50   Monthly Pass: Ankeny - $50.00, Altoona - $50.00

Getting Started

• Find the DART routes in your area. Click here for detailed route, schedule and fare information.
• Calculate the cost. The DART can provide information about various monthly/weekly passes as well as how and when to pay your fare. Armed with that information, check out your total savings by using our commuter calculator.
• Plan ahead. Think about how often you will be able to take the bus. Using transit even every other day will help you save money, allow you to multi-task or relax, and alleviate traffic congestion.
• Check with your employer. If taking transit works well for you, be sure to look into special benefits your employer might provide. Some employers pay for part or all of an employee’s bus pass.

Bike & Ride

Can't make up your mind whether to bike or take the bus to the work? Do both! DART's Bike & Ride racks make it easy for commuters to bike a portion of their commute and then hop on the bus for the rest of the ride. Located on the front of all regular and express-route buses, the bike racks are a fast and easy way to get where you want to go.  For more information on DART's Bike & Ride racks, including video instructions on how to use the racks, visit http://www.ridedart.com. 

Bike & Ride How To:
Loading Your Bike:

1. As the bus puls up, raise your hand to attract the attention of the driver. Make sure the bus is completely stopped before you step in front of the bus.
2. If the rack is in the upright position, squeeze the release handle on the top and lower the rack.
3. Lift your bike into the rack. 
4. When your bike is loaded, lift the support arm up and over the front bike tire as close to the bike frame as possible.
5. Board the bus and pay your fair.

Unloading Your Bike:

1. When approaching your stop, let the bus driver know you will be unloading your bike. Then exit through the front door.
2. Lift the support arm from the bike's front tire and take your bike out of the rack.
3. If the rack is empty, please raise the rack up against the bus. Return to the curb and signal the driver that you and your bike are safely away from the bus.
4. Enjoy your bike ride!