Public Transport Etiquette in Canada
Unwritten rules and expectations for riding transit in Canada.
Published: 2025-03-25 | Category: Housing & Daily Life
Boarding and exiting: let passengers exit before boarding, move to the back of the bus, have your fare or PRESTO card ready, use rear doors to exit, press the stop request button one stop before yours.
Seating: priority seats (marked in blue) are for seniors, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with small children. Give up your seat if someone needs it more.
Noise and personal space: use headphones for music or videos, keep phone conversations short and quiet, avoid strong-smelling food, maintain personal space.
General courtesy: say excuse me when moving past others, thank the bus driver when exiting (very Canadian), hold doors for people rushing to board, clean up after yourself.
Accessibility: strollers and wheelchairs have designated areas, service animals are always welcome on transit.
Winter tip: stamp snow off your boots before boarding.