¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇø

General education students should contact their school for information about yellow bus transportation.

Online

By Phone

¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇøs distribute OMNY cards to eligible students at the beginning of each semester, and as needed during the school year.

Student OMNY cards can only be used by the student.

Getting Help

If your card is lost or stolen, let your school know right away. They'll deactivate your old card and get you a replacement.

If your card isn't working when you tap it, ask a station agent or bus operator for help. If your card still doesn't work, return it to your school for a replacement.

Eligibility for ¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇø

General education school bus service is available in grades K - 6 only, for students who meet eligibility requirements. Students in grades 7 - 12 receive school bus service only under special circumstances. Most students use public transportation.

¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇø Exceptions

¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇø Exceptions allow students with special circumstances to get transportation, even if they live close to school. Visit the Office of Pupil ¾ÅÉ«ÉçÇø's website at www.optnyc.org to review these services and complete the application or contact the students school.

Children in Temporary Housing

Students who have been placed in temporary housing receive free transportation, no matter how old they are or where they are living. This applies to all general and special education students in grades K-12.

The Department of Education provides assistance to students who have missed the public school bus to school.

The City provides pre-kindergarten and Early Intervention yellow school bus service for students. Information about the school bus program is available by phone.

Yellow Bus Driver Selection

Every new bus driver is subject to an extensive approval process, medical examination, three letters of reference, abstract of driving record/CDL driver's license, pre-employment drug test, physical performance examination, fingerprinting process, and specialized training.

Bus Driver and Attendant Responsibilities

The driver and attendant are responsible for monitoring student behavior on the bus. The attendant is responsible for giving first aid in emergency situations. The attendant is required to assist the child from the bus to the front door of the school.

Under City Administrative Codes, only special education students are required to wear seat belts.