Monterey MST Bus Schedule Guide for All Routes, Maps, Stops & Live Times
Use this monterey mst bus schedule guide to find MST bus routes, Monterey and Salinas system maps, Route List links, MST RealTime arrivals, stop numbers, fares, contactless Tap2Ride payment, service alerts, trolley information and official trip-planning resources before you ride.
Monterey-Salinas Transit serves Monterey County communities with local, regional, express, trolley, university, military, South County and mobility services. The right schedule depends on your route number, service day, stop number, direction and whether your trip is local, regional, express, trolley or paratransit.
✅ Quick Answer: Best Way to Find a Monterey MST Bus Schedule
The fastest way to find the correct MST bus schedule is to open the official MST Route List, choose your line number, then check the route map, stop list and schedule for your direction. Use MST RealTime when you need the next bus arrival at a specific stop.
MST RealTime works through the Transit App, text message, phone and Google Maps. If you are at a stop, look for the four-digit MST bus stop number on the RealTime sign or sticker. You can text Next plus the four-digit stop number to 25370, or call 1-888-MST-BUS1 and use the RealTime option.
Use the Route List for Line 1, 20, 23, 25, 28, 41, 42, JAZZ, Trolley and more.
Route HelpUse the four-digit stop number for MST RealTime text, phone or online arrival checks.
Stop HelpUse MST RealTime, Transit App or Google Maps for next-arrival information.
Live HelpCheck regular, discount, GoPass, GoCard, cash and contactless payment rules.
Fare HelpMonterey-Salinas Transit Schedule Overview for Local and Regional Riders
A Monterey MST bus schedule search can mean a short Monterey Peninsula trip, a Salinas route, a South County route, a Gilroy connection, a JAZZ line, Monterey Trolley service, a college route, military access service or a mobility-service trip. That is why the official route number matters.
MST’s route network includes Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Carmel Valley, Sand City, Marina, Salinas, Castroville, Watsonville, Gonzales, Soledad, Greenfield, King City, Gilroy, Paso Robles and several special service areas. Some routes are frequent local lines; others are longer regional routes where return-trip timing matters more.
The safest planning method is simple: start from MST’s official Route List, open your route page, confirm the direction, check the service day, use the system map if you need a transfer, and then use MST RealTime for your exact stop.
MST All Routes: Route List, Maps, Salinas, Monterey, South County and JAZZ Lines
The official MST Route List is the best starting point for line-by-line schedules. MST lists routes such as Line 1 Monterey – PG via Asilomar, Line 2 Monterey – PG via David Avenue, Line 5 Monterey – Carmel Rancho, Line 7 Monterey – Ryan Ranch, Line 8 Monterey – CHOMP, Lines 17 and 18 between Sand City and Marina, Line 20 Monterey – Salinas, Line 23 and 23X Salinas – King City, Line 25 Salinas – CSUMB, Lines 28 and 29 toward Watsonville, Salinas local lines, South County lines, JAZZ A, JAZZ B, Del Rey Oaks Shuttle and the Monterey Trolley.
How to Search MST Routes by Number
If you know the route number, open the Route List and choose that line. This is the cleanest way to avoid mixing up local routes, express routes, regional routes and trolley service. Each route page is designed to show the relevant map and schedule information for that line.
How to Use MST System Maps
MST System Maps include a Regional Map, Monterey Peninsula Map, Salinas Map, Downtown Monterey Map, Monterey Transit Plaza Map, Downtown Salinas Map, Salinas Transit Center Map, Marina Transit Exchange Map, Sand City Map, Carmel Valley Village Map and South County Map. Use these maps when you do not know the route number or need to plan transfers.
Service Change Notes
MST’s route pages can include service change summaries. A recent official summary lists changes effective February 14, 2026, including updates to Lines 17/18, Lines 23/23X, Line 31 and Line 44. Because service changes can affect stop locations and timing, check the route page before relying on previous travel habits.
🚌 Monterey Peninsula
Use Lines 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, JAZZ A, JAZZ B, Trolley and related peninsula maps.
🏙️ Salinas Area
Use Lines 40 through 49, 59, 61 and Salinas Transit Center map tools.
🌄 Regional Routes
Use Lines 20, 23, 23X, 28, 29, 84 and South County maps for longer trips.
MST Bus Stops, Four-Digit Stop Numbers and Correct Boarding Direction
The exact stop matters because MST RealTime depends on the stop number. At many MST stops, the four-digit stop number is posted on the round RealTime flag sign or on a sticker on the metal pole. This number helps you get arrivals by text, phone, website tools or app.
Use the Four-Digit Stop Number
When you are at a stop, look for the four-digit MST bus stop number. If you do not see the round RealTime sign, check the pole sticker. MST also explains that stop numbers can be found on the website by selecting a bus line and using the start point or destination bus stop number dropdowns.
Check the Direction Before Waiting
Many MST routes serve both directions along the same corridor. A stop across the street may be for the opposite direction. Before waiting, confirm whether you are going toward Monterey, Salinas, Marina, Carmel, Pacific Grove, King City, Watsonville, Gilroy, South County or another destination.
Transit Centers and Transfer Points
At larger places such as Salinas Transit Center, Monterey Transit Plaza and Marina Transit Exchange, check the exact gate, bay, stop number or map. A route may have several nearby stops, and the wrong boarding point can cause missed connections.
- Find the four-digit MST stop number at the stop or on the MST route page.
- Confirm the route number and travel direction before checking arrivals.
- Use system maps for transit centers, downtown areas and transfer points.
- Check service alerts before relying on an old stop location.
- Arrive at least 5 minutes early, especially when using RealTime estimates.
MST RealTime: Live Bus Arrival by Text, Phone, Transit App and Google Maps
MST RealTime gives riders next bus arrival information by app, text, phone and map tools. It uses GPS data when a bus is close enough for a reliable prediction. If the bus is more than 15 minutes away, MST explains that the result may show the scheduled arrival time instead of a GPS-based prediction.
Text MST RealTime
To check by text, type Next plus the four-digit stop number and send it to 25370. For example, MST’s instructions show the format “Next 9103.” If a stop serves several lines, MST explains that you can add a hyphen and route abbreviation to narrow the result.
Call MST RealTime
To check by phone, call 1-888-MST-BUS1 or 1-888-678-2871. Choose the RealTime option and enter your four-digit stop number. MST also offers prompts if you do not know the stop number.
Use the Transit App and Google Maps
MST says RealTime arrival information is available in the free Transit App. Riders can also use Google Maps transit view to click nearby bus symbols and see arrival and departure information for routes serving that stop.
MST Fares, GoPass, GoCard, Cash, Contactless Tap2Ride and Transfers
MST fare rules are important because riders can pay several ways. The official fare page lists regular fixed-route single ride at $2.00, regular daily GoPass at $6.00, regular weekly GoPass at $20.00 and regular monthly GoPass at $70.00. Discount fixed-route fares are listed at $1.00 single ride, $3.00 daily, $10.00 weekly and $35.00 monthly.
Contactless Fare Payment and Fare Capping
MST accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express contactless-enabled bank cards and mobile wallets on buses. MST’s fare page explains that contactless fare capping can prevent riders from being charged more than $6 per day, $20 per week or $70 per month when using the same contactless payment method each time.
Transfers and Two-Hour Passes
If you are paying with cash or a GoPass and need to transfer, MST says to request a two-hour pass from the driver when boarding the first bus. If you are paying with contactless payment, tap on each bus and MST states you should only be charged $2 within that two-hour window when using the same method.
Discount Fare Eligibility
MST lists discount fare eligibility for riders 18 and under, riders 65 and older, individuals with disabilities, Medicare card holders, veterans, veteran spouse/caregivers, MST RIDES paratransit eligibility card holders and Special Humanitarian Parole. Proof of eligibility may be required.
✅ Free to Check
Route maps, schedules, RealTime tools, service alerts and system maps are free to view online.
💳 Paid to Ride
Most rides require fare payment unless you qualify for a free college, program or special fare arrangement.
Monterey Trolley, College Student Rides and Special Service Notes
Some MST searches are not for a regular fixed-route bus. Riders may be looking for the Monterey Trolley, free college transportation, military commuter service or mobility programs. These services can have different rules, seasonal patterns or eligibility details.
Monterey Trolley
MST lists the Monterey Trolley as part of its route resources. Trolley riders should open the official trolley page and confirm the current operating season, stops and service day before planning around it. Trolley service can be different from regular fixed-route bus service.
College Student Free Ride Notes
MST states that Hartnell, MPC and CSUMB students ride free on all routes with a valid photo student ID during Fall and Spring semesters. Student fare programs can depend on semester and valid ID, so students should check their school and MST pages before assuming eligibility.
Military and Mobility Services
MST fare pages include military commuter notes for Presidio of Monterey and Naval Postgraduate School access. MST also lists Mobility Services, RIDES paratransit, travel training, taxi vouchers, senior shuttles, MST Navigators and related programs. These are not the same as ordinary fixed-route schedules, so check official eligibility and booking rules.
🚎 Trolley
Use the official Monterey Trolley page for current seasonal and route details.
🎓 College Riders
Hartnell, MPC and CSUMB student free-ride rules require valid student ID and semester eligibility.
♿ Mobility Services
Use MST Mobility Services for RIDES, travel training, senior shuttles and special programs.
MST Service Alerts, Holiday Schedule and Service Change Checks
MST schedules can change because of route revisions, stop removals, holidays, special events, road work, university schedules, weather, construction and operational updates. Always check service alerts before a time-sensitive trip.
Service Change Summary
MST route pages may show service change summaries, including route and schedule modifications. For example, MST’s official pages have listed February 14, 2026 changes affecting Lines 17/18, 23/23X, 31 and 44. If your route is listed in a service change, read the detail before riding.
Holiday Schedule
MST has a dedicated Holiday Schedule page. Holiday service may differ from regular weekday, Saturday or Sunday service. If you are traveling on a public holiday or holiday weekend, check the official holiday page and your route page before leaving.
When a Bus Does Not Arrive
If your bus does not arrive, check MST RealTime again, verify the stop number, confirm the direction, check service alerts and look for nearby transfer options. A missing arrival can mean wrong stop, wrong route, service change, delayed bus, scheduled-arrival result or GPS prediction issue.
Step-by-Step: How to Check a Monterey MST Bus Schedule Correctly
- Open the MST Route List Choose your line number or route name from the official Monterey-Salinas Transit Route List.
- Review the route map Check whether the route serves Monterey, Salinas, Marina, Carmel, Watsonville, King City, Gilroy or another area.
- Choose your direction Confirm your final destination or direction before reading departure times.
- Find your stop number Use the four-digit stop number posted at the stop or listed on the MST website.
- Check RealTime arrivals Use Transit App, text “Next” plus stop number to 25370, call 1-888-MST-BUS1 or use Google Maps.
- Review fare and transfer rules Check regular, discount, GoPass, GoCard, cash, contactless and transfer rules before boarding.
- Check alerts and holidays Review MST service alerts, holiday schedule and route change summaries before time-sensitive trips.
Official Monterey MST Schedule Links and Trusted Transit Resources
Use these official MST resources to verify Monterey-Salinas Transit routes, system maps, live arrivals, fares, service alerts, trip planning, trolley service and mobility programs.
Monterey MST Bus Schedule Map for Routes, Stops and Live Times Near Me
This Monterey guide includes a safe Google Maps search for Monterey MST bus schedule near me. Use it to discover nearby stops, transit centers and routes. Then verify the final route, stop number, live arrival, fare and service alert with official MST tools.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monterey MST Bus Schedule
🚌 How do I find a Monterey MST bus schedule?
Open the official MST Route List, choose your route number, then review the route map and schedule. Use System Maps if you need a regional view or transfer help.
⏱️ How do I check MST live bus times?
Use MST RealTime through the Transit App, text message, phone or Google Maps. You can text “Next” plus your four-digit stop number to 25370, or call 1-888-MST-BUS1 for RealTime information.
📍 Where do I find my MST bus stop number?
Look for the four-digit stop number on the MST RealTime flag sign or sticker at the stop. You can also find stop numbers on MST route pages or call MST customer service for help.
💳 How much is an MST bus fare?
MST lists regular fixed-route single ride fare at $2.00 and discount fare at $1.00. Daily, weekly and monthly GoPass options are also listed, and contactless fare capping may apply when using the same payment method.
📱 Can I use contactless payment on MST buses?
Yes. MST accepts contactless-enabled Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express bank cards and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and Fitbit Pay on buses.
🔁 How do MST transfers work?
If paying with cash or GoPass, request a two-hour pass from the driver when boarding your first bus. If using contactless payment, tap on each bus using the same method so the two-hour transfer rule can apply.
🎓 Do Monterey college students ride MST free?
MST states that Hartnell, MPC and CSUMB students ride free on all routes with a valid photo student ID during Fall and Spring semesters. Students should verify current school and MST rules before riding.
🚎 Is the Monterey Trolley part of MST?
Yes. MST lists the Monterey Trolley in its route resources. Trolley service may have seasonal or special operating details, so check the official Monterey Trolley page before planning a ride.
⚠️ Why is my MST bus not showing a GPS prediction?
MST explains that if a bus is more than 15 minutes away, RealTime may show the scheduled arrival instead of a GPS-based prediction. Check again closer to the arrival time and arrive at least 5 minutes early.
ℹ️ Is BusSchedules.org the official Monterey-Salinas Transit site?
No. BusSchedules.org is an independent informational guide. Always verify exact schedules, stops, fares, live arrivals, service alerts, trolley details and mobility-service rules directly with MST.
Editorial note: This guide is for public information only and is not Monterey-Salinas Transit, MST RealTime, Transit App or a government transit operator. Routes, schedules, stops, fares, payment rules, service alerts, trolley details, college programs, mobility services and live-arrival predictions can change. Always verify directly with MST before commuting, buying a pass, making a transfer or planning a time-sensitive trip.
Final Summary: Best Way to Use the Monterey MST Bus Schedule
The best way to use a monterey mst bus schedule search is to start with the official MST Route List. Choose your line, confirm the direction, open the route map and check the service day before you travel.
For live arrivals, use MST RealTime with the four-digit stop number. You can check through Transit App, text, phone or Google Maps. If the result is more than 15 minutes away, treat it as a scheduled time and check again closer to boarding.
For fares, check the official MST Fares page before riding. MST supports cash, GoPass, GoCard and contactless Tap2Ride payments, with regular, discount and fare-capping rules. For important trips, also review MST service alerts and holiday schedules before leaving.