GTFS is a community-driven open standard for rider-facing transit information.

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Why use GTFS?

  • Improved Rider Experience

    GTFS empowers riders with accurate schedules, and real-time updates, leading to reduced wait times and informed travel decisions.

  • Global Reach & Seamless Trips

    Over 10,000 agencies in 100+ countries use GTFS, ensuring consistent data for multi-agency trips and simplifying travel across regions.

  • Simple and Easy to Use

    GTFS makes it easy for transit agencies by relying on a simple data structure, fostering collaboration and interoperability.

  • Access to a Wide Range of Applications

    By adopting GTFS, agencies reach a wider audience through the vast pool of app developers utilizing the standardized data format.

  • Open Source Community

    GTFS thrives on community collaboration, ensuring its continuous evolution and relevance, with a primary focus on passenger-facing information within the specification.

  • More than just Schedules

    While schedule information is at its core, GTFS also offers additional features that enhance the transit experience, such as fares, flexible services, and real-time updates.

Learn more about GTFS

Two Formats in One Standard

GTFS Static

GTFS Schedule forms the foundation of rider-facing transit information, providing essential, static data.

  • Routes & Stops: Know exactly where to catch your bus or train.
  • Schedules & Frequencies: Plan trips confidently with clear timetables.
  • Fares: See journey costs upfront in apps.
  • Flex Routes: Display demand responsive transportation.
  • And more...
Reference Documentation / Best Practices
Learn more about GTFS Schedule
GTFS Realtime

GTFS Realtime focuses on the ever-changing world of public transit, providing live updates that keep riders informed.

  • Vehicle Locations: Track your bus or train in real-time and see exactly where it is. No more waiting at the stop wondering when it will arrive!
  • Arrival Times: Get a more accurate idea of when your ride will arrive, eliminating the frustration of missed connections.
  • Service Alerts: Receive notifications about any service disruptions on the network, allowing you to adjust your plans accordingly.
Reference Documentation / Best Practices
Learn more about GTFS Realtime

Help develop the future of GTFS

Slack

Join the official slack channel and participate in live chat with other GTFS contributors.

Join Slack

GitHub

The google/transit repository on GitHub is where the standard lives. Propose ideas and engage in discussions.

Visit Github

GTFS Digest

Stay up to date with the GTFS world by reading the latest GTFS Digest.

Read the Digest

Community Resources

Make sure to check out the Resources section for an extensive selection of tips, tools, and tricks.

Checkout the Resources

Active Projects

Discover the developing new additions to the specification that could require your help.

Discover the projects