San Francisco MUNI

The Nuts and Bolts of MUNI

MUNI’s bus, train and cable car lines operate 365 days a year, primarily within city limits, with service occurring 24 hours a day (a very limited number of buses operate from 1:30AM to 5:30AM—after 5:30AM, service on all buses and trains is in full swing). The system is well known for its short wait times (compared to public transportation systems in other U.S. cities) for all lines—travelers can expect, on average, a wait time of about 10 minutes during peak hours for most buses and trains. The easiest way to peruse MUNI maps and timetables for arrivals and departures is at 511.org. You’ll find complete details on inbound and outbound travel schedules on both weekdays and weekends. For a look at the over three dozen different MUNI lines of operation, go to this section of the official MUNI website: SF MUNI Route List.

San Francisco MUNI Fares

Base fare for MUNI is $1.50 for adults, and only 50 cents for the disabled, senior citizens, and youth between the ages of 5 and 17. When riding a MUNI train, retain your proof of purchase—aboveground MUNI trains are easy to board without paying fare, due to the fact that backdoor exits can also be used as unauthorized entrances. However, MUNI police do occasionally board trains and ask to see proofs of purchase from all travelers. If you get caught without your proof of purchase, you will face a hefty fine. When traveling by MUNI bus, always ask for a transfer after paying your fare. A transfer is usually good for up to 90 minutes, and allows you to board an additional MUNI bus after paying base fare for the first MUNI bus you’ve boarded (i.e. you can travel on two different buses within 90 minutes for only $1.50).

MUNI Passports

If you use MUNI a lot, or if you are a tourist planning on seeing the city by t public transportation, you can purchase a MUNI passport, which will save you the time of having to root around in your wallet and change purse for fare. Passports are good for unlimited rides on MUNI, and can be purchased in one day ($11), three day ($18), and seven day ($24) increments. They are available for sale online here, or may be purchased in person at the baggage claims area of the San Francisco International Airport.

What San Francisco MUNI Riders Need to Know

Some basic things to keep in mind when boarding a San Francisco MUNI train or bus include having your fare or transfer ready for your driver, moving to the back of the train or bus if there are no seats available, and offering your seat an elderly or disabled person should the bus be full. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and do not carry your wallet in the front pocket of a coat. Nor should you place your wallet in a backpack (if you’re standing and have your wallet in a backpack, you’re making yourself a very easy target for a thief). If you see suspicious activity on a MUNI train or bus, report it immediately to your driver.

Visit the official MUNI website for more information, including a history of MUNI, details on trip planners, press, and even job opportunities.