Transportation

Bus Guest Pass (Yellow Card)

Yellow bus cards are needed when a student is going home on a different bus or when a student is getting off at a different bus stop. The card is valid for 10 school days from the date it was written as long as the student is riding the same bus and exiting at the same stop.

Bus cards should be submitted no later than 12 p.m. on the day of the ride. Bus cards will only be accepted via the Yellow Bus Card Request Form below. For security reasons, we will not process yellow cards via phone or email. Please call Tammy Jackson-Alexander 206-252-3513 if you have any additional questions regarding bus cards.

If you are requesting a permanent bus change, please contact SPS Transportation at 206-252-0900 or by emailing transdept@seattleschools.org.

Submit Yellow Bus Card Request Form

SPS Transportation

Seattle Public Schools provides free transportation for students who live within their school attendance area but outside the school’s walk zone.

If a student is placed in a program, such as deaf and hard of hearing services, that is not available in your neighborhood (attendance) area school, transportation is usually provided.

Transportation Eligibility Guidelines

Elementary and K-8 schools have a 1-mile walk boundary. Eligible students are provided service primarily on yellow school buses.
Middle schools have a 2-mile walk boundary. Service is either by yellow school bus or ORCA card for the Metro.
High schools have a 2-mile walk boundary. Service is provided with an ORCA card.

Use our school attendance and option school transportation area maps to see if your child is eligible for transportation.

Safe Routes to School

Biking and walking are great ways to get to school. Use the City of Seattle interactive map to find safe walking and biking routes to your school.

Walk, Bike, and Roll to School

Walking, biking, and rolling to school supports exercise, reduces pollution, and connects neighbors. Studies even show students arrive at school more attentive and ready to learn. Visit this page for resources to support you in walking, biking, and rolling to school.

Delayed Bus

Bus routes are sometimes delayed due to traffic, weather, construction, or other situations.

If your bus is late, we recommend your student stay at the bus stop. Please create a plan and discuss with your student what to do if their bus is late.

View today’s bus routes that are reported as running at least 15 minutes late.