New York City’s bus network operates around the clock, delivering reliable service to millions of riders each year. Below you will find the key schedule details you need to plan your trip.
Weekday Service
Morning Peak (5:30am–9:30am): Most routes begin running at 5:30am, with additional buses dispatched every 5–10?minutes on high-demand corridors such as the M15, Bx12, and Q44.
Midday (9:30 am–3:30pm): Frequency typically shifts to 10–15 minutes. Routes that serve residential neighborhoods maintain a steady flow, while express lines reduce the number of trips.
Evening Peak (3:30 pm–7:30pm): Service mirrors the morning pattern, with buses arriving every 5–10 minutes on the busiest routes.
Late Evening (7:30pm–12:00am): Frequency drops to 15–20 minutes, but most routes continue to run until midnight.
Weekend Service
Saturday: Most routes start at 6:00am and run until 1:00am the following day. Frequency typically ranges from 10 minutes on core routes to 20 minutes on peripheral lines.
Sunday: Service begins at 7:00am and ends at 12:30am. Frequency mirrors Saturday’s schedule, with a slight reduction on select routes.
Overnight (Night) Service
The MTA Night Bus system operates from midnight to 5:30 am on major avenues. These buses run every 30 minutes and provide essential connections when the subway is closed.
Holiday Adjustments
On federal holidays, the MTA follows a reduced schedule that resembles the Sunday timetable. Some routes suspend service entirely; check the MTA website for exact dates.
Real-Time Information
Use the MTA Bus Time app or the official website to view live arrivals, service alerts, and planned detours. The platform updates every few seconds, ensuring you receive the most accurate information.
Plan Ahead
Before you head out, verify the specific route’s first-and-last-bus times. The MTA publishes a downloadable PDF for each line, and the mobile app offers push notifications for delays or cancellations. By checking these resources, you can avoid unexpected wait times and enjoy a smoother journey across the city.