RTD | Frequently Asked Questions

  Do I need to get a separate RTD College Pass?

No, your Buff OneCard student ID is also your transit pass. Just tap your Buff OneCard on the card reader of the bus or train transit stop. If you don’t have your Buff OneCard yet, follow the directions on the Buff OneCard website.

  I lost my Buff OneCard. Can I get another one?

Yes. You can purchase a replacement card through the Buff OneCard office for a fee of $30. Find out more information from the Buff OneCard website. Phone number is 303-492-0355 and email is boc@colorado.edu.

  My card keeps failing when I tap it on the bus' card reader.

The problem could be arise for variety of reasons.

1. Be sure that you are using your Buff OneCard and not your previously issued College/EcoPass. The College/EcoPass is no longer accepted for CU students or employees.
   1. Any pass issued on or after 2017 has a logo to designate it is RFID enabled. If you have a pass issued prior to 2017 you will need to contact boc@colorado.edu to get a new card.
2. 

   Remove the card from your carrier and make sure that it’s away from other RFID embedded card.

3. Tap the card for 3 seconds on the proper location of the reader. If you tap it on the clear screen meant for cell phones, you will get an error code.
4. It often takes a tap or two before the reader on the bus or train recognizes a newly issued card.
5. Ensure that your card isn’t damaged. There is a very small antenna in the card that can be broken, and a new card will need to be issued.
6. Use your newest assigned card. Any previously issued Buff OneCards have been deactivated.

If your problem still hasn’t been resolved, please let us know at buspass@colorado.edu and we’ll work with you to solve the issue.

  I am not enrolled in classes this semester, but I want to keep riding the bus. Can I buy a pass?

If you are taking a semester off, you can purchase an optional transit pass. Currently, the pass is $95 per semester and you can purchase it from the Buff OneCard office in C4C. This will also give you access to the services at the bike stations. If you have graduated or withdrawn from classes, contact RTD to purchase a bus pass.

  Am I eligible to waive the RTD College Pass fee?

The College Pass program is a mandatory fee that was passed by the student body in 1991 and again in 2009. However, if you already have a valid EcoPass, a valid military pass, live outside of the RTD service area, or have a disability that prevents you from using public transit you can get a refund of your bus program fee. Find out more by reading the fee waiver policy page.  If you meet the qualifications, fill out the Student Bus & Bike Programs Fee Waiver Request Form and we will verify your eligibility and process your fee waiver.

  When does my Spring RTD College Pass expire?

For the Summer 24 term, passes for students who were enrolled in the Spring 24 term will remain active. Students enrolled for the Summer 24 term will have their fee waived and also have their passes activated.

  Where can I find RTD maps and schedules?

The best place is to look online at the RTD Lightrail and Bus Schedule page or Google maps, which does a great job at figuring out which route is best. 

  Can I use my Buff OneCard to get to Denver National Airport (DIA)?

Yes, your Buff OneCard will get you to the airport and back without paying the fare box. For schedules and more Skyride information visit the RTD Airport Service page.