How To Use OmniLink

	Watch the Video Choose a resolution: HI MED LO En español

There are four easy ways to use OmniLink:

• OmniLink Bus Stops
  
• On-Demand Bus Stops
  
• Schedule an Off-Route Trip
  
• Place a Standing Order

1. OmniLink Bus Stops

All OmniLink bus stops are identified on the route maps. Buses serve each stop on every trip- simply go to the closest stop. Each of these locations has a sign that identifies it as an OmniLink bus stop. Schedules lists departure times for several key stops (timepoints). If your stop is between two timepoints, use the time for the stop before yours as a guide. Plan to arrive at your stop 5 minutes early.

2. On-Demand Bus Stops

In addition to the designated bus stops, there are some locations that are on-demand bus stops. If you are riding to an on-demand bus stop, let the driver know your destination when you board. To be picked up from and on-demand bus stop, call the OmniLink office and the next available bus will be rerouted to pick you up. On-demand stops are designated with a triangle on route maps. Major commuter parking lots served by OmniRide commuter buses and local Virginia Railway Express stations and many senior living communities are some of the on-demand stops served by OmniLink buses. When using an on-demand stop, passengers not eligible for reduced fares will be required to pay the off-route surcharge.

3. Schedule an Off-Route Trip

If you cannot get to an OmniLink stop, or if your destination is not close to a stop, you may still be able to use OmniLink by reserving an off-route trip. These trips are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to trips that ensure the bus service is reliable for all customers. Passengers not eligible for reduced fares will be required to pay the off-route surcharge.

To determine if an off-route trip is possible, call Customer Service from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday - Friday. A Customer Service Agent will work with you and try to route the bus closer to where you live or want to go - up to 3/4 mile off the route. If your first choice of time is not available, remember that you can still get to the bus stop to catch the bus when you need to. You may also prefer to schedule the trip for an alternate available time in the schedule. Trips may be scheduled with as little as 2 hours notice, but for best results, reservations should be made 1 to 2 days in advance.

You may be asked to get on or off the bus at a location that is within a few blocks of your origin or destination. Some locations are not accessible to OmniLink buses.

OmniLink buses will meet you at the curb of your pickup location. If you are not at the pickup point, the bus will not wait. Plan to arrive at your stop 5 minutes early.

To schedule a trip call (703) 730-6664 or (888) 730-6664.

4. Place a Standing Order

Standing orders are subject to availability. If you plan to make the same off-route trip regularly, you may be able to place a standing order by calling Customer Service. If your standing order is confirmed, an OmniLink bus will pick you up at the same time and place unless you cancel service. Plan to arrive at your stop 5 minutes early. To place a standing order call (703) 730-6664.

How to Change or Cancel a Reservation

If you need to cancel or change your reservation or standing order for an OmniLink trip, please call (703) 730-6664 or (888) 730-6664, at least 2 hours before the trip is scheduled. Cancelling less than 2 hours before your scheduled pickup or not showing at pickup location will be considered a missed trip . Passengers with 3 missed trips within 30 days will be denied the privilege of requesting reservations for 30 days.