EMX RIDER GUIDE
Beginning February 1, 2025: Scan or Tap to Ride EmXStarting February 1, 2025, riders will need to scan their Umo app or tap card as they board, just like on neighborhood bus routes. At high-traffic stations near UO, and at Eugene, Springfield, Centennial, Seneca, and Commerce Stations, look for QR code signs to pay fare before you board with the Umo app. |
EmX connects West Eugene, Downtown Eugene, the University of Oregon, Downtown Springfield, and the Gateway and RiverBend areas. EmX stations are designed for passenger comfort, featuring covered shelters, fare vending machines, and real-time arrival information. Use the following tips to guide your ride.
Schedule & Map
Purchase Fare Before You Board
Fares for EmX are the same as regular bus service, but must be purchased in advance of riding. Purchase your ticket well in advance of the EmX arriving; this process may take a few moments, so plan accordingly.
Buy Fare with the Umo App
Get step-by-step instructions on getting started and purchasing fare with the Umo App or tap card on the Umo Pass webpage.
Ticket Vending Machines
Each EmX station has a ticket vending machine to purchase fare. Credit/debit cards or cash are accepted, but the ticket machine cannot give change. Valid LTD fare is accepted on EmX, and EmX day passes are accepted on regular service.
Three easy steps to purchase your ticket:
- Select your fare type (yellow button).
- Insert exact payment. The machine accepts credit cards, $1 bills, and change, except pennies. The machine does not give change.
- Take your ticket.
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Made a mistake?
- Press the red cancel button. Coins will be returned or you will receive a canceled transaction ticket. Canceled transaction tickets must be redeemed at LTD Customer Service Center within three business days. EmX single-ride tickets are valid on EmX for 30 minutes from the time of purchase. EmX Day Pass tickets are valid on EmX for the day they are purchased or they may be exchanged for a standard LTD Day Pass on a regular LTD bus on the date of purchase.
Wait for the Bus to Arrive
With 10-15 minute service on weekdays and 15-30 minute service in the evenings and on weekends, the next EmX bus is always right around the corner.
All EmX Stations are equipped with comfortable covered shelters, have a fare machine, use functional art, are pedestrian friendly and most feature real-time arrival information.
Boarding the Bus is Easy with Level Boarding Platforms
EmX vehicles are designed to make boarding faster and easier for everyone. Passengers can easily board the EmX as the station platforms are the same height as the bus, and the bus pulls up very closely to the platform. Board with all your possessions at the same time; don’t leave something on the platform as the doors can close without warning. Learn more about LTD’s Carry-On Policy in LTD’s Rules for Riding. If you need a ramp to bridge the distance between the platform and the bus, notify the operator.
Mobility Devices
Two wheelchair bays are located at the front of each vehicle. Priority for front seats is given to seniors and people with disabilities.
Learn more about riding EmX with a mobility device on LTD’s Accessibility Info webpage.
Strollers
Children are welcome in strollers on EmX as long as the stroller does not block the aisle. If the aisle is blocked, you may be asked to fold and stow your stroller.
Bikes on EmX
Taking your bike on the bus? EmX can hold up to three bikes inside. Bicycles and similar devices powered by fuel other than a battery, are not permitted. Battery compartments must be sealed. Devices must weigh under 55 pounds.
When riding EmX with your bike, enter through the back door, place your bike in the rack and secure it using the fastening straps. Pay attention as others board with bikes as you may need them to move their bike so that you can remove yours. Get detailed instructions for taking your bike on the bus and watch a tutorial video here.
Beginning February 1, 2025: Scan or tap to ride EmX
Pay as you board with your Umo tap card or app.
It’s easy to pay fare on EmX with the Umo app or tap card. Scan or tap as you board, just like on neighborhood bus routes. On-board readers will be located at the front and rear doors to pay fare when boarding.
Pay before boarding with QR code scan at select stations.
At high-traffic stations near UO, and at Eugene, Springfield, Centennial, Seneca and Commerce Stations, look for QR code signs to pay fare before you board with the Umo app.
To use the QR code signs:
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Open the Umo app.
- If your app is not already connected to your bus pass, add money or a pass to your Umo wallet, or redeem your benefit code from your school or employer.
- Select “Code” from the menu at the bottom and then select “Scan”.
- Scan the QR code located at the top of the EmX ticket vending machine.
Cash will still be accepted at ticket vending machines and at Customer Service Centers. Keep your ticket to show fare inspectors.
Enjoy the Ride
On-bus announcements will keep you informed as you approach each station, including which side of the vehicle to exit. Bus-only lanes and signals let buses travel ahead of car traffic, creating faster travel times. Pull the cord or press the stop button to signal for your stop.
About EmX
The Emerald Express (EmX), named after the region’s Emerald Valley, serves the Eugene-Springfield metropolitan area and is one of the first BRT systems to operate in the U.S. EmX began in 2007 and now serves 28 system miles, traveling between west Eugene, downtown Eugene, the UO, downtown Springfield, and the Gateway and the RiverBend areas. This service is the backbone of LTD’s public transportation service, carrying 12,000 riders a day* and connecting to other bus routes as well as Park & Ride locations and bicycle-pedestrian pathways.