BoltBus does not currently offer a dedicated senior discount program

BoltBus, the intercity bus service, stopped operating in 2017. The company was acquired by Greyhound, which now operates most of the routes BoltBus once served. If you are looking for senior discounts on bus travel, you will need to check with Greyhound or other active bus carriers instead.

Greyhound does offer discounts to passengers age 62 and older, and other bus companies have their own senior pricing. The discount amount and how you receive it varies by carrier and by the specific route you are traveling.

Key Takeaways

  • BoltBus ceased operations in 2017 and was absorbed into Greyhound's network.
  • Greyhound offers discounts to passengers age 62 and older on most routes.
  • You will need to contact the bus carrier directly or check their website to learn the current discount percentage and how to book at that rate.
  • Other intercity bus companies such as Megabus and regional carriers may also offer senior pricing.

Greyhound Senior Fares

Greyhound, which now operates the routes formerly served by BoltBus, offers reduced fares to passengers age 62 and older. The discount is not automatic — you must request it when you book your ticket, either online, by phone, or at a ticket counter.

The amount of the discount varies depending on the route, the time of travel, and current demand. Some routes offer a flat percentage off the standard fare, while others have specific senior fare prices that change seasonally. You will need to check Greyhound's website or call their customer service line to see the exact price for your specific trip.

When you book, you will be asked to provide your age or date of birth to confirm you meet the age requirement. If you are booking online, look for a "Senior" or "Passenger Type" dropdown menu. If you are booking by phone, tell the agent you are age 62 or older and ask for the senior fare.

How to Book a Greyhound Senior Ticket

You can book a Greyhound ticket through their website at greyhound.com, by calling 1-800-231-2222, or by visiting a Greyhound station in person. Each method allows you to select the senior fare option.

Online booking is usually the fastest. Enter your departure and arrival cities, your travel date, and the number of passengers. When you select your passenger type, choose "Senior (62+)" instead of "Adult." The website will then show you the available senior fares for that route and date.

If you book by phone, have your travel dates and cities ready. The agent will ask your age to confirm the senior discount applies, then show you available times and prices. Payment is handled over the phone with a credit or debit card.

Other Bus Carriers with Senior Discounts

If Greyhound does not serve your route or you prefer another carrier, several other intercity bus companies offer senior pricing. Megabus, which operates routes in the eastern and central United States, offers discounts to passengers age 65 and older. Peter Pan Bus Lines, which serves the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, also has senior fares.

Regional bus operators in your state may offer senior discounts as well. Check with your state's public transportation authority or search for "senior bus discounts [your state]" to find carriers that serve your area.

The discount percentage and booking process differ by carrier, so contact each one directly to learn their current rates and how to book at the senior price.

What to Bring When You Travel

When you arrive at the bus station or board your bus, bring a photo ID that shows your date of birth. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. The bus driver or station agent may ask to see it to confirm you are the age you stated when you booked.

If you booked your ticket online or by phone, bring your confirmation number or receipt. You can show this on your phone or print it out. Some carriers allow you to board with just your confirmation number, while others require a printed ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to show proof of age when I book, or only when I travel?

You provide your age or date of birth when you book, and the carrier may ask to see photo ID when you board. You do not need to bring ID to the ticket counter or website to book — just when you travel.

Can someone else book a senior ticket for me?

Yes, but you will still need to provide your date of birth at the time of booking so the carrier can confirm the senior discount applies. When you travel, bring your photo ID to verify your age.

Is the senior discount available on all routes and all travel dates?

Senior discounts are available on most routes, but the amount of the discount varies by route, time of day, and how far in advance you book. Some peak travel times may have limited or no discount. Check the specific route and date you want to travel to see the current senior fare.

What if I booked a regular adult ticket by mistake?

Contact the carrier's customer service line before your travel date and explain that you are age 62 or older and should have booked at the senior rate. They may be able to adjust your ticket or issue a refund so you can rebook at the correct price.