Travel Training
No-cost Program to Help You Plan Your Trip
COTA Travel Training is a resource that provides the tools for you to ride independently and confidently. Travel Trainers provide a safe, supportive environment. Individuals or groups can experience travel training through a virtual or in-person presentation, with an out-of-service vehicle, and/or field training in the community.
You’ll learn to:
- Navigate successfully using the Transit app
- Plan your trip using the easiest and safest route to specific destinations
- Read and understand route maps and schedules
- Locate and transfer to other vehicles
- Board the vehicle with a mobility device
- Recognize vehicle numbers, transit stops and landmarks
- Pay fares and purchase passes
Magnus Cards
For instant Travel Training support, we encourage you to explore our How to Ride page, as well as COTA’s MagnusCards Deck. The MagnusCards app uses visual cues, step-by-step instructions and optional audio in either English or Spanish to guide users through the transit process. COTA’s Card Decks in the app help autistic, neurodiverse and neurotypical customers plan trips, pay fares, board buses, ride and transfer. Download Magnus Cards
Travel Training Guide
Learn to ride COTA with Confidence
Whether you’re new to public transit or looking to refresh your skills, the COTA Travel Training Guide has everything you need to navigate COTA independently and confidently.
The 2026 guide covers the essentials of riding COTA, including:
- How to plan your trip and navigate routes
- COTA fares, passes and payment options
- How to board, ride and exit the bus
- How to transfer between vehicles
- Accessibility options and services
- COTA Mainstream and COTA//Plus
- Using the Transit app
- MagnusCards and other tools for independent travel
Download the Travel Training Guide to learn more and get ready to ride COTA on your own.
Want to see it in action? Watch our How To Ride COTA Youtube playlist for step-by-step videos covering the basics of riding COTA.
Disclaimer: Travel training requests will be determined based on order received, need and availability. Our travel team will be in touch within 5-7 business days. Customers are also welcome to email TravelTraining@cota.com for more information.
Additional travel training resources
Visit our How to Ride page for resources including our Trip Planner and the Transit app.