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Our Bus Services

Non-Transportation Area Changes for 2023-2024

Board of Education Policy 5200 Student Transportation increases the allowable distance students may walk to school based on the distance between a student’s home and school. As a result, non-transportation areas (walk areas) have been expanded for the majority of HCPSS schools for the 2023-2024 school year. Schools are communicating details and additional information can be found online.

Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) provides safe, reliable and efficient transportation to and from school for enrolled students living beyond a one-mile walking distance from elementary schools, a one and one-half mile walking distance from middle schools and a two-mile walking distance from high schools.

Bus Locator

The bus stop locator for 2022-2023 is available online

Bus stops for the 2023-2024 school year will be available in August 2023.

General questions regarding transportation should be emailed to transportation@hcpss.org. For more urgent matters, such as a late or missing bus, please call HCPSS Transportation at 410-313-6732.

Transportation Forms

School Year Readiness and Responsibilities

Families with younger children should practice walking to their assigned bus stops together and help their children memorize their bus numbers and school name. Parents should also write down their child’s stop location and school name and place it in a safe location accessible to the student. Ensure that your child knows their bus number and school name.

Find out more about:

Bus stops

Bus stops are established based on several factors, which include walking conditions, walking distance to the stop and road accessibility. Given acceptable walking conditions, bus stops are placed at least a quarter mile apart.

View frequently asked questions about stops

Safety is our Priority

There are a variety of ways to keep students and motorists safe during student pick up and drop off. Staying alert and aware of the traffic and pedestrian environment fosters a safe and enjoyable rider experience. Read our frequently asked safety questions for more safety information.

HCPSS is gradually installing bus cameras to improve rider safety. Find out how the cameras work and why they are being installed.

View additional safety tips for:

Read an enhanced transcript of this video →

Delays

The school system notifies parents of weather closures and delays using our alert service, HCPSS News. Parents should monitor weather conditions during inclement weather and anticipate that school bus schedules may be affected.

Learn how we make decisions during weather events →

Frequently asked questions about non-weather delays →

School Bus Contractors

Independent school bus contractors provide student transportation for the Howard County Public School System.

Learn more about how to become a school bus driver

Class Registration →

Contact us

Our main office number is 410-313-6732

Email us at transportation@hcpss.org

Bus Area Manager Contact Information

Lost something? Question about a route? All area managers are responsible for regular and special needs transportation for the schools they service.