While many are put off by the twisting system of trains, buses and ferries, fret not! The MBTA is entirely survivable (and efficient) once you learn these four basic etiquette categories.

1. Seating 

All MBTA vehicles have a priority seating section designated for disabled and elderly passengers, as well as a wheelchair area. It’s not illegal to occupy priority areas as an able-bodied person, but it is polite to offer them to disabled and elderly passengers.

Even though I’d protect my emotional support tote with my life, it’s not a passenger! No one wants to lose a seat to a suitcase so move your bags when people are boarding. Also, for the sake of your fellow passengers, secure your belongings; I wouldn’t wish thirty minutes of backpack-to-the-face on my worst enemy.

If you wish to remain standing, try not to block empty seats so others may sit down. If I had a nickel for every time I’ve had to ask a standee if they’re using the seat that’s been unoccupied for the past three stops, I could get Charlie off the MTA and buy him a monthly pass. 

2. Spatial Awareness

Before disembarking, the T famously announces, “Stand clear of the closing doors, please.” Motion sensored doors can fail and will injure you, especially when we take the history of the MBTA into account. If you can’t squeeze in, wait for the next train. It’s better to be late than in the hospital.

When approaching stations, move away from the doors if you’re not getting off. The Green Line won’t leave without you, and the city won’t crumble if you don’t get on the bus first. For particularly crowded cars (like those rough rides after a Red Sox game), I like to temporarily deboard to make way for exiting passengers. 

It’s best to avoid lingering on stairs, escalators and platforms. Speaking from experience, scrolling and walking is a bad idea. 

Whenever I’m confused, I like to find a Transit Ambassador. They are typically near turnstiles in red uniforms, or you can stop somewhere to check the MBTA mobile app.  

While it may be awkward, it’s not weird to sit down next to a stranger. What is weird is spreading your entire body across the seats or giving an impromptu dance performance. 

Other passengers aren’t interested in your Spotify Daylist, TikTok edits, or phone call home. The subway may be famously loud, but you don’t need to scream; the announcements are hard enough to hear as is.

As far as standing goes, please, even if it bruises your ego, hold on to the grab rails. If you’re haphazardly perched on the steps, ignoring the “Don’t Stand Here” signs, disaster can and will strike.

3. Sustenance and Substances

There is nothing wrong with eating on public transit as long as you clean up whatever mess you create. Keep in mind that some riders may have severe allergies, and of course, you’re on a moving vehicle that can brake at any time – so hold onto that sandwich tight and it better not be peanut butter. 

Do not smoke nicotine or marijuana products or consume alcohol on the MBTA or in MBTA areas such as stations and bus stops. It is both illegal and inconsiderate of your fellow patrons.

4. Payment

Pay your fare! The MBTA currently has a projected deficit of $239M, and fare evasion accounts for an overwhelming amount of those losses. Public transportation is a public service, but fare evasion creates long-term issues for the MBTA’s operations. 

Paying your fare means continued service, clean vehicles and paid workers. Before the start of each semester, Simmons students can order discounted transit passes that cover the subway, Silver Line, buses, ferries and commuter rail lines.

The MBTA is ubiquitous with Bostonian routines, but you don’t need to be a transit superfan to survive it! Remember Sharks, public transportation is better for the environment and your wallet; all you need is common courtesy.