Do You Need ID for Greyhound? Sometimes. Here’s Why.
Do you need ID for Greyhound buses? Sometimes. When traveling on a Greyhound bus you’ll sometimes run into circumstances where a valid id will be required. In the following article, I’ll be explaining exactly when and why you might need an ID when taking a Greyhound bus.
Thinking about traveling on a Greyhound bus? Check out my article: Are Greyhound Buses Safe? Greyhound Safety Statistics and Tips.
Do You Need ID For Greyhound When Buying a Ticket In Person?
The most common time you’ll be asked for ID is when you’re buying your Greyhound tickets. When buying a Greyhound ticket at the bus station you can use either cash or a credit/debit card. If you pay with cash, you won’t need to show an ID.
However, if you pay with a credit/debit card, the Greyhound agent may ask you to present a valid ID to verify that the name on the card matches the name of the passenger.
Do You Need ID When Buying Your Greyhound Bus Ticket Online?
If you pre-pay for your Greyhound ticket online on the Greyhound website or app, you will not need an ID. Just make sure you have your ticket ready when boarding the bus.
If you don’t have your ticket, you may need to get it printed when you arrive at the bus station so make sure you have your confirmation number handy. If you don’t have your confirmation number, the Greyhound agent will need an ID to print your ticket.
Do You Need ID When Boarding The Bus?
Greyhound’s policy states that passengers are not required to present an ID when boarding the bus. Ensure you can travel without an ID by buying your ticket online/over the phone, using the self-service kiosks, or using the app to present your ticket.
It’s important to note that this policy is subject to change and also depends on the State or Province regulations. It is always recommended to check with Greyhound customer service or the station you plan to depart from to confirm their current policy on ID requirements.
Uncommon Occurrences Where a Driver’s License May Be Required
There are also times when you might be required to show ID while on your Greyhound trip. If the bus makes any unscheduled stops or if there’s some sort of emergency and law enforcement is called, you may be asked to present your ID.
The driver may also ask to see your ID if they suspect that you’re a minor and trying to travel unaccompanied without Greyhound’s unaccompanied minor form.
When you need a Photo ID:
- When buying your ticket in person with a credit/debit card
- When picking up your ticket without a confirmation number
- If Greyhound staff need to verify your ticket
- If you’re asked by law enforcement
- If you’re suspected of being underage.
- If you have a checked bag and the baggage handler needs to verify your identity.
When you don’t need a Photo ID:
- If you’re 16 years old or younger and with an adult.
- If you pre-pay for a ticket online and have a printed ticket
- When picking up your ticket with a confirmation number
Forms of Official ID that Greyhound Accepts
Here are some alternative ids you can use to meet the bus carrier’s requirements and company policy. Make sure that any identification that you use has the passenger’s first and last name as well as an up-to-date photo.
- State ID
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- College ID
- Active Duty ID or Military ID
- Permanent Resident Card
Does an Expired ID work for a Greyhound Ticket?
Yes, an expired id will work at most bus stations. However, it’s up to the driver’s or agent’s discretion. If it’s after the expiration date, you may not be let on the bus. It’s always best to have multiple valid forms of id just in case you run into problems.
Can a 15 year old get on a Greyhound alone?
Greyhound policy states that children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Therefore, a 15-year-old would not be able to travel alone on a Greyhound bus. They must be accompanied by an adult or have a notarized letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian.
How Strict is Greyhound about ID?
Greyhound does have a policy in place that requires passengers to present a valid government-issued ID when boarding the bus, but it is not always strictly enforced. The extent to which the policy is enforced can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location of the bus station, the time of day, and the discretion of the bus driver or other staff. Some passengers have reported that they have been allowed to board the bus without showing ID, while others have been asked to present ID multiple times.
So, do you need ID for Greyhound? No. You do not need an ID for Greyhound as long as you buy your ticket online/over the phone, use the self-service kiosks, or use the app to present your ticket.
If you have any questions or concerns about the question “Do you need an id to ride greyhound?”, feel free to reach out to Greyhound customer service or a Greyhound agent. They’ll be more than happy to help!
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