Frequently asked questions
Last updated September 2026
What is Philly Transit Live?
A live map of Philadelphia transit. Pick the routes you ride and you see every vehicle on them moving in real time, how late each one is running, and when the next one reaches your stop.
Is it free?
Yes. The web map is free, with no account and no ads. The iPhone app will be free to download with 2 saved routes and 2 favorite stops, and an optional Pro upgrade — see what Pro adds.
What does Pro add?
Room for up to 10 routes and 6 favorite stops, and — coming soon — arrival alerts that tell you when your bus is a few minutes from your stop, even with the app closed. The yearly plan starts with a 4 weeks free trial. Compare free and Pro.
Do I need an account?
No. There are no accounts. Your routes, favorite stops and settings are saved on your own device.
Which kinds of transit does it show?
SEPTA buses, trolleys and Regional Rail, plus PATCO.
The Broad Street Line and Market-Frankford Line are not available, because SEPTA does not publish real-time positions for them and the map would rather show nothing than guess.
Why do PATCO trains look different?
PATCO publishes a timetable but no live positions, so its trains are drawn where the schedule says they should be, with a dashed outline to show they are scheduled rather than tracked.
Where does the data come from?
Vehicle positions, arrival predictions and service alerts come from SEPTA's public data feeds, and PATCO from its published schedule. The map refreshes vehicle positions every few seconds. Philly Transit Live is independent and not affiliated with SEPTA.
Why does it want my location?
To center the map on you and show the routes and stops running nearby. It is optional: turn it off and everything else works, or drop a pin anywhere on the map to see what runs near there instead. Your position is never stored. The privacy page has the details.
How do I save a favorite stop?
Tap a stop on the map and press the star in its popup. Favorites show on the map wherever you are, with the next arrival listed in the ★ Stops panel.
Can I share my map with someone?
Yes. The link button on the map copies a link that carries your routes, favorite stops and any pin you have dropped. Whoever opens it sees exactly what you see — it is also the easiest way to keep your setup when you switch browsers.
When is the iPhone app coming out?
Soon, but there is no date yet — Apple's review sets it. The web map works on every phone in the meantime.
Something looks wrong. Who do I tell?
Check Support for the common causes, or write to support@phillytransitlive.com.