Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Marin County Transit District (Marin Transit)?
The Marin County Transit District (Marin Transit) was formed by a vote of the people of Marin County in 1964 and was given the responsibility for providing local transit service within Marin County. Although Marin Transit has responsibility for local services, it does not own any buses or facilities and does not employ its own drivers. Instead, Marin Transit contracts with other providers, including Golden Gate Transit and Whistlestop Wheels for local bus and paratransit services.

What exactly IS local transit?
If the bus begins and ends in Marin County, then it’s probably a local transit route. Golden Gate Transit routes that travel between Counties (i.e. To San Francisco, Sonoma or Contra Costa) are considered regional routes. Sonoma County Transit also operates a regional service between Santa Rosa and the San Rafael Transit Center.

If the Marin Transit is responsible for local transit, why do all the buses say “Golden Gate Transit” on them?
Golden Gate Transit is the contract operator hired by Marin Transit to provide local services. By using their regular buses, drivers and facilities, we are able to get the most efficient service possible. Some of the same buses that provide local service during some times of day also provide regional service. By “branding” the buses the same way, Golden Gate Transit has the most flexibility in how they are deployed, and can offer the best price possible for local service.

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