For me, navigating Victoria is easiest on the Victoria Regional Transit System buses. Tthey’re reliable, accessible, and a snapshot of the city in motion. Here’s what every wheelchair user (or their travel buddy) should know before boarding.

Fully Accessible Buses & Stops

  • Every fixed-route bus in Victoria has either a ramp or lift to make boarding easy. Inside, you’ll find prioritized wheelchair spaces where drivers secure chairs with straps or tie-downs. If someone is seated there, the driver will ask them to move. 
  • Boarding and exiting must happen only at designated accessible bus stops—look for the blue-and-white wheelchair symbol. If you’re unsure, you can always call BC Transit for confirmation. 

Boarding & Riding Tips

  • Try to make eye contact with the driver as your bus approaches and position yourself near the ramp area so they can deploy it promptly. It makes things smoother for everyone. 
  • Once on board, let the driver secure your wheelchair and ensure it’s safely fastened before the bus moves.
  • Need to get off somewhere between stops? Press the “push for stop request” button or let the driver know—they’re accommodating when you ask. 

handyDART: Door-to-Door Help You Can Count On

  • handyDART is a registered, shared, door-to-door transit service for those who cannot use fixed-route buses. You must register first. 
  • Once registered, you can book rides by phone or online—staff or the system will pick you up at your accessible door and drop you off at your destination. 

A New handyDART Centre: More Service, More Reliability

In March 2025, a new LEED Gold–standard handyDART operations centre opened in View Royal. This center, funded by federal, provincial, and regional partners, is designed to improve reliability, expand service, and pave the way for integration with low-carbon electric bus operations in the future. 

Quick Reference Table

Service Type When to Use How to Access
Fixed-Route Buses Going across the city along regular routes and stops Go to a designated accessible stop and signal the driver
handyDART If you can’t board a fixed-route bus safely Register first, then book trips online or via phone

 

Last updated on September 10, 2025

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WheelchairTraveling.com
At fourteen I became paralyzed but the love for adventure did not vanish. I want to see and experience this world. As the founder of wheelchairtraveling.com I believe in creating an accessible world and together we can make that happen. Be seen to be heard.
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