Definition of bus pass

The term "bus pass" is commonly used in many English-speaking countries to refer to a form of public transportation ticketing. The origin of the word itself can be traced back to the early 20th century when the first organized and efficient bus services began to emerge in urban areas. Before the introduction of bus passes, riders had to pay the fare to the bus driver manually every time they boarded a bus, or purchase a single fare ticket for multiple trips in advance. In the 1930s, some transportation authorities in the UK began experimenting with the concept of a weekly or monthly bus pass, which allowed frequent riders to pay a fixed price for unlimited travel during a specific time period. This concept was soon adopted by other urban areas, and bus passes became increasingly popular as a convenient and affordable option for commuters. The specific term "bus pass" was formally adopted in the 1950s and 1960s as bus authorities began developing standardized pass systems that were interchangeable across multiple bus routes and operators. Over time, the functionality of bus passes has expanded to include features like contactless technology, online purchasing, and mobile ticketing. However, the enduring popularity of the term "bus pass" reflects the lasting value and convenience of this simple, everyday transportation solution.