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Getting Around the Pee Dee Region by Bus

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What the Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority Does

The Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) operates public bus service across Florence, Darlington, and Marlboro counties in South Carolina's eastern region. The system connects riders to work, medical appointments, shopping, and community services within and between these three counties. PDRTA is the main transit option for people without personal vehicles in this part of the state.

The authority runs fixed routes on schedules published online and at transit centers. Riders pay per trip or purchase passes that cover multiple rides. Service hours and frequency vary by route, with some running all day and others operating only during peak commute times or specific days of the week.

Key Takeaways

  • PDRTA serves Florence, Darlington, and Marlboro counties with fixed bus routes that operate on published schedules.
  • You can pay per trip with cash or a reloadable card, or purchase daily, weekly, or monthly passes depending on how often you ride.
  • Route maps, schedules, and real-time bus tracking are available on the PDRTA website and through the mobile app.
  • Paratransit service is available for people with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses, with advance reservations required.
  • Several routes connect to regional destinations like medical centers and shopping areas, making it possible to plan trips across multiple counties.

How to Pay for Your Ride

PDRTA accepts cash on the bus for single trips, though exact change is required on most routes. The authority also issues a reloadable transit card that you can use repeatedly. You load money onto the card at designated retail locations or online, and tap it when you board. The card costs less per trip than paying cash each time, so regular riders save money by using it.

Monthly passes are the best value if you ride several times a week. A monthly pass covers unlimited rides on all PDRTA routes for a set price. Weekly passes and daily passes are also sold for shorter-term needs. You can purchase passes at the Florence Transit Center, through the PDRTA website, or at retail partners throughout the region.

Finding Routes and Schedules

The PDRTA website lists all active routes with maps showing stops, estimated travel times, and departure schedules. Each route has its own page with a downloadable PDF schedule you can print or save to your phone. Routes are numbered and named by their main destinations—for example, a route might connect downtown Florence to a hospital or shopping district.

The PDRTA mobile app shows real-time bus locations, so you can see exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive at your stop. The app also lets you set alerts for your regular routes and save favorite trips. If you do not have a smartphone, you can call PDRTA directly to ask about schedules or get directions to the nearest stop.

Service for People with Disabilities

PDRTA operates a paratransit service for people with disabilities who cannot ride fixed-route buses. Paratransit uses smaller vehicles that pick up and drop off passengers at their homes or other locations within the service area. You must register for paratransit and be certified as may be able to access before you can use it.

To register, contact PDRTA's paratransit office with documentation of your disability. Once approved, you make reservations by phone or through the website for each trip you want to take. Paratransit operates during the same hours as fixed-route service and charges the same fare. Advance notice is usually required—typically one business day ahead—so plan your trips in advance.

Connections to Regional Destinations

Several PDRTA routes connect riders to major employers, medical facilities, and shopping centers across the three-county region. Routes link Florence to Darlington and Marlboro, making it possible to reach destinations outside your home county without a transfer. The Florence Transit Center serves as the main hub where routes meet, so many trips require a connection there.

If you are traveling to a destination not directly served by PDRTA, ask at the transit center about connecting to other regional transit systems. South Carolina has several transit authorities that sometimes coordinate service, though schedules and fares vary. The PDRTA staff can tell you whether your destination is reachable by bus and what combination of routes or systems you would need.

Planning Your Trip

Start by finding your home stop and your destination stop on the PDRTA route map. Check the schedule for your route to see what times buses arrive at each stop. Allow extra time for your first trip so you can locate the stop and board without rushing. Bring exact change or your transit card, and be ready to board when the bus arrives—drivers do not always wait if the bus is running behind schedule.

If your trip requires a transfer between routes, check the schedule to make sure you have enough time between buses. Most transfers happen at the Florence Transit Center, where you can wait indoors and ask staff for directions. Download the PDRTA app before your trip so you can track your bus in real time and know when to get ready to exit.

Contact Information and Resources

The PDRTA main office is located in Florence and can be reached by phone during business hours. The Florence Transit Center is open daily and has staff who can answer questions about routes, fares, and schedules in person. You can also visit the PDRTA website to download route maps, view schedules, purchase passes, and register for paratransit.

The PDRTA website includes a trip planner tool that lets you enter your starting point and destination, then shows you which routes and transfers you need. The mobile app provides the same trip planning features plus real-time bus tracking. If you have questions about a specific route or need help planning a complex trip, call or visit the transit center—staff there know the system well and can walk you through your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a bicycle or large bag on the bus?

Most PDRTA buses have bike racks on the front that hold two or three bicycles at no extra charge. Large bags and backpacks are allowed as long as they do not block aisles or seats. Oversized items like luggage may not be permitted—call PDRTA to ask about your specific item before boarding.

What happens if I miss my bus or it does not show up?

If a bus is significantly late, check the PDRTA app or website to see if there is a service alert. If the bus does not arrive within a reasonable time, call PDRTA to report it and ask about the next scheduled bus. Drivers do not always make up time, so plan for the possibility of a late bus when you have an appointment.

Do I need to show ID to ride the bus?

No ID is required to ride PDRTA buses. You only need to pay your fare with cash, a transit card, or a pass. If you are using a monthly pass or transit card registered to you, bring it with you so you can tap it when you board.

Are there discounts for seniors or students?

PDRTA offers reduced fares for seniors and people with disabilities. Students may also be may be able to access for discounts depending on their school or program. Contact PDRTA directly or visit the website to learn what discounts are available and what documentation you need to show.

Can I plan a trip that goes outside the Pee Dee region?

PDRTA only serves Florence, Darlington, and Marlboro counties. If you need to travel beyond this area, ask PDRTA staff about connections to other transit systems or regional bus services. Some destinations may require a combination of PDRTA and another carrier, which can add time and cost to your trip.