RTS REST API

The RTS REST API allows you to obtain data pertaining to the service provided by RTS to the community. Both static and real-time information are provided through the API.

As the API is based on REST principles, using the API is very easy. Any browser can be used to view data, and most HTTP clients in most programming languages can be used to interact with the API. Responses are returned using JSON-P and CORS. Data can be returned as JSON or XML.

Static Data

The static data interfaces  allow you to pull and build static schedules based off the information entered into the schedule building interface.

Real-Time Data

The real-time data interfaces allow you pull real-time information about the trips and buses throughout the RTS service area. This allows you to see where our buses are (updated once per minute) along their trips, how far ahead or behind the buses may be, what stop they are arriving at next, etc.

Code Examples

View code examples on how to use the API.

Getting Started

API key codes are provided on an individual basis.

1. Review our Terms of Use.
   Important: RTS reserves the right to terminate your access if you engage in unacceptable activities or if your application degrades our ability to provide service information to our customers.
2. Fill our the API Key Code Request form.  Submitting the form indicates you accept our Terms of Use.
3. Your API key code will be mailed to you.

Getting Help

RTS does not guarantee of the accuracy of the data provide through the API nor does RTS provide services to guide you through the development of your application. Minimal support is available for the following situations:

• Difficulties with an API key code
• Clarification on a code example or definition
• Answering questions about integration
• Sudden loss of functionality in your application

Send support requests to rbraxton@myRTS.com. Please include your API key code in the email.

Terms of Use for the RTS REST API

Services

RTS makes data available to the community through an application programming interface platform. The Authority provides the platform to give software developers the opportunity to make public transportation a convenient and integrated part of daily life.

RTS does not share sensitive security information. RTS may terminate availability of, support to, or existing access to the platform at any time without prior notice.

Anyone who requests an API access key code from the authority is expected to comply with these Terms of Use.

Personal Information

To access the API data, you must provide basic personal information. Your information is:

• Used to create a unique API key code
• Used when responding to support requests
• Stored in an internal secured database

Information stored on an RTS system or database may be subject to a request for records under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL); in connection with a discovery request in a lawsuit; or in connection with another type of legal proceeding.

Certain activities, whether legal or illegal, may be harmful to RTS systems, violate RTS rules or subject you to a liability. RTS will immediately terminate API access and support for any user connected to such activities. These activities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Malicious cycle pinging, calling or spamming the API platform.
• Engaging in automated uses of the API that are abusive or disruptive to the services.
• Impersonating another user or individual or misrepresenting your affiliation with an individual or entity.
• Distributing information that is false or inaccurate with the intent to deceive.
• Using the services in a manner that is inconsistent with applicable law.
• Using the services in a manner that jeopardize public safety and security.
• Infringing copyrights, trademarks, patents or other proprietary rights under applicable law.

Data Accuracy

RTS is neither liable for inaccuracies in API data nor for any effect that errors or inaccuracies may have on end users. RTS makes no guarantee of data availability or technical support to API users/developers.

Key Code Security

You are responsible for safeguarding your assigned API key code. Do not share it with others for development purposes or disclose it to a third party.