Quicker boarding with QR readers on our buses

We're currently rolling out QR readers on our buses across the country, which means boarding the bus with Stagecoach mobile tickets will be even quicker! 

At the moment, QR code readers are available in:

• Oxfordshire
• Merseyside and South Lancashire

How do I scan my mobile ticket?

Once you've activated your mobile ticket, it'll show a QR code above the ticket name. 

Look out for a QR code reader next to the driver, it has a blue line around the reader.

Simply hold your phone steady in front of the reader, it'll light up green and beep to show you're good to go.

Frequently asked questions 

Q. Why have you introduced QR codes?

QR codes have lots of benefits. While it's quicker for you to board, they also minimise fraudulent use of mobile tickets and give us data that helps us understand how you use your tickets.

Q. Does this work for all tickets?

No, this is currently available in two areas and only works with mobile tickets.

In Oxfordshire

You can only scan mobile tickets bought on the Stagecoach Bus App and Oxford Tube App. You won't be able to scan QR mobile tickets on our Service S6 to Swindon or 853 to Cheltenham. Please continue to show the driver your mobile tickets on these services. Stagecoach East tickets will also need to be shown to the driver, even when travelling within Oxfordshire.

In Merseyside and South Lancashire

You can only scan mobile tickets bought on the Stagecoach Bus Mobile App. Arriva M-tickets, that are part of the Quality Partnership Scheme, won't be readable on Stagecoach services. Please continue to show the driver your mobile ticket on these services.

Q. Do I need to have internet for my QR code to scan?

No. You only need to have internet access when you activate your mobile ticket.

Q. Why won't my ticket scan?

Try turning the brightness up on your phone so that the reader can pick up the QR code. If your mobile ticket won't scan because of damage to your phone screen, please show the mobile ticket to the driver.

Q. Why was my ticket rejected?

There are a couple of reasons why your mobile ticket might be rejected. The most common are:

• You're trying to use a mobile ticket outside of the time or travel zone it is valid for.
• You're using a screenshot of a QR code.
• You've shared your QR code and it's already been scanned.
• If none of the above reasons explain why your mobile ticket has been rejected, please check that the time on your phone is correct. 

Q. I’m having trouble with the Stagecoach Bus App, what do I do?

If you’re having an issue buying or activating a mobile ticket, please contact us by filling in our app form.

Q. What if there are multiple people travelling using one phone?

No problem, you’ll need to have a mobile ticket activated on your phone for each passenger, then scan one after the other. 

If you want to know more about the Stagecoach Bus App, please check our app FAQs