FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / WEBSITE HELP

To improve the customer experience, Go511.com tracks this website using Google Analytics.
If this website stops working, please disable any tracker-blocker software, and whitelist our website in your browser. 

General

 

What is Southern California 511?
511 is a free phone number and website that provides traffic, public transit,  commuter service information, and specialized information for Veterans to Southern California.  In addition, Go511.com now offers personalized traffic alerts to registered users via text message or email. Call 511 or visit Go511.com to get all the information you need to make smart traveling decisions: check traffic speeds, plan a trip on a bus or train, and find a carpool or vanpool partner. 511 will help improve your commute and keep you informed about travel conditions both before you leave the house and while you are on the road.

How did 511 get started?
The U.S. Department of Transportation petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 1999 for a three-digit telephone number to make it easier for consumers to access travel information services. The FCC assigned "511" to the transportation community July 21, 2000. The term “511” has now become synonymous with traveler information. Information provided by 511 services varies widely both by provider (ranging from state Departments of Transportation to local transportation and transit agencies) and by information provided (from traffic delays and weather to transit and tourism information). 

How do I connect to 511 in Southern California and other areas?
To connect to 511, you need to call from an area where the service is provided. If you are having trouble reaching 511 from your phone, or want to access a 511 system in an area other than Southern California, you can call a toll free number to “back into” the system. The back-in number for Southern California 511 is 877.22.Go511. To find back-in numbers or websites for other 511 systems in the country, visit Surrounding 511 Systems.

What area does Southern California 511 cover?
Southern California 511 supplies information about five counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and Ventura. You can reach 511 by calling from Los Angeles, Orange or Ventura Counties or by dialing 877.22.Go511 outside of Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties.

San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego Counties operate separate 511 systems. To reach them, call 511 from those counties, or call their back-in 1-800 numbers.

What information can I get from 511?
511 provides information about live traffic, public transit, FasTrak, motorist aid, parking and commuter services (carpool and vanpool). 511 can give you traffic reports for specific highways, transfer you to a bus or train agency and help you find a carpool or vanpool partner in your area.

When can I use 511?
You can get up-to-the-minute traffic and transit info in the palm of your hand with the Go511 mobile app, you can call 511 or visit Go511.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How is 511 information different from a regular traffic report on the radio?
With 511, you will receive considerably more route-specific information than you hear on the news, and you can access the information on-demand, whenever you need it.

How often is the information updated?
Information on the site is continually updated. Traffic information is updated every minute. Public transit and carpool/vanpool information is kept as current as possible.

How accessible is 511 for someone who has a vision, speech or hearing impairment?
Go511.com is designed to meet the accessibility policies of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

When calling 511, hearing-impaired users can call the California Relay Service at 711 and ask to be connected to Southern California's 511 service through 877.22.Go511 (877.224.6511). Speech-impaired users can Press *8 (*T) to switch from Voice to the Touch Tone commands. When in Touch Tone mode, users can navigate 511 using the touch keypad only.

Where does the information come from?
Go511 uses a variety of traveler information sources, including California Highway Patrol, Caltrans and transit agencies from across our reporting area (specifically, Los Angeles County, Orange County, Ventura County, San Bernardino County and Riverside County). Speed and travel time information is generated by a third-party who integrates information from several public and private sources.

What if I only want information for my county?
On the Website, you can choose a county at the top right side of any page:

  • LA – Los Angeles
  • OC – Orange County
  • RC – Riverside County
  • SB – San Bernardino County
  • VC – Ventura County

Once you choose a county, information on the Website will be tailored for that county only.

How can I make the site look bigger on my screen?
Simply hold down the control key while pressing the plus (+) key. This will enlarge the site. To make it smaller, hold down the control key while pressing the minus (-) key.

Traffic

What kind of traffic information is available?
On the Go511 mobile app and Go511.com, a map with color-coded traffic speeds helps you instantly see areas to avoid and where the traffic is moving slowly. You can also see where there are road closures, incidents, SigAlerts and bad road conditions. The map allows you to view live cameras along the roadways to give you a snapshot of current road conditions. The home page of the website now offers you the ability to create a route between any two points in our coverage region. Routes provide speed, travel time and reported events that may impact your trip.

Traffic incidents and SigAlerts, construction events, road closures and road conditions are available in list form.  Hover over the "Traffic" menu and select "Traffic List." The Traffic List page provides all traffic content in list form, with the ability to filter by type, direction, start time, county, location, roadway or description. 

Where do I find traffic information?
Traffic information is available when you first point your browser to Go511.com.  In addition, you can go to the Map page by selecting Home from the Main Menu from anywhere on the site, and turning on the Traffic Speeds layer from the Map Legend. 

When calling 511, simply say “traffic” and indicate the area for which you want traffic information. 511 will report traffic speeds, incidents and travel times in that area.

On the Go511 mobile app, view traffic alerts, speeds, SigAlerts, and closures on the map, or go to the Details tab.

What roads are covered by the system?
Information is provided for all major roadways in Southern California, including interstate, state and federal highways. Color-coded traffic speeds are provided for many city streets.

How often is traffic information updated?
Traffic information is updated every minute.

What is a SigAlert?
A SigAlert is any unplanned event that causes the closing of one lane of traffic for 30 minutes or more.
 

Buses and Trains

Trip Planning

 

How do I plan a trip on Go511?
Go511.com now provides two ways to plan your trip! The “Directions” feature (powered by Google Maps) shows incidents and real-time travel times for driving and transit. The Metro Trip Planner, which is the same as before, shows more detailed schedules, real-time travel times, transfers, and costs for Metro bus and rail routes. Both planners will give you the best route for your trip by matching your start and end point to current traffic data and transit schedules. The “My Routes” feature is available on the left side of the Home page.  The Metro Trip Planner can be accessed by clicking the “Metro Trip Planner” button in the routing window.

What area does the 511 Trip Planner cover?
511’s online Trip Planner can plan your driving or transit trip within a five county region that includes Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties. When you call 511, you can plan a trip within Los Angeles and Orange Counties.  

How does the 511 Trip Planner calculate trips?
Transit trips are planned by matching your travel plan information with current traffic data and transit schedules. For transit trip planning, the Trip Planner uses the schedules from over 70 transit agencies in Southern California to help you find the best route for your trip.

How do I use Directions?
The routing feature appears on the home page of Go511.com, under the “Directions” tab,  Whether you are driving or taking transit, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Enter your start and end points, A and B. 
You can manually enter an address, intersection, landmark in the entry fields; use your current location; or click directly on the map, to identify your start and end points in entry fields A and B.

  • Address: enter a street number, a street name and a city (e.g. 1111 Figueroa Street, Los Angeles)
  • Intersection: enter two street names separated by a slash (“/”) character (e.g. King/Main)
  • Landmark: enter the name of a known landmark (e.g. Union Station)
  • Current Location: Click on the location symbols (to the right of the blank entry fields) to use your current location
  • Click on Map:    Right click on an origin or destination directly anywhere on the map. Select the desired location from the dropdown menu. Then choose either “From Here” to set the starting point, or “To Here” to set the ending point.

Step 2: Choose “Drive” or “Transit”

  • Click Drive: Your fastest route will be shown in the side menu and on the map along with alternate routes. Total travel times, distances, and turn-by-turn directions will be shown.
  • Click Transit: Your fastest route will be shown in the side menu and on the map. Travel times and directions for bus or rail, along with walk times and directions to and from the transit stops, will be shown.

Step 3: “Save” if desired

  • If you are logged in with a 511 account, you can keep your trip information by clicking on the “Save” button. You can later access it by going to “My Go511” from the main menu and selecting “My Routes & Alerts”.

 
Step 4: “Reset Route” if desired

  • To clear the current entry and plan a new trip, use the “Reset Route” button. Any routes already saved to your “My Go511” account will still be saved.


How do I use the Trip Planner?
Click on the “Metro Trip Planner” button under “My Routes” on the home page of Go511.com, or, from the main menu, select Plan Your Trip then Metro Trip Planner.  Then, tell us where you're starting from, where you want to go and when you want to go. Our Trip Planner will find the best route to get you there. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Enter your start and end point.
You can enter an address, intersection or landmark to identify your start and end points:

  • Address: enter a street number, a street name and a city (e.g. 1111 Figueroa Street, Los Angeles)
  • Intersection: enter two street names separated by a slash (“/”) character (e.g. King/Main)
  • Landmark: enter the name of a known landmark (e.g. Union Station)

Step 2: Enter when you want to travel.

  • Specify the Day and Time you want to travel using dropdown lists provided.
  • Specify the time you want to travel as either a “leave at” (the time leaving from your start point) or “arrive by” (the time you’d like to arrive at your destination) time.

Step 3: Click on “Plan My Trip”
Once you’ve completed the steps above, the Trip Planner will ask you to confirm your trip. Check to make sure that the Trip Planner found your correct start and end points, and then click on “Plan My Trip” again.

Why does the Trip Planner ask me to “Confirm My Trip” before giving me an itinerary?
If the information that you enter can be interpreted in more than one way, a list of possible matches is returned. Simply select the correct start and end points and proceed by clicking on “Plan My Trip” at the bottom of the page.

Why didn't the Trip Planner recognize a well-known landmark?
The Trip Planner recognizes many landmarks in its coverage area, but some types of landmarks are not included. If the landmark you entered is one of the supported types, it may have a "formal" name different from what you entered. We are expanding our database of alternate names for landmarks. If you would like a landmark name added, please give us your feedback.

Sometimes the Trip Planner takes a long time to give me my itinerary. Why?
Some trips may have many possible solutions. It may take the Trip Planner more time to find the right trip to fit your travel plans.

Why couldn’t the Trip Planner find an itinerary for my trip?
Sometimes the Trip Planner will not be able to find an itinerary for your trip because:

  1. No transit agencies serve your start and/or end points
  2. The time and/or day you want to travel are outside of normal service operation
  3. The trip planner is currently out of service

If the Trip Planner is not returning an itinerary, you can also try Metro’s Trip Planner or Google Transit to help plan your trip.

How can I tell if a route is affected by construction, an event, or other reroutes?
Notices of these conditions are maintained by the individual transit agencies and will show up on the real-time map.

The Trip Planner gave me an itinerary with a transfer. I was at the transfer location, but missed my bus. What happened?
The Trip Planner plans itineraries based on scheduled bus arrival times, and allows enough time between transfers for you to make your connection. The Trip Planner does not account for buses and trains that might be running late or early. If your bus or train is not running according to schedule, you might miss your connection.
 

The trip itinerary I am getting does not seem right. What should I do?
Check to make sure that your start and end points are correct. If the trip itinerary still seems wrong, please let us know. Your feedback will help us improve the Trip Planner functionality and pinpoint problem areas.


Can 511 help me plan a trip on a bus or train?
Yes. Use the Trip Planner to help find the trip that’s right for you. Or call 511 to find a trip or be transferred to a customer service agent who can help you plan your trip.

What public transportation agencies are included in 511? Most transportation agencies in Southern California are included in 511. If you are looking for a specific agency that is not included, contact us and we will work to get your agency added to 511.

Personalized Services

Go511.com now offers personalization, allowing you to save routes and then create alerts for those routes when there are incidents reported on the roads that make up the route.  Users must first create an account by registering, using the “**Register” link at the top right of the screen.
The “Register” link will provide a form that asks for your information. Only the fields marked with a red asterisk * are mandatory to use the feature properly.

  • Name*
  • Email*
  • Password*
  • Confirm Password*
  • Address 1
  • Address 2
  • City
  • State
  • Zip Code
  • Phone Number

 
Once you have created a registered account, you will then receive a confirmation email sent to the address you provided.  You will be instructed to click on the link in the email to confirm your account.

As a registered user, you can manage your account by using the “My Go511” link at the top of the page.

Once you have a registered account, routes you create on the home page can be saved to your account. From the Home page,  create a route using a starting point and destination. 
 
Saving Routes
To save a route, create one as described above, by entering or choosing an origin, destination, and mode of travel. When you are logged in as a registered user, the route panel will offer you the option to save, and name the route. 
 
Creating and Managing Alerts
Saved routes can then be used to generate alerts. Under the “My Go511” link, choose “My Routes and Alerts” which will take you to a page that displays all saved routes.  The page gives you the chance to view the route on the map, delete the route, edit the route, or create an alert.  By clicking “Create Alert”, you will then see a form that prompts you to enter:

  • Alert Name
  • Travel Time
  • Traffic Speed
  • Events
  • Notification Types
  • Days of the Week
  • Time Period
  • Daily Alert Summary
  • Delivery Options

 
Emergency Alerts
You can create an emergency alert, which will get sent to you when an emergency has been reported.  This alert can be sent to you on any day, at any time.  To tell the system you want to be alerted in case an emergency is reported, click on the “Create Emergency Alert” button.  This will take you to a page that asks if you want to be alerted by email, or by SMS (text message).  In addition, you can select one, some, or all counties in the coverage area. 

Motorist Aid Services

When your car breaks down it can be a very troubling situation, and imagine when you break down on a freeway. Did your car over heat, have a flat tire, or run out of gas? When a vehicle breaks down on the freeway, it causes congestion and other drivers become interested in what is happening on the side of the road, which can slow traffic down and contribute to accidents. In an effort to help speed things up on our freeways, the Los Angeles County Service Authority for Freeway Emergencies (LA SAFE) and our partners have developed motorist aid programs that can help a motorist on the freeway. Examples of Motorist Aid Services include:

  • Freeway Service Patrol (FSP)
  • Call Boxes

* regular cell phone minute charges may apply
 

Regional Guaranteed Ride Home Program

What is the Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program? 
It is "commuter insurance" for those who carpool, take transit, vanpool, bicycle or walk to work on the day the emergency ride is needed. The Regional GRH Program allows you to choose the most efficient means to get where you need to go during a qualified emergency. If you are without your car and experience an emergency, the GRH Program will reimburse your ride, whether you choose a one-way taxi ride, one-day car rental, or transit ticket (public bus, Metro Rail or Metrolink).

How does GRH work? 
GRH is designed to be as easy to use as possible, with minimal administration.

  • The employer worksite must be located in the County of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside or San Bernardino.
  • To participate, your company must enroll by completing a Service Agreement (in Los Angeles or Orange Counties) or an Employer Partnership Agreement (in Riverside or San Bernardino Counties) and meet the requirements outlined by each agency.
  • Employers must designate an employer representative to administer the GRH Program, agree to adhere to the GRH Guidelines, and distribute materials designed for the program.
  • Once the employer enrolls in the GRH Program, all employees who rideshare to work are eligible for the GRH reimbursement. Employees do not sign up individually.
  • The Regional GRH Program allows ridesharing employees to choose the most efficient means to get where they need to go during a qualified emergency. The GRH Program will reimburse a one-way taxi ride, one-day car rental, or transit ticket (public bus, Metro Rail, or Metrolink) to get them to their destination.
  • Depending on your company’s internal GRH policy, either the employer or the employee will pay up-front for the employee’s selected emergency ride.
  • If the GRH Program was included in your South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Rule 2202 Plan as a basic/support strategy, then it is the employer’s responsibility to arrange for the ride and provide a ride home at no out-of-pocket cost to your employees. You, as the employer, can submit invoices under the GRH Program for reimbursement for all qualified rides without affecting compliance.
  • Once the employee provides the employer with a valid receipt from the service provider (taxi/rental car/Metrolink/Metro Rail or transit agency), the employer will complete and submit a GRH Reimbursement Claim Form to the GRH office within 30 days of the GRH usage date.
  • The GRH office will review the GRH Reimbursement Claim Form. Upon approval, the GRH office will send the reimbursement check to the employer, who will then pass the reimbursement on to the appropriate party.

What is a qualified GRH emergency? 
Emergency circumstances that qualify for a reimbursable ride home under the GRH Program include:

  • Personal illness/emergency
  • Unexpected illness/emergency of an immediate family member
  • Carpool/vanpool driver has an emergency or unexpected overtime
  • Supervisor requires employee to work unscheduled overtime

What does not qualify as a GRH emergency?

Situations which do not qualify as an emergency under the GRH Program include:

  • Personal errands
  • Non-emergency appointments/meetings/doctor visits
  • Voluntary overtime
  • Public transportation disruptions or delays for any reason
  • Termination/Lay-offs
  • A ride to work
  • Business travel
  • Inclement weather
  • Any trip where alternate transportation could be arranged in advance
  • On-the-job injury
  • Breakdown of vanpool that would normally be covered by leasing company

What are valid GRH destinations? 
The GRH Program offers flexibility, allowing you to choose from a variety of destinations that serve your unique needs, including:

  • Home
  • Personal vehicle (if you are parked at a Park & Ride lot or transit station)
  • Medical facility
  • Daycare or school
  • Interim stops will also be accepted if they are part of the emergency

Who pays for GRH? 
Either the employer or the employee must pay for the emergency ride upfront. After submitting a GRH Reimbursement Claim Form, the GRH Program will reimburse the cost for qualified rides directly to the appropriate party.

How often can I use GRH? 
Each ridesharing employee working at a participating company can use the program up to two (2) times in a 12-month period.

Guaranteed Ride Home is sponsored by Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Bernardino Associated Governments, and Ventura County Transportation Commission.
 

Toll Roads/FasTrak

What is FasTrak?

FasTrak is an electronic toll-collection system that allows drivers to travel without stopping. Your toll is automatically deducted from a prepaid account using a transponder that is mounted on the inside of your windshield.

How is FasTrak used?

Drivers will need to sign up for a FasTrak account and mount a FasTrak transponder in their vehicle. FasTrak can be used to pay tolls on all California toll roads, toll lanes and toll bridges. For more information, call 511 and say “FasTrak” or click here.

Where are the toll roads?

In Los Angeles County, the I-10 and I-110 Metro ExpressLanes are toll roads. In Orange County, The Toll Roads are State Routes 73, 133, 241 and 261, and the 91 Express Lanes.

Why use the toll roads?

Toll roads offer the option of a faster trip by improving traffic flow, provide reliable travel when other highways and streets are congested, reduce stress and save up to 30 minutes in travel time.
 

LA Express Park/Downtown LA Parking

What is the LA Express Park™ program?

The program uses technology to increase the availability of limited parking spaces, reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, and encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation.

Where is the program area?

The program area is a 4.5-square-mile area in Downtown LA, bounded by the 10 and 110 freeways, Alameda Street and Adams Boulevard.

What makes LA Express Park unique compared to similar programs in other cities?

LA Express Park has several features, including on-street parking guidance signs, and parking guidance through the 511 interactive voice response phone system. Anyone with a phone can call 511 and receive real-time information on parking rates and availability within the LA Express Park™ service area.

Will LADOT put meters in areas that do not currently have meters as a result of the bounded area?

At this time, there are no plans to add or remove any meters as part of the LA Express Park™ in downtown.

What will happen if I park in a space with a broken meter?

If the meter is unable to accept both coins and credit cards, you will not receive a ticket. However, if the meter does accept coins while the credit card mechanism is broken, or vice versa, you must pay using the working payment method or you will be subject to ticketing. When parking at a broken meter, you will still be subject to the posted time limit. Staying beyond the posted time limit may result in a ticket.

Will LA Express Park expand their program area?

Yes, LA Express Park is expanding into Westwood Village beginning in summer 2014 and Hollywood in 2015. Occupancy sensors, smart meters, and wayfinding will be installed in these areas to make finding parking easier and reduce congestion caused by vehicles searching for parking.
 

Extras

Is there information about bicycling?
Yes. Click here.

Can 511 help me find tourist information, including airports in the area?
In the future, 511 will provide information about local tourist destinations. Currently, you can use Go511.com for quick links to airports in Southern California.

Contact Us

How do I give feedback on the Website?
You can provide your comments through the Feedback link, which is at the bottom of every page on the Website.
 

511 On The Phone

 

General

 

Is there a charge to call 511?
There is no cost for using 511. Calls made to 511 from your cell phone will only cost you the minutes used during the calls.

Is 511 available in languages other than English?
At this time, 511 is only available in English. A Spanish language version will be available in the future.

Why can't 511 understand what I say?
511 is voice activated and sometimes picks up background noise. Background noise from radios, nearby conversations, vehicles and street noise may interfere with the 511’s ability to understand what you’re saying.

If rolling up the windows, turning down the music or finding a quiet spot doesn’t help, a better option is to use your touch-tone keypad. Simply press *8 at anytime to switch from voice to touch-tone keypad commands.

Why doesn't 511 work when I call from my cell phone?
If you can’t connect to 511, your cell phone provider most likely does not provide access to it. We currently provide 511 access for most of the Southern California region. Please contact your cell phone provider directly and report the problem. In the meantime, you can call 877.22.Go511 to access Southern California 511.

Why was 511 busy when I called?
It’s possible that 511 may be experiencing an unusually high volume of calls when you called. Try calling 511 again after a few minutes. If you still receive a busy tone, then contact us to report the issue.

How can I get the information that I want, faster?
An easy way to get the information is to say what you want without waiting for 511 to complete the questions. In other words, you can interrupt 511 while it’s asking a question. For example, as soon as 511 asks: “What can I help with,” you can say “traffic on the four oh five” without waiting to hear the entire question.

Another way of getting information faster is to use shortcuts. Shortcuts are specific words that can be said at the Main Menu to take you directly to the feature you want. Please refer to the next question, What specific words can I say to get the information I want, faster to learn more about shortcuts you can use.

You can also say the following at anytime during your call for faster navigation:

  • “Main Menu” takes you directly back to the Main Menu
  • “Repeat” tells you the information again
  • “Start Over” takes you to the top level menu of the current state
  • “Go Back” to return to a previous menu

What specific words can I say to get the information I want, faster?
You can say any of the following specific words and go directly to that area of 511:

  • For Traffic Information: Say: “Traffic on [Highway/Freeway] [Direction]”: This takes you directly to the Traffic and Travel Time reports for the specified freeway. Example: say “Traffic on the 710 south” or “Traffic on the 60 east”
  • For Public Transit Information: Say: “Agency Name” This transfers your call to the transit agency you’d like to talk to. Example: say “Metrolink” or “OCTA”
  • For Commute Services Information: Saying a specific service will transfer you to someone who can help. Example: say “Carpool”, “Vanpool”, or “Park and Ride lots”

How do I use 511 if I'm hearing-impaired?
Hearing-impaired users can call the California Relay Service at 711 and ask to be connected to Southern California's 511 service at 877.22.Go511 (877.224.6511).

How do I use 511 if I'm speech-impaired?
Speech-impaired users can Press *8 (*T) to switch from Voice to the Touch Tone commands. When in Touch Tone mode, users can navigate 511 using the touch keypad only. Or call the California Relay Service at 711 and ask to be connected to Southern California's 511 service through 877.22.Go511 (877.224.6511).

How can I get help when I call 511?
You can get help in 511 by saying “Help” at any time during your call to hear options for the current menu. You can also press the star (*) key on your touch tone keypad to get help.

What kind of help will a 511 operator give me?
If you are having trouble getting the information you want, you can be transferred to an operator who can help you. The operator will ask you what information you’re looking for, much like 511 does, and then the operator will transfer you back into 511 so you can hear the information requested.

When I’m in San Diego, San Bernardino or Riverside Counties, I can’t reach Southern California 511. Why?
Southern California 511 supplies information about five counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and Ventura. However, you can only reach this 511 system by calling from Los Angeles, Orange or Ventura Counties.

511 is also available in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, but is a different system. To access this system, call 511 from one of these counties.

To access San Diego’s 511, call 511 while in San Diego or visit San Diego 511.

To see a listing of other surrounding 511 programs, visit Surrounding Systems.

How do I give my feedback on the 511 service?
You can provide feedback by saying “Feedback” or pressing *3 (Star 3) from the touch-tone keypad at any time during your call, and 511 will prompt you to leave a recorded message.

Traffic

 

What kind of traffic information will 511 give me when I call?
511 will give you on-demand traffic information specific to your route. 511 gives up to date information on traffic speeds, travel times and incidents such as road construction, lane closures and accidents on interstate highways and state routes in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and Ventura Counties.

Tell 511 a roadway name, direction and exit. 511 will tell you the following for that area:

  • Traffic Speed: 511 will tell you the average traffic speed on the freeway area you ask about.
  • Incidents: 511 will tell you if there is an accident, road closure or any other event that might delay traffic.
  • Travel Time Information: 511 will tell you the travel time between the area you asked about and the next three freeway interchanges.

How can I get the traffic information I want on the phone?
When you call 511, you will be asked if you want information on traffic, public transit or commuter services. To get traffic information, follow these simple steps:

  1. At the Main Menu, say “Traffic” or Press 1.
  2. 511 will ask you “Where do you want traffic info for?” Say a freeway or state route number.
  3. 511 will ask you the direction you’re traveling. Say north, south, east or west.
  4. 511 will ask you to “Tell me an exit”. Say an exit name or exit number.

Once 511 knows what freeway, direction and exit you want traffic information for, 511 will read you the traffic report for that area.

To get the information faster, simply say the freeway name, direction and exit name in one sentence at the Main Menu. For example, you can say “Traffic on the 405 north at Wilshire Boulevard” instead of saying each piece of information separately.

Are there easy shortcuts for getting traffic information faster?
Yes. Instead of waiting for 511 to ask you each individual question about your freeway, direction and exit, you can simply say everything in one sentence at the Main Menu. For example, you can say “Traffic on the 405 north at Wilshire Boulevard” instead of saying each piece of information separately.

What freeways and roadways can I ask 511 about?
You can ask about all major roadways in Southern California, including interstate, state and federal highways. In the future, 511 will also provide traffic information for major arterial roads.

Can I ask about multiple freeways in a single call?
Yes, you can ask about traffic on multiple freeways in a single call. Once 511 has read out the information on the first freeway, you can go back to the Traffic Menu and request for information on another freeway. Another option is to say “Main Menu” and then say the name of the freeway. In case you don’t want to hear the complete traffic information for the freeway you requested initially, you can say “Start Over” (or Press *7 from your touch-tone keypad) to go back to the Traffic menu and request for information for another freeway.

Does 511 have traffic information for specific areas or traffic hotspots?
Yes, 511 will give you traffic information for heavily traveled areas, called traffic hotspots. You can hear traffic reports for hotspots by saying “Traffic” and then saying the traffic hotspot name in the Traffic Menu. Traffic hotspots include:

  • Anaheim Convention Center
  • Angel Stadium
  • Bob Hope Airport
  • Bolsa Chica Beach
  • Cahuenga Pass
  • Cajon Summit
  • Cal State University Long Beach
  • Calabasas Grade
  • City of Hope
  • Conejo Grade
  • Devore Cutoff
  • Disneyland
  • Dodger Stadium
  • Downtown LA
  • East LA Interchange
  • El Monte Busway
  • El Toro Y
  • Exposition Park
  • Four Level
  • Fox Hills Transit Center
  • Glendora Curve
  • Grapevine
  • Greek Theatre
  • Griffith Park
  • Harbor Transitway
  • Hollywood Bowl
  • Hollywood Park
  • Home Depot Center
  • Honda Center
  • Huntington Beach
  • Irvine Spectrum
  • John Wayne Airport
  • Kellogg Hill
  • Knotts Berry Farm
  • Kodak Theatre
  • LA Convention Center
  • LA Live
  • LAX
  • Long Beach Airport
  • Long Beach Aquarium
  • Los Alamitos Curve
  • Magic Mountain
  • McClure Tunnel
  • Moreno Valley Interchange
  • Newhall Pass
  • Nokia Theatre
  • Ontario Airport
  • Ontario Mills Mall
  • Orange County Fairgrounds
  • Orange Crush
  • Pomona Fairgrounds
  • Raging Waters
  • Riverside Interchange
  • Rose Hills
  • San Bernardino Split
  • San Clemente Historical Society
  • San Manuel Pavilion
  • Santa Ana Spur
  • Santa Ana Zoo
  • Santa Anita Racetrack
  • Santa Monica Airport
  • Santa Monica Beach
  • Santa Susana Pass
  • Seal Beach
  • Sepulveda Pass
  • Skirball
  • South Bay Curve
  • South Coast Plaza
  • Staples Center
  • The District at Tustin Legacy
  • The Forum
  • The Getty
  • The Grove at Anaheim
  • The Shops at Mission Viejo
  • Tustin Marketplace
  • Tyler Mall
  • UCI
  • UCLA
  • UCR
  • Union Station
  • Universal City
  • Universal Studios
  • USC
  • Van Nuys Airport
  • Ventura County Fairgrounds
  • Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
  • Victoria Gardens
  • Vincent Thomas Bridge
  • Westminster Mall
  • Wild Rivers

Why can’t 511 give me the exact travel time for my entire trip?

511 will give you the travel time between the area you asked about and the next four consecutive freeway interchanges. 511 currently gives segmented travel times from one freeway interchange to another freeway interchange. You can get travel times for your entire trip by listening to the travel times along each of the segments you’re traveling on. In the future, 511 will give you the entire travel time from the start to the end of your trip.

Can 511 give me a list a freeways that serve my area?
To hear the list of freeways that serve a particular area, simply say “Traffic” in the Main Menu and then say “Freeway List”. You can also use your phone’s touch-tone keypad and dial 777. 511 will ask you what city you need a freeway list for, and will list the freeways in or near that particular city.
 

Public Transit

 

What is the 511 Automated Phone Trip Planner?
The 511 Automated Trip Planner will tell you the best bus or train route for your trip by matching your start and end point to current transit schedules. It will also tell you how long your trip will take, if there are any transfers involved and how much the trip will cost. The phone Trip Planner is fully voice activated, so simply tell 511 your travel preferences and listen for your itinerary.

What area does the 511 Automated Phone Trip Planner cover?
511’s Trip Planner can plan your transit trip within Los Angeles and Orange Counties. If you need to travel outside of these two Counties, 511 will transfer you to an agency that can help you plan your trip.

How does the Trip Planner calculate trips?
Transit trips are planned by matching your travel plan information against current transit schedules. The Trip Planner uses the schedules from over 60 transit agencies in Southern California to help you find the best route for your trip.

How do I use the Trip Planner on the phone?
If your trip is within Los Angeles and Orange Counties, your trip can be planned using the following steps on 511’s Automated Trip Planner. Otherwise, 511 will transfer you to someone who can help you plan your trip.

  1. Give 511 your trip’s start city and end city

  2. 511 will ask if your start and end point is an “Address”, “Intersection” or “Landmark”. You can say something like:
    • “1111 Figueroa Street” (Address)
    • “King and Main” (Intersection) or
    • “Union Station” (Landmark)
  3. Give 511 the day you want to travel. You can say something like:
    • “Today”
    • “Tomorrow” or
    • “July 4th”
  4. To help pick the right schedule, tell 511 whether you want “Leave at a certain time” or “Arrive by a certain time”.

  5. Give 511 the time you want to travel. You can say something like:
    • “9 AM” or
    • “3:30 PM”
  6. 511 will give you your itinerary and fare information. You can control what you hear by saying “Next”, “Previous”, “Pause” “Repeat” or “Stop”.

  7. After listening to your itinerary, have the option to:
    • Plan a Round Trip
    • Plan a Different Route or
    • Plan a New Trip

Why didn't the Trip Planner recognize a well-known landmark?
The Trip Planner recognizes many landmarks in its coverage area, but some types of landmarks are not included. If your landmark is one of the supported types, it may have a "formal" name different from what you said. We are expanding our database of alternate names for landmarks. If you would like a landmark name added, please give us your feedback.

Sometimes the Trip Planner takes a long time to give me my itinerary. Why?
Some trips may have many possible solutions. It may take the Trip Planner more time to find the right trip to fit your travel plans.

Why couldn’t the Trip Planner find an itinerary for my trip?
Sometimes the Trip Planner will not be able to find an itinerary for your trip because:

  1. No transit agencies serve your start and/or end points
  2. The time/day you want to travel are outside of normal service operation
  3. The trip planner is currently out of service

If the Trip Planner is not returning an itinerary, change your start/end points or time/day of travel. If the Trip Planner is still not returning an itinerary, simply ask for “General Transit Information” at the top of the Public Transit menu. 511 will transfer you to an agency in your area that can help you plan your trip.

How can I tell if a route is affected by construction, an event, or other reroutes?
Notices of these conditions are maintained by the individual transit agencies. Call 511 and say the name of the transit provider you’re traveling with. 511 will transfer you to that agency.

I used the Trip Planner to get a trip plan that had a transfer. I was at the transfer location, but missed my bus. What happened?
The Trip Planner plans itineraries based on scheduled bus arrival times, and allows enough time between transfers for you to make your connection. The Trip Planner does not account for buses and trains that might be running late or early. If your bus or train is not running according to schedule, you might miss your connection.

The trip itinerary I am getting does not seem right. What should I do?
Check to make sure that your start and end points are correct. If the trip itinerary still seems wrong, please let us know. Your feedback will help us improve the Trip Planner functionality and pinpoint problem areas. You can also leave feedback by calling 511 and saying “Feedback”.

What is the 511 Automated Phone Scheduled Departure Times?
Scheduled Departure Times is a tool that gives you the next scheduled bus or train arrival times for your stop within a two-hour time period.

What area does the 511 Automated Phone Scheduled Departure Times cover?
511’s Scheduled Departure Times can plan your transit trip within Los Angeles and Orange Counties. If you need to travel outside of these two Counties, 511 will transfer you to an agency that can help you plan your trip.

How do I use the Scheduled Departure Times on the phone?
To find out when the next scheduled but or train will arrive, follow these simple steps:

  1. Tell 511 your City
  2. Tell 511 the Transit Provider and the Bus or Train Line you want.
  3. Tell 511 the Direction of travel. If you don’t know, 511 will tell you the scheduledbus arrival times for both directions.
  4. Tell 511 the name of the boarding Stop or Station you want travel times for
  5. Listen as 511 gives you the arrival times for your route and stop
  6. After you have listened to the arrival times, you can tell 511 to Repeat, choose a Different Stop, or choose a Different Line.

My bus did not arrive at the time that Scheduled Departure Times told me it would. Why?
Buses can be delayed by traffic, a mechanical problem or other circumstances causing them to be off schedule. Scheduled Departure Times uses scheduled bus arrival time information instead of real-time information, so sometimes the actual bus arrival time will not match the scheduled time given by Scheduled Departure Times.

Why doesn’t Scheduled Departure Times use real-time instead of scheduled information?
At this time, Scheduled Departure Times includes only scheduled information. Once all transit providers have bus-tracking technology, real-time information will be available.

My transit provider is not included in Scheduled Departure Times. How can I get my provider’s bus schedules added?
You can request that your transit provider’s schedules are added to Scheduled Departure Times through the Feedback link, which is at the bottom of every page on the website. Your request to add a transit provider to Scheduled Departure Times will be considered as we work to improve 511.

I entered all of the required information, and Scheduled Departure Times said “No scheduled trips can be found at this time”. Why?
Scheduled Departure Times will not be able to provide you with transit arrival information if your bus or train route is not in operation at the time you enter all of the required information.
 

Commuter Services

What is Commuter Services?
Commuter Services can help you find a better route to work by providing Rideshare Services, Bicycling Information and Public Transit Information. Simply say what you want, and 511 will help you or transfer you to an agent that will give you the information you need.
 

Rideshare
Saying “Rideshare” will transfer you to an agent that can help you with the following:

  • Carpool and Vanpool matching (say “carpool” or “vanpool”)
  • Guaranteed Ride Home information (say “guaranteed ride home”)
  • Finding a Park & Ride lot (say “park and ride”)
  • Employer Rideshare Programs (say “employer programs”)

Since Rideshare information is based on the city you work in, 511 will ask you “What area do you work in?”. Say the city you work in and 511 will transfer you to an agent that will provide you with Rideshare Services you’re requesting.

Bicycle
You can say “bicycle” to reach the bicycle section. After you say the city name when 511 asks “Which city do you want bicycle information for?”, 511 transfers you to the bicycle agency of that particular city. If you already know the name of the bicycle agency, just say it and 511 will transfer your call directly to that agency.

Public Transit and Metrolink
You can say “transit” to reach the Public Transit section. You can choose which type of transit services to hear about, or ask to speak to a specific transit agency. If you don’t know the name of the Transit agency, then tell 511 the name of the city and it will transfer you to the transit Agency that serves that city. If you already know the name of the transit agency, just say it and 511 will transfer your call directly to that transit agency.

How can 511 help me find a carpool or vanpool?
Call 511 and say “Carpool” or “Vanpool” at the Main Menu. Since carpool and vanpool matching is based on the city you work in, 511 will ask you “What area do you work in?”. Say the city you work in and 511 will transfer you to an agent that will help you find a carpool partner or vanpool program in your area.

How can I quickly get transferred to an agent that can match me with a carpool or vanpool partner?
To get transferred quickly, say the name of the County you work in followed by “Rideshare” at the Main Menu. For example, if you work in Orange County, simply say “Orange County Rideshare” and 511 will transfer you to an agent that will help you find a carpool partner or vanpool program in your area.

How can I find information about Park & Ride lots?
Say “Park and Ride” at the Main Menu. Since Park & Ride lot information is based on the city you work in, 511 will ask you “What area do you work in?” Say the city you work in and 511 will transfer you to an agent that will help you find a Park & Ride lot.

Can 511 help me find bicycle maps for Southern California?
Yes. 511 can transfer you to the Bicycle agency that can provide you with the bicycle maps. At the Main Menu, say “bicycle” to reach the bicycle menu. After you say the city name when 511 asks “Which city do you want bicycle information for?”, 511 transfers the call to the bicycle agency of that particular city. If you already know the name of the bicycle agency, just say it and 511 will transfer your call directly to that agency.

Surrounding 511 Systems

511 is available in neighboring areas, and across the country. Neighboring 511s include:

San Bernardino and Riverside
Inland Empire 511
Call 877.694.3511

San Francisco/Oakland
Bay Area 511
Call 866.736.7433

Sacramento/Northern California
Sacramento 511
Call 877.511.8747

San Diego
San Diego 511
Call 800.215.4551

Arizona
Arizona 511
Call 888.411.7623

Nevada
Nevada 511
Call 877. 687.6237

 

211 and 311 Services

211 is a community information and referral service offering information about a variety of local services, including but not limited to health, disaster information, childcare, senior services, counseling, food, shelter, and jobs. To find out if there is a 211 service in your area, click below for a directory of counties offering 211, then select your county.

www.ca.gov/211directory.html

311 is a non-emergency city services telephone service offered by some cities in California. To find out if there is a 311 service in your area, click below for a directory of cities offering 311, then select the city for which you want information.

www.ca.gov/311directory.html

Park & Ride Lots

Park & Ride lots provide a convenient place to park for easy connection with your carpool, vanpool, bus or train. They're usually free, although occasionally permits or fees may be required.

Los Angeles County

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has more than 100 convenient Park & Ride locations countywide. Most Park & Ride lots in LA County are free. Some offer reserved spaces for a fee, while a few others have paid parking only.

Visit Metro's Park & Ride site for more specific information on Park & Ride lots serving Metro transportation services.

Orange County

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has 16 convenient Park & Ride locations countywide with more than 2,000 parking spaces. The Park & Ride lots in Orange County are free but some do require a permit.

Learn more about Park & Ride lots in Orange County.

Riverside County

The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), Caltrans and various cities operate more than 20 Park & Ride lots countywide. Learn more about Park & Ride lots in Riverside County.

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), Caltrans and various cities operate more than 20 Park & Ride lots countywide. Learn more about Park & Ride lots in San Bernardino County.

Ventura County

The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), Caltrans, and various cities operate more than 20 Park & Ride lots countywide. Learn more about Park & Ride lots in Ventura County.

Southern California Airports

If you are traveling to or from Southern California by air, you have a choice of many commercial airports in the region.

The major gateway to Los Angeles is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). LAX is serviced by more than 85 major airlines. Burbank's Bob Hope Airport serves the San Fernando Valley with six airlines. Four airlines serve the Long Beach Airport. John Wayne/Orange County Airport serves Orange County with seven airlines, including four commuter carriers. Ontario International Airport serves the San Bernardino-Riverside area with a dozen airlines.