What Does GTFS Stand For?
GTFS stands for General Transit Feed Specification.
GTFS is the industry-standard "language" used by transit agencies to share their schedules, routes, and stops with apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps. It's what makes it possible for you to see "next bus in 5 mins" on your phone.
The Name's History
Back in 2005, Google partnered with TriMet (Portland, Oregon's transit agency) to create a way to show bus schedules on a map. Originally, the "G" stood for Google.
As the format took off and started being used by everyone, the name was shifted to General Transit Feed Specification. This made it clear that it's a global, open standard, not just something owned by Google.
What is a "Feed"?
When we say "feed," we just mean a collection of text files. Technically, it's a ZIP archive filled with simple CSV files:
• agency.txt: Basic info about the bus or train company.
• stops.txt: Exactly where the stops are on a map.
• routes.txt: The different lines (like "The 42 Express").
• trips.txt: Every individual journey a vehicle makes.
• stop_times.txt: The actual schedule (arrival and departure times).
• calendar.txt: Which days the service actually runs.
Bundled together, these files tell an app everything it needs to know to guide a rider from point A to point B.
GTFS vs GTFS-RT
You might also see "GTFS-RT" or "GTFS-Realtime." This is a companion specification that provides live data – actual vehicle positions, predicted arrival times, and service alerts. The original GTFS (sometimes called "GTFS Static" or "GTFS Schedule") contains planned timetables, while GTFS-RT streams real-time updates.
Who Maintains GTFS?
GTFS is now maintained by MobilityData, a nonprofit organization. Changes to the specification go through a community process with input from transit agencies, app developers, and other stakeholders.
Related Questions
• How do I create a GTFS file?
Working with GTFS data? Validate your feed to catch errors before publishing.