How Metrobus Route Names Work
Washington's Metrobus route names use letters to identify areas served. The system is set out in WMATA's route naming guide, with categories for the District and surrounding jurisdictions.
The June 2025 redesign
Metro launched its redesigned bus network on June 29, 2025. WMATA described the change as its first major bus network overhaul in 50 years. Montgomery County Ride On and Prince George's County TheBus also changed their service.
The launch announcement, published June 27, 2025, said all Metrobus routes would receive new names. It described a system designed to make trips faster, reduce transfers and simplify schedules, with more frequent and reliable service among the agency's stated aims for Washington, Maryland and Virginia.
For many routes, WMATA announced enhanced service, updated schedules and new destinations. The announcement also called for approximately 5% fewer stops as part of its effort to improve speed and reliability.
Crosstown and downtown
Within the District, two initial letters distinguish service areas. C stands for crosstown D.C., while D stands for downtown D.C.
After the DC Streetcar
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) ended DC Streetcar service on March 31, 2026, after about a decade of operation in the District. In its streetcar closure notice, DDOT acknowledged the contributions of riders, employees and community members who had supported the service. The agency said it was coordinating closely with WMATA Metrobus on travel alternatives for current riders throughout the H Street Corridor, including WMATA's D20 bus. The D20's opening D is the downtown-D.C. prefix used in Metrobus names.
The regional prefixes
Outside Washington, the first letter identifies the following areas:
- A covers Arlington and Alexandria.
- F covers Fairfax City, Fairfax County and Falls Church.
- M covers Montgomery County.
- P covers Prince George's County.
What the final X means
An X at the end of a route name marks limited-stop service.