Do Bus Tickets Have To Be Validated?
 

Do I have to validate my ticket when I get on the bus in Paris? Will buy a carnet of tickets from a tabac for the week.

Yes - enter the front door and validate your ticket. Exit through rear door. Re-validate the ticket if you transfer...

Of course, if you didn't validate it, then you could use it forever.

...Until the transit police fine you a hefty amount, as happened to a traveling companion of mine.

In the double-length buses that operate on some lines, there are validators at every door (front, middle and back) to insert your ticket.

Bad idea, fmpden, as ignorance of the law is NOOOOO excuse. I don't think the fines are as bad in Paris as in Venice, but it isn't something you want to find out, esp as a ticket from a carnet is pretty cheap.

I don't think fmpden was encouraging using the ticket over and over. He/she was simply saying Of course you have to validate it, because otherwise it could be used time and time again.

And yes, it should be fairly obvious, whether in Paris or anywhere else.

Thanks, StCirg. Some people in their eagerness to post something pointless, don't bother to read the other posts.

Aussie France,
Thank you for the suggestion and your pictures are lovely. you gave me some more ideas.

Is there such a thing as a bus map?

Here's a great interactive RATP map. Just click on "Bus" to see the bus routes.

http://www.ratp.fr/plan-interactif/carteidf.php?lang=uk

For itineraries from point to point, go to www.ratp.fr . On the home page you can put in departure/arrival points and get routing information. This function is in French only.