May 21, 2025
Rules of the Rail: Metro Etiquette Tips & Tricks
With Metro ridership reaching its highest numbers since 2020, it’s more important now than ever to respect your fellow passengers and understand the rules of the rail. Following proper Metro etiquette not only helps you travel more efficiently, but also keeps our Metro clean and operating smoothly.
Read on for a list of ways you can be a better Metro passenger!
Stand Back
 | While waiting for a train to arrive, stand at least two feet behind the edge of the platform. A good guideline is to make sure you’re behind the platform’s dark brown line (pictured to the left). Flashing lights along the platform edge will announce that a train is arriving. |
Walk on the Left
 | When on the escalator, if you choose to walk, walk on the left-hand side. If you choose to stand still, stand on the right-hand side of the escalator. This applies whether you’re going up or down the escalator. |
Board Politely
 | Once the train arrives, allow passengers to exit before boarding. Stand to the right or left of the doors on the platform to make room for people exiting; do not stand directly in front of the doors. Don’t push people in front of you to board the train first, even if it’s crowded. |
Move to the Center of the Car
 | If you don’t get a seat, stand as far into the middle of the car as you can. This allows more passengers to board and prevents uncomfortable bunching near the doors. |
Avoid Food and Beverages
 | Do not eat or drink when riding on the train or waiting on the platform. |
Wear Your Headphones
 | Do not play music, videos, or other forms of audio without headphones or earbuds while riding the train or waiting on the platform. |
Manage Your Belongings
 | When sitting on a crowded train, do not use an extra seat to store your belongings. Please hold your bag or other carry-ons on your lap or under your seat. Make sure your belongings don’t block the aisle, either. When standing on the train, remove your backpack and hold it or place it on the floor between your feet to make room for other passengers. |
Be Aware of Priority Seating
 | Priority seating is located near the doors and will be indicated by a sign. You may sit there if it is unoccupied, but be prepared to give up your seat to passengers with disabilities, pregnant passengers, and elderly passengers. |
We hope this list of tips and tricks will help you get back to the rails with ease! For a full list of Metrorail rules and manners, check out WMATA’s Rider Guide.
