Welcome to Navigator!

The CDTA Navigator card is now included as part of your OGS parking permit.

Any member of the OGS Parking System can now board almost any CDTA bus, anywhere, anytime - all at no additional cost. Don’t miss the bus! Get a free Navigator Card today.

OGS has partnered with the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) to provide a faster, smarter, and greener way for state employees to travel around the Capital Region. The Navigator card unlocks your access to CDTA’s entire transit network and the accompanying benefits.

Where can I pick up my Navigator card?

Your Navigator card can be picked up at the “Permit Pickup Location” indicated on the Status Report at the link below:

Pick Up Locations

Who is eligible for the Navigator card and the transit benefit that it provides?

All OGS permit holders, regardless of location, are eligible for CDTA Navigator Cards at no additional cost. The Navigator card is the property of New York State Office of General Services and can only be used by the employee it was issued to.

What if I’m not an OGS permit holder?

NYS employees who are not OGS parking permit holders can now apply for a “Commuter Only Lot”, permit by creating an Employee Parking Profile at the link below and choosing “Commuter Only Lot” in their parking preference. The cost of a Commuter Permit is $8 permit per pay period by payroll deduction.

A Commuter Only Lot permit includes NO parking privileges in any OGS parking facility. Only access to the CDTA bus routes which are offered to state employees through the purchase of the Navigator Card.

Where can I use my Navigator card?

The Navigator card gives eligible state employees unlimited access to CDTA’s entire route network. You can board any CDTA bus, anywhere, at any time. This includes all regular bus service as well as BusPlus (Route 905).

Find more information about CDTA schedules or to plan your next trip using one of the following options:

• Download the CDTA Navigator App available for iOS and Android mobile devices
• Download the Transit App available for iOS and Android mobile devices
• Visit CDTA’s website at www.cdta.org or call CDTA’s customer service center at (518) 482-8822
• Use Google Maps on your mobile device or desktop computer.

The current CDTA services NOT INCLUDED in this program are STAR (Paratransit) and Flex (On Demand). These services will require an alternative form of payment if you decide to ride.

How to tap the Navigator card on the bus?

Simply place your Navigator card on top of the farebox CENTERED, FLAT and TOUCHING the smart card reader. The reader will turn green if the card is accepted, or red if the card is not recognized.

How should I take care of my card?

Navigator card is a durable smart card that should last for years if cared for properly. Make sure not to punch holes or bend the card. You can keep your Navigator card in your wallet or ID holder however, other cards may interfere with its acceptance on the bus. For best results, take the Navigator card out and tap it to the farebox directly.

Can I simply show my state ID to board the bus?

State IDs will NOT be accepted for boarding CDTA buses. Make sure to tap your Navigator card to receive your ride.

Can I use the Navigator mobile app instead of the Navigator card?

At this time, the plastic Navigator smart card is the only available option for this specific program. Other options might be available in the future.

I already have a personal Navigator card. Can I combine two cards into one?

At this time, you will need to continue maintaining any personal Navigator card balance on a separate card.

What if my Navigator card is lost?

Permit holders who lose their Navigator Card can request a new card by contacting the OGS parking by email at [email protected] or by phone at (518) 474-8118.

Is there any charge for the Navigator card (new or replacement)?

There is currently no fee assessed to the permit holder for losing a Navigator Card. When replacement cards are issued, cards reported lost will be deactivated and flagged by the bus company.

What if my Navigator card is not working?

Permit holders whose Navigator Card ceases to be operational can request a new card by contacting the OGS parking by email at [email protected] or by phone at (518) 474-8118. There is NO charge for a non-working Navigator Card if the non-working card is returned to OGS Parking.

What if I retire or leave my job with New York State?

Upon leaving your job with New York State, please, return your Navigator card to the same office where you received it. This will allow us to re-use cards and reduce waste. If we do not receive your card, it will be automatically deactivated.