If you're not used to taking the bus, here's some tips so that you don't annoy everyone else around you.
1. Know which bus you need & where it boards: The buses are labeled by their bus number and which direction they're headed in lights on the front. The direction is indicated by a location stop (i.e. 80 via Journal Square). The best way to know what bus number and which direction you need is to check the NJT Itinerary Planner first. If you can't do that, ask other people waiting at the bus stop. If that doesn't help, and it often won't, quickly ask the driver before you pay if he or she makes your stop. Doing this is not preferable, but it is acceptable.
2. Have your money ready: When you see the bus coming, make sure that you have the exact amount of change necessary to ride it in your hand. If you don't know how much it will cost, it's helpful to have a lot of change. If this is impossible, be prepared to pay more than you should. Holding up the line to look for more money is a big no-no. The drivers do not have change.
3. Hail the bus: Sometimes the driver may not see you, or may think you're waiting for another bus. When you can see the bus number, step into the road and hold your arm up so that the driver knows that you want to get on. Don't be obnoxious about it. The bus will see you. Make sure you're standing by the right bus stop sign.
4. Let passengers off before you try to get on: If you try to get on before everyone else is off, the driver will put a big hand in your face. Just so you know, it's common courtesy everywhere to board after everyone has exited.
5. Pay your fare: Some buses have a machine to collect coins and bills. Other buses have the driver accept the money. Be prepared for both. Again, the drivers do not have change. Take the printed ticket if others are taking it. Leave it if others do not take it. If you are the first or the only person getting on, take the ticket. If there is no ticket, don't worry about it.
6. If you're unsure...: Sit near the driver if you have to ask a question or if you'd like the driver to point out your stop to you. Drivers are more willing to talk to passengers once the bus is moving. Sitting toward the front gives you the best view of street names. This is helpful in unfamiliar areas, but you should quickly give up the seat if a person who is old and/or disabled gets on.
7. Enjoy the ride: I crack up to hear the ways drivers yell at other vehicles on the road and berate their own passengers. Hopefully, if you followed these guidelines you won't be one of their targets. Even still, you might catch someone on a bad day. Don't let it get to you.
8. Inform the driver when to stop: Make sure to push the strip, pull the cord or press the button to let the driver know that your stop is coming up next. If you're unfamiliar with the area, be positive that it's where you want to get off. If you stop that bus, someone has to get off and it should probably be you. Thank the driver.
Above all else, try to have as much information as possible. Also, it helps to appear as if you know what you're doing and/or don't care too much about making a mistake.
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