Yes, SMART tag student ID cards are required for all students receiving transportation services. Additionally, in order to minimize the manual review of students who misplace or forget their ID cards at home or school, students who possess their ID badges are first to board the bus.

The bus driver will be able to view the student’s picture, name, ID number, school, grade, and bus stop.

Bus drivers are required to allow students off at their designated stops only. If the student does not want to get off at their designated stop, the bus driver will keep them on the bus and safely return them to their campus for a parent or guardian to pick them up.

Replacement cards can be requested by completing this form. There is a $2 fee to replace a SMART tag badge. Please allow for a 5 day grace period ensuring enough time for the fee to be dropped off at your child's campus and the card to be printed. 

Students waiting for their replacement badge will be entered manually in the SMART tag system by the bus driver.

Every Academy ISD student (PreK-12 Grade) is registered for a bus route - whether they ride the bus or not. We recommend car riders and walkers to also keep their SMART tag ID with them at all times in the event they will need to ride a bus.

For assistance with this matter, please contact the Transportation Department at transportation@academyisd.net.