Tri-Rail and SunRail are required to report passenger trips in the National Transit Database (NTD). The annual number of passenger trips on these commuter rail lines is included in the Source Book transit passenger trips and rail passenger measures.

• Fixed-Route Transit: A system for transporting multiple people that uses one or more vehicles operating on a prescribed route according to a fixed schedule. This term does not describe fixed-route air travel, ferries, or water taxis.
• Transit: A travel mode in which vehicles (including buses, streetcars, street-running light rail, and commuter rail) pick up and drop off passengers at regular stops/stations.
• Transit Passenger Trips: The total number of passenger trips on transit vehicles. A trip is counted each time a passenger boards a transit vehicle. Thus, each time a passenger transfers between buses to reach a destination, it is counted as a passenger trip.
• Reporting Periods
  • Federal Fiscal Year: from October 1 to September 30
  • State Fiscal Year: from July 1 to June 30