Public rider information
The sunflower lanyard (hidden disabilities)
A green lanyard with sunflowers tells staff you have a disability they cannot see and may need more time or help. OC Transpo and STO do not run the programme, so drivers may not know it.
What it means
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a worldwide programme. Wearing the lanyard says: I have a disability you may not see, and I may need a little more time, patience or help. You do not have to say what your disability is.
Ottawa International Airport is a member and gives out lanyards.
On OC Transpo and STO
On October 3, 2026, neither OC Transpo nor STO listed the sunflower on its accessibility pages. You can still wear it, but a driver may not know what it means.
What both operators do recognize is their own card for a seat: the OC Transpo Priority Seating card and the STO Courtesy Privilege card. OC Transpo also gives free destination cards so the driver tells you when you reach your stop.
Asking for help without talking
You can show a card, point to a written note, or show your phone. You can reach both operators by text, email or a web form.
Checked on the OC Transpo and STO websites on October 3, 2026. Their rules can change; their pages are the final word.