How do I validate a GBFS feed?

Use the JSON schemas from the MobilityData/gbfs-json-schema repository or community tools listed on gbfs.org. These help ensure your feed complies with the specification's requirements.

What's the difference between GBFS and MDS?

GBFS is for public, real-time data aimed at end-users, while MDS is for regulatory data shared only with mobility regulators. GBFS feeds are required for MDS compliance, as noted in the README.

Which cities or systems use GBFS?

Hundreds of systems worldwide publish GBFS; a community-maintained catalog (systems.csv) in the repository lists them by country and system name, with details like auto-discovery URLs.

How to upgrade from GBFS v2.x to v3.0?

Check the release notes and upgrade article from MobilityData, which outline breaking changes and migration steps. The README links to a v3.0 article for guidance.

Does GBFS support authentication for private feeds?

Yes, GBFS allows authentication types like API keys or HTTP headers, but it's conditionally required and specified in the systems catalog with details on parameter names.

GBFS — Shared Mobility Data Standard

What is GBFS?

GBFS (General Bikeshare Feed Specification) is an open data standard that defines a uniform format for real-time data feeds from shared mobility systems, such as bikeshare and scooter networks. It solves the problem of fragmented and inconsistent data availability by providing a standardized way for mobility operators to publish system status—like vehicle and dock availability—publicly online. This enables developers to build applications that offer real-time transit advice and improve user access to shared mobility services.

Target Audience

Shared mobility system operators, public transit agencies, application developers building mobility or transit apps, and civic technology practitioners who need to consume or provide standardized real-time mobility data.

Value Proposition

Developers choose GBFS because it is the industry-standard, community-driven specification that ensures interoperability across hundreds of global shared mobility systems. Its focus on real-time, public data with clear versioning and backward compatibility reduces integration complexity and fosters a robust ecosystem of tools and applications.

Overview

Documentation for the General Bikeshare Feed Specification, a standardized data feed for shared mobility system availability. Maintained by MobilityData

GBFS

What is GBFS?

Overview

Use Cases

Best For

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Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Frequently Asked Questions