How do you ride a bus?

Welcome to the States. I'm not sure how the bus system works in other places, but in my state you pay as soon as you get on. There should be a coin machine next to the driver that you put your money into. You can ask the driver or the other passengers how much. If you are going to be using the bus often, you might want to ask if there is a bus pass or something like that you can purchase. That way you only have to show that to the bus driver when you get on. I know the bus drivers here are friendly and helpful and will answer any of your questions. Good luck.