Ride Free Permits

Regional Transportation Authority

Free public transportation services for adults 65 and older and people with disabilities.

Services Offered

Free Transportation • Public Transportation • Disability Services • Seniors • Bus Passes

Description

The RTA issues Ride Free Permits for Illinois residents enrolled in the Illinois Department of Aging Benefit Access Program. Ride Free permits can be used for Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra, and Pace fixed-route services. For more information, see the Ride Free program brochure in English or Spanish.

Location

Service Options

Languages Spoken

English
Spanish

Eligibility

For seniors 65 and older and individuals with a disability.
Must be an Illinois resident currently enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program.
The income limits to qualify for the Ride Free Transit benefit are $27,610 for a household of one, $36,635 for a household of two, and $45,657 for a household of three or more.
See Eligibility Requirements for more information.

Payment

This service is free

Population

Adults accepted
Seniors accepted

How to Apply

If you are 65 or older and enrolled in the Illinois Benefits Access Program, click here to download a Ride Free application, or apply in person at your nearest registration site. You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID that verifies your age and Illinois residency, along with a color photo of yourself approximately 2" square. You should receive your Ride Free permit in 3-4 weeks.

If you have a disability and are enrolled in the Illinois Benefits Access Program, click here to download a Ride Free application, or apply in person at your nearest registration site. You must provide a vaild government-issued photo ID that verifies your age and Illinois residency, along with a color photo of yourself approximately 2" square. You should receive your Ride Free permit in 3-4 weeks.

If you are not currently enrolled in the Illinois Benefits Access program, click here to apply. To get help in filling out this application at a location near you, you may contact the Senior HelpLine at: 1-800-252-8966 (toll free) or 1-888-206-1327 (TTY) or go here.