How-to: Ventra for Seniors

Seniors are offered special fares on transit throughout the region, when riding with special cards issued by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA).

You'll need your RTA card to get your senior fare when you ride.
 

Senior Reduced Fare

If you are 65 years or older and not enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging's Benefit Access program, you are eligible for a reduced fare permit.

Seniors can load these cards with either transit value (from which fare is deducted as you ride) or by loading the CTA/Pace 30-Day Reduced Fare Pass. Either can be configured with autoload.

You can also use this card with Metra reduced fare tickets (either paper ones you buy in person or reduced fare tickets purchased in the Ventra app)—be prepared to show this card to conductors to prove your eligibility to use a reduced fare ticket when you ride Metra.

Visit the RTA’s website for information on the Senior Reduced Fare Program and how to get the permit.
 

RTA Senior Ride Free Program

Seniors, aged 65 or older: If you are an Illinois resident, and currently enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging’s Benefit Access Program, you are eligible for free transit on fixed routes operated by the CTA, Metra and Pace. To ride free on CTA and Pace fixed-route services, touch your RTA-issued Senior Ride Free Card to the Ventra Reader.

Visit the RTA’s website for information on the Senior Ride Free Program and how to get the permit.