Benefits · Transportation

How to apply for RTA Ride Free + Reduced Fare — CTA / Pace / Metra (Cook County)

Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) — Chicago region transit (CTA, Pace, Metra)

Who it's for

Cook County is the core of the RTA service region (CTA buses + 'L' trains, Pace suburban buses, Metra commuter rail). Seniors age 65+ ride at REDUCED fare with an RTA Reduced Fare permit, and ride FREE under the Ride Free Transit Benefit if they qualify for the Illinois Benefit Access Program (income under $33,562 single / $44,533 couple). RTA also runs ADA paratransit (Pace ADA Paratransit) for those who cannot use fixed-route. Apply for the permit through RTA after Benefit Access approval.

Cook = CTA/Pace/Metra. Seniors 65+ get RTA reduced fare; FREE rides require Benefit Access income approval ($33,562 single). Pace ADA Paratransit covers those who can't use fixed-route.

What you'll need

Proof of age 65+ (or disability)
Proof of Cook County / Illinois residency
Illinois Benefit Access approval (for the free Ride Free permit)
Photo identification

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 312-913-3110

Renewals

permit multi-year

Official source →Last verified · June 14, 2026

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.