How to apply for Senior & Disabled Transit (MBTA) — Suffolk in Massachusetts

Who it's for

The MBTA subway, buses, commuter rail, and ferries serve Boston and the rest of Suffolk County. Riders 65 and older can get a Senior CharlieCard for roughly half-price one-way fares plus $10 7-day and $30 monthly LinkPasses; apply online or bring a government-issued photo ID to the Charlie Service Center. People with disabilities and Medicare cardholders get the same reduced fares with a Transportation Access Pass (TAP) CharlieCard. The RIDE (https://www.mbta.com/accessibility/the-ride) gives door-to-door shared rides in Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop for people whose disability keeps them from using the bus or subway; book online, in the app, or by calling TRAC at 844-427-7433. For help applying for a reduced-fare card, call MBTA customer support at 617-222-3200.

What you'll need

• Senior CharlieCard: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
• TAP card: proof of disability, such as a Health Care Professional Certification form, an RMV disability placard, or a Medicare card

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Senior & Disabled Transit (MBTA) — Suffolk. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need senior CharlieCard: a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), tAP card: proof of disability, such as a Health Care Professional Certification form, an RMV disability placard, or a Medicare card — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

per trip / fare card renewal