How to apply for CDTA — Capital District Transportation Authority + STAR Paratransit (Albany County) in New York

Who it's for

CDTA covers Albany County with fixed-route bus service (Capital District) and STAR ADA paratransit. Senior Half-Fare ID for riders age 65+ cuts fares in half. Apply at the CDTA Sales Center (85 Watervliet Avenue, Albany NY 12206, Mon-Fri 9-5). Phone: 518-437-6876 (Half Fare ID); customer information 518-482-8822.

What you'll need

• Proof of Albany County residency
• For half fare: proof of age 65+ (photo ID)
• For paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about CDTA — Capital District Transportation Authority + STAR Paratransit (Albany County). 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 proof of Albany County residency, for half fare: proof of age 65+ (photo ID), for paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification — 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.

Step by step

1. Confirm you live in Albany County, as this program serves Albany County residents.
2. Gather your proof of Albany County residency. If applying for the Half-Fare ID, also bring a photo ID showing you are age 65 or older. If applying for STAR ADA paratransit, obtain your ADA-eligibility certification.
3. Apply online or by phone. Call 518-437-6876 to apply for the Half-Fare ID by phone. For general customer information, call 518-482-8822.
4. If you prefer to apply in person, visit the CDTA Sales Center at 85 Watervliet Avenue, Albany, NY 12206. The center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5. Submit all required documents when you apply, whether online, by phone, or in person.

What to expect: After submitting your application, CDTA will review your documents and eligibility. Processing times vary, so contact CDTA at 518-437-6876 for an estimate. Once approved for the Half-Fare ID, you will pay half the regular fare on CDTA fixed-route bus service. The Half-Fare ID does not expire, but STAR ADA paratransit riders should be aware that paratransit eligibility requires periodic re-certification — watch for notices from CDTA and respond promptly to keep your paratransit service active.

Renewals

ongoing; paratransit re-cert periodically