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

Who it's for

CDTA covers Schenectady 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 office (110 Watervliet Avenue, Albany) or via cdta.org. Phone: 518-482-8822.

What you'll need

• Proof of Schenectady 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 (Schenectady 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 Schenectady 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 Schenectady County, as this program covers Schenectady County residents.
2. Gather your proof of Schenectady County residency, such as a utility bill or official mail showing your address.
3. If applying for the Senior Half-Fare ID, also gather a photo ID that shows you are age 65 or older.
4. If applying for STAR ADA paratransit, obtain your ADA-eligibility certification from your doctor or qualifying provider.
5. Apply online through the CDTA website, by phone at 518-482-8822, or in person at the CDTA office at 110 Watervliet Avenue in Albany.
6. Submit all required documents along with your application through your chosen method.
7. Ask CDTA staff about current processing times and next steps when you apply.

What to expect: After submitting your application, CDTA will review your documents and determine your eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask CDTA staff for an estimate when you apply. If approved for the Senior Half-Fare ID, you will receive a card that cuts your bus fare in half on CDTA fixed-route service. The Half-Fare ID does not require regular renewal, but if you are approved for STAR ADA paratransit, keep in mind that paratransit eligibility must be re-certified periodically — CDTA will let you know when recertification is needed.

Renewals

ongoing; paratransit re-cert periodically