How to apply for BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority, part of South Central Transit Authority SCTA) (Berks County) in Pennsylvania

Berks County / regional transit operator — BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority) operates fixed-route bus across Reading metro + Berks County. Part of South Central Transit Authority (SCTA) since 2018 merger with Red Rose Transit Authority (Lancaster) — SCTA now spans Berks + Lancaster. PA Senior Free Transit Program FREE for age 65+ on fixed-route. Shared Ride for medical and essential trips.

Who it's for

BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority, part of South Central Transit Authority SCTA) covers Berks County. BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority) operates fixed-route bus across Reading metro + Berks County. Part of South Central Transit Authority (SCTA) since 2018 merger with Red Rose Transit Authority (Lancaster) — SCTA now spans Berks + Lancaster. PA Senior Free Transit Program FREE for age 65+ on fixed-route. Shared Ride for medical and essential trips. PA Senior Shared Ride program — seniors 65+ pay 15% of the fare and the Pennsylvania Lottery Fund pays the other 85%, in every county of the state. Apply for senior fare through the local transit authority or Berks AAA at 610-478-6500.

Berks: PA Senior Free Transit + Senior Shared Ride. BARTA part of SCTA (Berks+Lancaster); STS Schuylkill-only.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Proof of Berks County / PA residency
  • Proof of age 65+ (PA Senior Citizen Transit ID OR PennDOT ID)
  • For paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 610-921-0601

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about BARTA (Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority, part of South Central Transit Authority SCTA) (Berks 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 Berks County / PA residency, proof of age 65+ (PA Senior Citizen Transit ID OR PennDOT 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.

Renewals

Senior ID is permanent

Official source →Last verified · September 27, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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