How to apply for Red Rose Transit (RRTA, South Central Transit Authority — SCTA) + RRTA Shared Ride (Lancaster County) in Pennsylvania

Lancaster County / regional transit operator — Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA), part of South Central Transit Authority (SCTA — 2018 merger of RRTA Lancaster + BARTA Berks), operates fixed-route bus across Lancaster city and county. PA Senior Free Transit Program FREE for age 65+ on fixed-route. Shared Ride for medical and essential trips. Distinctive note: Lancaster County has substantial Amish + Mennonite community who use buggies + community transit alternatives.

Who it's for

Red Rose Transit (RRTA, South Central Transit Authority — SCTA) + RRTA Shared Ride covers Lancaster County. Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA), part of South Central Transit Authority (SCTA — 2018 merger of RRTA Lancaster + BARTA Berks), operates fixed-route bus across Lancaster city and county. PA Senior Free Transit Program FREE for age 65+ on fixed-route. Shared Ride for medical and essential trips. Distinctive note: Lancaster County has substantial Amish + Mennonite community who use buggies + community transit alternatives. RRTA's Senior Shared Ride Program (Red Rose Access) is open to anyone 65 or older for any trip purpose, with a co-pay that averages about 15 percent of the trip cost; ride reservations are made at 717-291-1243 or toll-free 1-800-892-1122. Since July 1, 2018 a Medicare card is no longer accepted on the bus: riders need a PA Senior Citizen Transit ID card, obtained with a short application and proof of age online at Find My Ride Apply or by calling 717-291-1243 for a mailed form. The Lancaster County Office of Aging (717-299-7979) can also help.

Lancaster: PA Senior Free Transit. rabbittransit's 11-county footprint covers most of South Central PA; Lancaster uses Red Rose Transit (SCTA).

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 Lancaster 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: 717-291-1243

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Red Rose Transit (RRTA, South Central Transit Authority — SCTA) + RRTA Shared Ride (Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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 · October 4, 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.