How to apply for Free Transit Program for Senior Citizens in Pennsylvania

Who it's for

Anyone 65 or older rides free on local fixed-route buses anywhere in Pennsylvania, any time the local transit system is running. You need a senior citizen transit identification card, which your local transit operator gives you free — bring a driver's licence or other proof of age. The card does not expire and works on transit systems across the state, not just your own county. Pennsylvania also runs a shared-ride programme for door-to-door trips where riders 65+ pay only 15% of the fare and the Lottery Fund covers the other 85%.

What you'll need

• A driver's licence or other acceptable proof of age, shown to your local transit operator to get the free senior citizen transit ID card

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Free Transit Program for Senior Citizens. 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 a driver's licence or other acceptable proof of age, shown to your local transit operator to get the free senior citizen transit ID 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.

Step by step

1. Confirm you are 65 or older — that is the only age requirement for the free fixed-route transit benefit.
2. Gather your proof of age. A driver's licence works, or bring another acceptable document that shows your date of birth.
3. Contact your local transit operator to get your free senior citizen transit ID card. You can also reach PennDOT's Bureau of Public Transportation by phone at 717-783-8025 or apply online through the state's application channel.
4. Present your proof of age to the local transit operator so they can issue your senior citizen transit ID card at no cost to you.
5. Keep your senior citizen transit ID card with you every time you ride. You must show it when you board — without it, you pay the normal fare.
6. Check your local transit agency for schedules and available fixed routes in your county, since service hours and routes vary by location.

What to expect: Once your local transit operator verifies your proof of age, you receive your senior citizen transit ID card on the spot — there is no waiting period to start riding. The card does not expire, so no renewal is needed. It works on fixed-route local bus service across Pennsylvania, not just in your home county, any time that system is running. Remember, this free-ride benefit applies to local fixed-route service only. A separate shared-ride programme exists for door-to-door trips, where riders 65 and older pay 15% of the fare — ask your local transit operator for details on that programme if you need it.

Renewals

none — the senior transit ID card does not expire