How to apply for CapMetro Senior Half-Fare (Reduced Fare ID) + CapMetro Access ADA Paratransit in Texas
Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) — regional transit authority serving Austin and most of Travis County; operates MetroBus, MetroRapid, MetroRail (Red Line), MetroExpress commuter bus, and CapMetro Access ADA paratransit
Who it's for
Capital Metro (CapMetro) is the regional transit authority serving Austin and most of Travis County, operating MetroBus, MetroRapid, MetroRail (the Red Line to Leander), MetroExpress commuter buses, and CapMetro Access paratransit. Riders 65 and older pay half fare with a CapMetro Reduced Fare ID (RFID) card. The card costs $3 and is good for 2 years. Medicare card holders of any age, active and reserve military, and riders with disabilities can get the same card. Seniors can apply online, pick up an application at the Transit Store (1705 Guadalupe St.) with a valid government-issued ID, Texas photo ID, or Texas driver's license, or call 512-389-7475 to get an application by mail. Starting January 10, 2027, the Reduced Fare program also covers veterans and households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. CapMetro Access is shared-ride paratransit within 3/4 of a mile of CapMetro's regular fixed routes. Age alone does not qualify a rider for Access; riders must be certified through CapMetro's in-person eligibility process. Access Eligibility: 512-389-7501. All Access services: 512-852-7272.
CapMetro's senior half-fare benefit is automatic for any senior age 65+ who presents the required proof of age and obtains the Reduced Fare ID Card. status_ceiling=likely_qualifies because no income test or discretionary review applies. CapMetro's age 65+ threshold is standard for Texas (matches METRO Houston, DART Dallas; slightly older than Bexar VIA's age 62+ threshold). The Reduced Fare ID Card's 2-YEAR validity is operationally convenient — peer transit systems often require annual renewal. CapMetro Access is a SEPARATE ADA-based eligibility process — being 65+ does NOT automatically grant Access eligibility; functional inability to use fixed-route service within 3/4 mile is the standard. Access service area is geographically constrained — Travis County residents who live more than 3/4 mile from any CapMetro fixed route do NOT qualify for Access paratransit (even with documented disability).
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- For the Reduced Fare ID card (seniors 65+): a valid government-issued ID, Texas photo ID, or Texas driver's license
- Reduced Fare ID card fee: $3 (renew every 2 years)
- For CapMetro Access: application Part A plus Part B completed by a qualified healthcare professional, then the in-person eligibility process
- For Access rides: book by calling 512-852-7272 or through the Access App
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 512-389-7475
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about CapMetro Senior Half-Fare (Reduced Fare ID) + CapMetro Access ADA Paratransit. 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 for the Reduced Fare ID card (seniors 65+): a valid government-issued ID, Texas photo ID, or Texas driver's license, reduced Fare ID card fee: $3 (renew every 2 years), for CapMetro Access: application Part A plus Part B completed by a qualified healthcare professional, then the in-person eligibility process — 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
Reduced Fare ID valid for 2 years; Access eligibility periodically recertified
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.