ADA paratransit certified riders can now ride free on fixed-route CTA, Metra, and Pace service

Effective October 1, 2025, fixed-route CTA, Pace, and Metra will be free for ADA paratransit certified riders. This applies to CTA and Pace buses, the CTA ‘L,’ and Metra trains. ADA paratransit and other transportation services offered by Pace will continue at their established fares.

Riders do not need to take any action to take advantage of this benefit. ADA paratransit permits will automatically change from a Reduced Fare permit on buses and trains to a Ride Free permit.

To use ADA paratransit permits on to ride free buses and trains:

On CTA buses and ‘L’ trains, tap ADA paratransit permit cards on the card reader.
On Pace buses, riders will now need to tap ADA paratransit permit cards on the bus’s card reader to receive a free fare.
On Metra trains, riders do not need to purchase a Metra ticket. Simply present ADA paratransit permit cards to the conductor when requested.
If traveling with a Personal Care Assistant (PCA): The PCA will continue to pay a reduced fare when traveling with an ADA paratransit permit holder. Show the bus operator, Metra Conductor, or ‘L’ station attendant your ADA paratransit permit and inform them that your PCA will ride at a reduced fare with you. On CTA and Pace, tap your permit once for a free ride, and the second tap will provide a reduced fare for your PCA. The reduced fare will be deducted from the Ventra account associated with your permit. On Metra, you will ride for free, but you will need to purchase a reduced fare ticket for your PCA.
There are no changes to how to use a permit for ADA paratransit service, and riders will continue to have a Ventra account to pay for ADA paratransit trips if using this option.

For questions, please call RTA Customer Service at 312-913-3110. For Ventra account questions, please call Ventra at 877-669-8368.