How to apply for a Reduced-Fare MetroCard

Reduced fares are available for riders who are 65 or older or have a qualifying disability. Our step-by-step instructions walk you through the application process.

ID requirements

You will need an ID card to apply. We accept the following forms of photo ID:

• Valid driver's license (or legal equivalent) from any state
• Valid passport from any country
• IDNYC identification card
• Birth Certificate + Photo ID
• Medicare card + Photo ID
• Valid State Photo ID

Tips

• The application is free. You can apply online, by mail, or in person.
• If you don't have your card with you, you can still get a reduced fare when you pay with cash. Find out more.

Option 1: Apply online

1. Complete an online application.

2. Upload a passport-style photo.

It should be 2 inches by 1.5 inches.

3. Upload a copy of a valid ID as proof of age.

Forms of ID we accept are at the top of this page.

4. For riders with disabilities, upload proof of a qualifying disability.

A list is on page 2 of the application. An examiner will review this and might contact you for more information.

5. Submit your application and documents.

Option 2: Apply by mail

1. Download and complete an application.

• For people 65 and older
• For people with disabilities

2. Include a passport-style photo.

It should be 2 inches by 1.5 inches.

3. Include a copy of a valid ID as proof of age.

Forms of ID we accept are at the top of this page.

4. For riders with disabilities, include proof of a qualifying disability.

A list is on page 2 of the application. An examiner will review this and might contact you for more information.

5. Mail your application and documents to us.

MTA New York City Transit
Att: Reduced Fare Program
130 Livingston St
Brooklyn, NY 11201-9625

Need help or have questions?

Call us at 511. Say "MTA," then say "Subway and Buses" and follow the prompts.

You can also use your preferred relay service provider or the free 711 relay if you need.

Option 3: Apply in person

Visit a Customer Service Center in a subway station.

You can visit one of our Customer Service Centers in selected subway stations across the city. If you're 65 or over, you can sign up in person and receive your new Reduced-Fare MetroCard the same day. If you have a disability, you can receive in-person, individualized assistance from a station agent and get a temporary Reduced-Fare MetroCard to use while your application is processed.

Visit our Customer Service Center in Lower Manhattan.

Our Customer Service Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, except holidays. For customers who are non-English speaking or have limited English proficiency, interpreter services are available free of charge.

The Customer Service Center is located at:

3 Stone St
New York, NY 10004

Apply in person at a MetroCard bus or van.

What you need to bring

Bring two valid IDs. One must be a photo ID.

We have forms, assistance, and free photography available.