On the RTA system, two types of riders are allowed to pay reduced fares:

• Senior citizens (65 years and older)
• Certain disabled riders

RTA fare prices are listed here.

To pay the reduced fare, however, you first need to show the bus driver or streetcar conductor proof that you qualify.

Senior Citizens

Senior citizens 65 years old and older qualify for reduced fares. All you need to do is show the bus driver or streetcar conductor a state-issued picture ID or drivers license that proves your age.

Some of our riders prefer to use an RTA Senior Citizen ID instead of a state ID or drivers license. If you would like to get your own RTA Senior Citizen ID, visit the RTA ID Center with a picture ID that shows proof of your age.

Disabled Riders

Disabled riders need to apply for and receive an RTA Reduced Fare Card before they are allowed to pay reduced fares on the RTA system. There are two ways to get an RTA Reduced Fare Card:

• With Medicare qualifications
• With an RTA Reduced Fare Card application

Medicare Qualifications

If you receive Medicare, you can automatically get an RTA Reduced Fare Card. Come into the RTA ID Center [link to this heading at bottom of the page] with three things:

1. Your Medicare card
2. A Social Security award letter that verifies Medicare benefits
3. A state ID or drivers license

RTA Reduced Fare Card Application

If you do not receive Medicare but you have a disability, you can apply for an RTA Reduced Fare Card.

• RTA Reduced Fare Application Form

You can also pick up an application form at the RTA ID Center, or write us a letter at the RTA ID Center and we will mail one to you.

Part of the application form has an area for your doctor to fill out in order to verify your disability.

You do not need to use this form if:

• You are a senior citizen (65 years and older)
• You receive Medicare
• You have an RTA Paratransit Card

Please be aware that not everyone who has a medical disability qualifies for reduced fares. The purpose of the RTA Reduced Fare Card is to help people whose disability makes it difficult for them to get around. If your disability does not affect your mobility, the RTA will most likely turn down your request for an RTA Reduced Fare Card.

Paratransit Riders

If you have RTA Paratransit Card, you can ride standard buses and streetcars for free. An RTA Paratransit Card is different from an RTA Reduced Fare Card. For more information on RTA’s paratransit services and to apply for an RTA Paratransit Card, visit the Eligibility for Paratransit page.

RTA ID Center

In certain cases, you will need to show an RTA-issued ID to prove to the bus driver or streetcar conductor that qualify for a reduced fare. We make picture IDs at our in-house ID Center. You may visit us at the address below, and feel free to call or write if you have questions.

RTA ID Center
2817 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
(504) 827-8345
TDD: (504) 827-7833
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

If you ask, the RTA ID Center can supply applications and information in alternative formats, such as Braille or audiotape.

The cost for your first RTA-issued ID is free. If you lose it and need a replacement, it will cost $2.00. If you need any another replacements after the first replacement, the charge is $5.00.

In order to prevent fraud, all ID cards will expire after three years. You can apply for a new ID card for free.