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The MCTS Reduced Fare Program offers riders aged 65 and over, aged 6 to 11, or riders with a qualifying disability the opportunity to ride MCTS at a reduced rate.

Reduced Fare


You can use cash or an M•CARD to pay the reduced fare of $1.10 a ride, but the easiest way is with an MCTS Reduced Fare Card. This card works just like a regular M•CARD but is programmed for the reduced fare; this card also allows you to take advantage of our 1,7 or 31-Day Reduced Fare pricing. Reduced Fare Cards can only be obtained through MCTS. Please see the "How to Apply" section below for more information.


Don't have the MCTS Reduced Fare Card? No problem. You can still use cash or an M•CARD. When you board you must show an ID to the bus driver to prove you are eligible. Accepted forms of ID include:

  • Medicare card

  • MCTS Reduced Fare ID card

Categories for Eligibility

Still unsure? There are three categories used to determine whether or not you're eligible for this program:

  1. If you are 65 years or older OR between the ages of 6 & 11 OR

  2. If you are currently covered under Medicare (Medicaid not applicable)

  3. If you have a qualifying physical or mental impairment (see application for details. En español.)

How to Apply

How you apply to see if you can receive Reduced Fare:

  • Click here to download the application (En español)

  • Complete and sign the front of the application

  • Have your treating physician or licensed health care provider (WI Medical Lic.) complete and sign the back of the application

  • Mail your completed application and copy of your photo ID, along with a recent photo, to our office, 1942 N. 17th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53205. Your card will be mailed to you once your application has been processed.
  • Our office is open to the public Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. if you prefer to submit your application in person.
FAQ

What is the advantage of the Reduced Fare Card?

Not only does this card allow you to take advantage of reduced fare pricing, it also means you no longer need to carry a separate ID. Since the Reduced Fare Card has your picture on it, it's the only card you need.

I'm eligible for the Reduced Fare Program but don't have an MCTS Reduced Fare Card, how can I take advantage of the program?

You can use cash or a regular M•CARD to pay reduced fare on the bus by following these simple steps.

  1. Tell the driver when you board you are eligible for reduced fare and verify that by showing the driver your Medicare card or State ID
  2. Wait for the driver to enter the reduced fare information in the farebox system
  3. Once driver tells you to pay, either insert cash or touch the M•CARD to the farebox and pay using Stored Cash Value

If I'm paying with cash, can I get a transfer?

No, the only way to get a transfer is by using the Reduced Fare Card or an M•CARD.

I plan to ride a lot, what's the best option for me?

The MCTS Reduced Fare Card allows you to take advantage of the 1, 7 and 31-Day Pass reduced fare pricing. If you pay cash or use the M•CARD you will only be able to pay for one ride at a time.

I have a red M•CARD, is that still good for reduced fare?

Yes, the red M•CARD is still programmed for reduced fare and will work like the MCTS Reduced Fare Card, but as of July 2017 we are no longer selling the red card.

I have a red M•CARD but would like to get the MCTS Reduced Fare Card, is that possible?

Yes, please call our office at 414-937-3218 (Customer Service) to find out how you can obtain a new card.

How can I replace my card that is about to expire?

See the section above called "How to Apply".

How much does it cost to replace my card?

Until further notice, all replacement fees are being waived.

Questions?

If you have questions about Reduced Fare, please call Customer Service at 414-937-3218 or 711 (TRS), Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.