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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.

Reduced-Fare OMNY cards are coming soon

As we transition from MetroCard to OMNY, customers enrolled in the Reduced-Fare MetroCard program will soon receive OMNY cards in the mail. During the transition, the Reduced-Fare application process will undergo changes. Check back here for updates.

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.

Click here.

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

As the MTA transitions Reduced-Fare customers from MetroCards to OMNY, new customers who apply by mail may experience longer processing times of up to three months before receiving a Reduced-Fare OMNY Card.

1. Download and complete an application.

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.

Learn more and see the locations of Customer Service Centers in subway stations.

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

Learn more about our Customer Service Center.

Apply in person at a MetroCard bus or van.

Learn more and see scheduled locations.

What you need to bring

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

We have forms, assistance, and free photography available.

More information

Overview of Reduced-Fare MetroCards