Metro Bus Fare Deal Program

Metro’s Fare Deal program allows eligible riders to obtain a Fare Deal identification card valid for half-price fares on any Metro trip. Eligible Participants include adults 65 and older, Medicare card holders, Riders with disabilities, and Access Program participants.

Those 65 years-old and older are automatically eligible; proof of age is required. Medicare card holders of any age are also automatically eligible. Riders with disabilities who don’t have Medicare and are not 65 or order must submit an application and be certified to qualify for the program. This certification requires an original Physician Statement of Medical Disability eligibility form, and a letter or statement from your physician certifying your disability. Photocopies or faxed copies are not accepted.

How to Apply:

The Fare Deal Application Form may be downloaded from the Metro website. You may complete the application in advance this way, or pick it up in person at the Fare Deal office. Either way, completed applications must be turned in at the Fare Deal office. The office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:15 a.m. through noon, and 1 p.m. through 4 p.m. The office is located at 7000 Montgomery Road. Applicants should have all supporting documentation with them when they submit their application.

Once approved, you will receive a “tap and show” smart card to ride Metro for half fare. The card works by tapping it on the target image on the fare box when boarding, showing it to the operator, and paying the amount shown on the fare box. You may additionally purchase a $40 monthly sticker for your card, that allows unlimited rides and cover zone and transfer charges. PLEASE NOTE: Stickers are valid for the calendar month only – not 30 days from when you purchase your sticker.

Stickers can be purchased between the 15th of the preceding month through the 10th of the valid month by sending a check or money order made payable to SORTA to 1801 Transpark Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229. You can alternatively call 513-632-7591 to pay for it, or pay in person, either at the Fare Deal Office in Silverton (open Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8:15 a.m. though noon and 1 p.m through 4 p.m.) or the Metro’s downtown sales office (open weekdays 7 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. Closed major holidays.)

You can find more resources related to transportation and financial assistance by selecting the “transportation” and/or “financial resources” category tab on our “Social Service Utilization Library” page.