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Transportation Access Pass

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Learn more about reduced fare programs available for children, students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

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People with disabilities can receive reduced fares on the MBTA with a Transportation Access Pass (TAP). TAP cards are valid for 5 years for doctor-designated permanent disabilities. TAP cards valid for 1 year may be issued for riders with disabilities a doctor has deemed temporary.

How to Apply for a Transportation Access Pass (TAP)

  1. Fill out a TAP card application:
    Transportation Access Pass Application (DOC)
    Transportation Access Pass Application (PDF)
  2. Mail it to the CharlieCard Store in Downtown Crossing: 
    CharlieCard Store
    7 Chauncy Street
    Boston, MA 02111
  3. You’ll get a decision letter 6 – 8 weeks after the CharlieCard Store receives your application.
  4. If you’re approved, you can visit the CharlieCard Store any time to pick up a temporary 30-day TAP ticket. Just show a valid, government-issued ID.
  5. You’ll get your permanent TAP CharlieCard in the mail 7 – 10 business days after you pick up your temporary card.

How to Use Your TAP Card

Subway and Bus

You can load stored value or monthly passes onto your TAP card at any fare vending machine or at fare boxes on buses and above-ground trolleys. 

Please note: Discounted monthly passes are not available for Express Buses. You can purchase a single ride for 50% of the standard cash fare.

Commuter Rail and Ferry

On the Commuter Rail* or ferry, show your TAP card to MBTA staff at a ticket booth. You’ll pay 50% of the standard fare. 

*You can also receive reduced fares on the Commuter Rail with a TAP card from a Massachusetts or Rhode Island regional transit authority (RTA). 

Please note: Discounted monthly passes are not available for the ferry or Commuter Rail. You can purchase 10-ride tickets for 50% of the standard fare.