The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced that it is now accepting IDNYC as valid identification to apply for Reduced-Fare MetroCards, or OMNY cards, and for Access-A-Ride service. The Authority’s paratransit service requires ID when customers apply to become a paratransit customer. Once they are an eligible customer, they need to show ID every time they board the vehicle, which can be an AAR ID, a state ID, and now also an IDNYC card.
This latest effort, a recommendation put forth in the Fare Evasion Report released last month, expands the reach of the MTA’s Reduced-Fare program as IDNYC is widely used by lower income New Yorkers from all backgrounds. The comprehensive report to combat fare evasion included taking a look at how to better support New York’s low-income transit riders.
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Reduced-Fare MetroCard holders are also eligible to receive discounted tickets on the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad at all times except weekday morning peak trains.
“Accepting IDNYC is one of the more immediate solutions we can implement that expands the opportunity to offer financial assistance through reduced fares to more New Yorkers,” said MTA Acting Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara. “We receive hundreds of applications daily for reduced fares and expanding this is a great step to making sure that we are doing what we can on our end to better serve transit riders.”
“Having an IDNYC card has already made it easier for New Yorkers to benefit from essential services from the City,” said New York City Transit President Richard Davey. “Now, IDNYC card holders can benefit from the same ease to receive reduced fares as they ride the subway and bus system. Increasing access to Reduced-Fare customers who rely on transit to get around is a win for the city, the transit system, and the countless customers who will benefit.”
“Access-a-ride provides a critical service for customers who are unable to use our fixed-route system,” said MTA Vice President for Paratransit Chris Pangilinan. “Branching out to customers who use IDNYC as their main source of identification opens the opportunity for them to potentially have access to paratransit service like tens of thousands of New Yorkers who already benefit from it every day.”
“Mobility is a critical piece of delivering equity. As an immigrant myself and proud supporter of IDNYC, this new policy is a great way to expand transportation access to more New Yorkers,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We thank MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber and his staff for taking this important step and look forward to more great partnerships between the City and MTA in the future.”
“Our City is constantly seeking innovative solutions to bridge resources and services to immigrant communities,” said Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs Manuel Castro. “Adding IDNYC as an accepted document will increase the accessibility of NYC transportation and services to many New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status or income.”
“In choosing to accept IDNYC as a valid identification, the MTA continues to strengthen access to critical reduced-fare and paratransit programs for vulnerable New Yorkers while simultaneously bolstering the utility of the IDNYC card,” said New York City Department of Social Services First Deputy Commissioner Jill Berry. “We are committed to ensuring that every New Yorker has access to the resources and services they deserve, and we are again thrilled to partner with the MTA on efforts to make public transit more equitable and accessible.”
“I applaud the MTA for accepting IDNYC when applying for Reduced-Fare MetroCards, OMNY cards, and Access-A-Ride service,” said NYC Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, Chair of the Council’s Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “This policy change will improve access to critical reduced-fare and paratransit programs for riders who rely on our mass transit system every day.”
“For thousands of immigrant New Yorkers, IDNYC opens doors to essential City resources. Now with this new partnership with the MTA, it’s also a gateway to accessing our entire transit network,” said New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif, Chair of the Immigration Committee. “I’m deeply grateful to the MTA for expanding this essential program and providing access to affordable fares for our immigrant neighbors. Through continued work with the Council, my hope is we can expand this important program to incomes up to 200% above the federal poverty line to ensure nearly a million New Yorkers can access discounted transit passes.”
For subways and local buses, the reduced fare is $1.35, compared with the base fare $2.75. Reduced fares are available for riders who are 65 or older or have a qualifying disability. Customers can apply online, apply by mail, or in person at any Customer Service Center or a MetroCard Bus or Van. For a list of location of mobile sales vehicles, see here.
For more information about IDNYC, visit About – IDNYC.
