Governor Maura Healey recently announced that enrollment for the Car-Free Seniors Pilot Program, a new initiative providing free MBTA service to Massachusetts residents age 75 and older who no longer drive, will open on October 13, 2026.
In partnership with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), the program will allow eligible seniors who hold a Massachusetts identification card, rather than a driver’s license, to obtain a free-fare credential valid across the MBTA’s bus, subway, ferry, and Commuter Rail services.
How to Enroll in the Car-Free Seniors Pilot:
- Obtain a Massachusetts ID: Residents must have a Massachusetts ID card to participate in the pilot. A Massachusetts ID is an official form of identification that does not provide driving privileges. Residents who do not already have one can apply through the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Learn more on the RMV website.
To apply for a Mass ID, complete the Registry of Motor Vehicles application.
- Once you have a Mass ID or if an individual has one already, apply for the Car-Free Seniors free-fare credential
Online (beginning October 13): Qualified residents who have a Mass ID and who want to be part of the pilot may obtain their free-fare credential by completing the application online. The application will only be available beginning October 13. Applicants who use the online form will receive the credential via mail or can elect to pick up their credential in-person. Check here for updates.
In person (beginning October 13): Seniors may also visit the Charlie Service Center to apply for the credential beginning October 13, 2026. The Charlie Service Center is located at 296 Washington St, between Milk Street and Water Street. The center is near the State Street and Downtown Crossing MBTA stations and is fully accessible. Riders who visit the Charlie Service Center for their free-fare credential will be able to obtain a temporary credential the day of their visit. A permanent credential will be mailed following the visit.
This summer, Governor Healey announced a series of new and extended MBTA affordability programs to lower costs and make public transportation more flexible and easier to use. The package included 50 percent off monthly Commuter Rail passes from September through November, an extension of the $1 Weekend Companion Fare, new two-hour unlimited transfer windows, the elimination of higher express bus fares and the new Car-Free Seniors Pilot.
The Car-Free Seniors Pilot was announced as part of that package, with the launch date to be finalized this fall. Today’s announcement sets October 13 as the date eligible seniors can begin enrolling for free travel across MBTA bus, subway, ferry and Commuter Rail services.