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SeniorsBC

Public Transit

Seniors’ Fare Discounts

The province’s public transit systems all offer discount fares for those 65 and over. Present your B.C. gold CareCard when you pay your fare.

For more information, visit these public transit websites:

Bus Pass Program

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Low-income seniors and persons with disabilities may be eligible to buy a yearly bus pass at a reduced cost through the B.C. Bus Pass Program.

This pass lets you travel on BC Transit and on all TransLink zones (including bus, Community Shuttle, SkyTrain and SeaBus) without extra cost, but it is not valid on HandyDART. The pass allows the holder to concession fares on West Coast Express.

To be eligible for the Bus Pass Program, you must live in an area serviced by public transit, and at least one of the following statements must apply to you:

  • You receive federal Old Age Security (OAS), plus either the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) or Spouse’s Allowance
  • You are between 60 and 64 and receive BC Employment and Assistance
  • You receive disability assistance under BC Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities
  • You are an immigrant who would qualify for the OAS and either the GIS or Allowance but you do not meet the residency requirements

For more information about the Bus Pass Program, visit the Ministry of Social Development website.

Community Travel Training Program

The Community Travel Training Program provides free training to seniors and people with disabilities who wish to use regular transit service. This program will show you how to use public transit so that you are comfortable with using the system on your own.

Special Transportation Subsidy

If you’re on disability assistance and can’t use public transit because of your disability, you may be eligible for the Special Transportation Subsidy (STS). This subsidy is available in the same communities as the Bus Pass Program. For more information about the Special Transportation Subsidy, visit the Ministry of Social Development website.

HandyCard

HandyCard is a photo-identity card. If you live within the TransLink service area (Metro Vancouver), HandyCard lets you travel for reduced fares (“Concession fares”) on the bus, Community Shuttle, SkyTrain, SeaBus and West Coast Express. (Note: the HandyCard cannot be used on HandyDART.)

If you travel using your HandyCard and are accompanied by someone who is assisting you, that person can ride for free.

To apply for your HandyCard, download an application through the TransLink website.

A medical authority (family doctor, health nurse or physical therapist) will have to complete part of your application form to verify your disability.

Greyhound and VIA Rail

For longer trips by bus or rail, Greyhound and VIA Rail may be other transportation options to consider. Both companies offer seniors discounts.