SACRAMENTO, CA — The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) announced today that new RydeFreeRT cards, valid June 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, are now available for students and youth across the Sacramento region. RydeFreeRT provides fare‑free transit for all youth in grades TK–12, including students experiencing homelessness or participating in foster programs.

Launched in October 2019, RydeFreeRT has grown into one of SacRT’s most successful and impactful community programs. In FY 2025 alone, youth took more than 5 million rides using RydeFreeRT, traveling to school, jobs, after‑school activities, libraries, and essential services.

At last night’s meeting, the SacRT Board of Directors approved continuing the RydeFreeRT pass for another year and authorized SacRT’s General Manager to negotiate contracts needed to secure funding for the program. RydeFreeRT is made possible through funding partnerships with local jurisdictions and school districts, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to mobility for students. SacRT continues to work toward securing a long‑term, sustainable funding source to ensure the program’s future.

“RydeFreeRT continues to be one of the most impactful programs SacRT has ever offered,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “By providing access to safe, reliable public transit at no additional cost to youth in the Sacramento region, we are removing transportation barriers and creating more opportunities across our region.”

“RydeFreeRT is an investment in our youth and in the future of our communities,” said SacRT Board Chair and Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh‑Allen. “Whether students are traveling to school, a summer job, or important community programs, this initiative ensures they can get where they need to go without cost being a barrier. We encourage families to pick up their new cards and take full advantage of this resource.”

How Students Can Get a RydeFreeRT Card

School districts have received cards for distribution to students at school sites. Youth who still need a card can obtain one at:

• Their school office
• SacRT’s Customer Service and Sales Center at 1225 R Street (next to the 13th Street Station)
• Sacramento County public libraries

Students simply show their valid RydeFreeRT card when boarding a bus or upon request from a light rail fare inspector.

A Program That Makes a Difference

RydeFreeRT has become a nationally recognized model for youth mobility, reducing transportation costs for families while encouraging lifelong transit use. Last year, students relied on the program for over 5 million trips to school, libraries, jobs, and recreational activities.

Learn More

For additional information about RydeFreeRT, including card pickup locations and program FAQs, visit sacrt.com/rydefreert.