ENAs students across the Sacramento region head back to school, Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) is reminding families that getting to class has never been easier or more affordable, thanks to the RydeFreeRT program. Now entering its sixth year, RydeFreeRT provides unlimited fare-free rides on SacRT buses and light rail for all students and youth in grades TK through 12. With a valid RydeFreeRT card, students can ride any day, any time, all year long—for school, after-school activities, jobs, or weekend fun.
“The RydeFreeRT program has been a game-changer for students and families in the Sacramento region,” said Henry Li, SacRT General Manager/CEO. “We are proud to continue this program for another year and help eliminate transportation barriers for our youth.”
“This program is about opportunity and investing in the future of our youth,” said SacRT Board Chair and Sacramento City Councilmember Rick Jennings. “Access to reliable, fare-free transportation opens doors for students to succeed both in and out of the classroom. I’m proud to support another year of RydeFreeRT.”
How RydeFreeRT Works
Students in grades TK–12 who live or attend school within the SacRT service area are eligible for the program. Youth experiencing homelessness or participating in foster care programs also qualify, regardless of residence or school enrollment.
RydeFreeRT cards are distributed through schools and are valid from June 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Students can also obtain a card year-round at the SacRT Customer Service and Sales Center located at 1225 R Street (accessible via light rail to the 13th Street Station) or any Sacramento Public Library branch.
To ride fare-free, students simply show their valid RydeFreeRT card to the bus operator when boarding or upon request on light rail trains. The card can be used for school, work, recreation, and more—even during school breaks and holidays.
Background and Impact
RydeFreeRT was launched in 2019 as a pilot program initiated by former Sacramento City Councilmember and SacRT Board Chair Jay Schenirer to combat chronic absenteeism and expand transportation options for students. A study by the University of Texas found that the program significantly increased both student transit ridership and school attendance.
In the first month of the program, SacRT saw a 40% increase in student ridership, and this year alone the program is on track to carry over five million student boardings, over a 300% increase since launch.
While funding levels are expected to remain flat in Fiscal Year 2026, SacRT continues to pursue long-term, sustainable funding to support and grow the program. SacRT has been working with the Nehemiah Emerging Leaders Program (NELP) Class XV for their class project, “Making RydeFreeRT Sustainable.” NELP is a selective 10-month professional development program that prepares its Fellows for effective and ethical leadership in their companies and communities. Their report included key findings and strategic recommendations.
Beyond academic benefits of reducing absenteeism and increasing attendance, RydeFreeRT also encourages lifelong transit habits, contributes to reduced traffic congestion, and supports environmental sustainability goals in the region.
For more information about the program and how to obtain a card, visit rydefreert.com.