Tempe Youth Transit Pass Program

The Tempe Youth Transit Pass Program allows youth ages 6 to 18, who can provide proof of Tempe residency and age to ride the bus and future METRO light rail for free.  In order to receive the pass, youth 6 to 17 must:

• have their parent/guardian sign a permission form,

• have their parent/guardian accompany the youth to the Transit Store, and

• bring the youth’s birth certificate (and parent ID) when registering for the program.

Both the youth and parent/guardian must be present to get the transit pass. Free passes are available  at the Tempe Transit Store, located at 200 E. Fifth Street, 1st floor Avenue Monday through Saturday  from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Download a 2008-2009 registration form

Proof of Tempe residency:

• A recent utility bill with a Tempe address (i.e., water, cable, electric) OR

• A valid Arizona driver’s license/photo ID card for youth or parent showing a Tempe address. 

Proof of parental status must include:

• Youth’s birth certificate and a valid driver’s license/photo ID of parent. 

Proof of step parent status must include:

• Marriage license, a valid driver’s license/photo ID of step parent and youth’s birth certificate. 

Proof of guardianship must include:

• Guardianship papers, a valid driver’s license/photo ID of guardian and youth’s birth certificate. 

For people age 18 ONLY: Proof of eligibility must include:

• A valid Arizona driver’s license with a Tempe address, ID card or US passport with Tempe address. 

Where do I go to get my transit pass? You can get the pass at the Tempe Transit Store located at 200 E. Fifth Street, 1st floor Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What happens if I lose my card? You can get a new card by paying a $5 replacement fee. To get a replacement card, visit the Tempe Transit Store. 

Is the Youth transit pass only good for taking trips to school? No. You can use your transit pass to travel for any purpose to any destination on any Valley Metro bus route or on the METRO light rail line. Use your transit pass on weekends, holidays, and even during school breaks.  

How often do the buses run? The city of Tempe and Valley Metro offer bus service seven days a week. Most Tempe buses run Monday through Saturday until 1 a.m. and Sunday until 10 p.m., with rush hour service every 15 minutes Monday through Friday from 6 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. For a complete list of bus routes and schedules, visit www.valleymetro.org or call 602-253-5000.

How often will the METRO light rail run? STARTING DECEMBER 2008: The METRO will likely run seven days a week every 10 minutes during daylight hours (and every 20 minutes during all other times) from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.  For more information about METRO, visit www.valleymetro.org or call 602-253-5000. 

Can I ride the bus/METRO if I have a disability? Yes. The METRO and all Valley Metro buses are wheelchair accessible. 

What if I ride my bicycle to school? The METRO and all buses are equipped with bike racks, and most Tempe schools provide convenient bicycle parking so you can bike and bus.