Senior Riders
OC Transpo's FREE fare special for seniors!
Seniors 65 and older can ride free all-day on Wednesdays. This offer includes all bus routes and the O-Train, but does not include Para Transpo. Please be prepared to show proof of age to the operator.
Taking transit to go shopping, get to appointments or just visit friends is now more affordable than ever. The best time to travel is weekdays during the mid-day.
Create your own personalized travel plan with the Quick Planner; or if you prefer to call us for your travel planning needs, just dial 613-741-4390.
For more accessible information, call the Access hotline at 613-842-3625.
Click on the links below to find out more about being a Senior Rider:
Comfort
Most buses are air-conditioned for summer comfort, and all of the buses and the O-Train are fully accessible for easy boarding.The buses can “kneel” or lower to the curb so that boarding is easier.
Priority seating is available near the front of the bus for anyone who has difficulty standing.
If you need assistance to travel, you can get a free Attendant card. The Attendant card will allow someone to accompany you on OC Transpo at no charge when you pay your fare.
Tips
The bus operator can help make your trip easier! You can ask the bus operator to:
- "kneel" or lower the bus, or extend the ramp so that boarding is easier
- make a "priority seating" announcement if you find that all the priority seats are full
- wait until you are seated before pulling away from the stop
- announce your destination stop
Fares
Seniors 65 and older can ride free all-day on Wednesdays. This offer includes all bus routes and the O-Train, but does not include Para Transpo. Please be prepared to show proof of age to the operator.
A discounted monthly pass is available for seniors who are 65 +. The pass lets you ride any route, including the O-Train. If you pay with cash and take more than ten return trips a month, a pass will save you money. You'll need to get an OC Transpo seniors photo ID card to accompany your pass — available at any OC Transpo Sales and Information Centres.
Seniors who pay-per-ride with cash or PRESTO will save on regular-fare routes - pay just $2 per trip any day of the week. This is a big savings compared to adult fares or bus tickets.
Rural Transportation Options
If you are a senior citizen living with a physical disability in rural Ottawa, there are many options available to help you travel to, from, or within your community:
- Rural Community Support Services
- Para Transpo
- Taxi Coupon Prgram
- Weekly Rural Shoppers' Bus
» More information on Rural transportation options
Para Transpo
For anyone unable to safely use OC Transpo’s conventional transit service, Para Transpo’s door-to-door service may be an option. Check your eligibility.
» More information on Para Transpo service and registration
Taxi Coupon
The Taxi Coupon program is a pilot project that allows Para Transpo customers to take discounted taxi service as an alternative to Para Transpo. You can book your trip, at your convenience, with participating Ottawa taxi companies and save 40% off the regular taxi fare.
PRESTO - Online not in Line
Load your PRESTO card online so that you don't have to wait in line!
PRESTO - Load Your Card
Load your PRESTO card to pay-per-ride!
Cooperative Seating
Rider Respect
One seat per person.