CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)
Free rides on all CTA bus and rail services for veterans rated 10%+ disability.
State BenefitIllinoisTransportation
Verified May 12, 2026 against transitchicago.com
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Transportation — Illinois
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 10% or higher
- Estimated value
- $1,200+/year for regular commuters
- Where it applies
- Illinois
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)?
CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit) is a Illinois transportation benefit for veterans. Free rides on all CTA bus and rail services for veterans rated 10%+ disability. Requires 10%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is $1,200+/year for regular commuters.
Who qualifies
- Veterans
- Requires 10%+ VA disability rating
- Illinois residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Veterans receiving USDVA service-connected disability compensation of 10% or greater, OR receiving military disability retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
What CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit) covers
Covers
Free rides on all CTA bus and rail services. Works only on CTA (not Metra or Pace).
Important to know
Official USDVA letter dated within the last 12 months indicating a service-connected disability of 10% or greater.
How to apply for CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)
How to apply
New applications: mail a completed application with documentation to CTA Ventra Military Pass Program, PO Box 8291, Chicago, IL 60680. In-person applications and replacements: Ventra Service Center. Phone: 877-NOW-VENTRA (877-669-8368).
Verified information & sources
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
- Official source
- transitchicago.com
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)
Who qualifies for CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)?
CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit) is for Veterans; requires 10%+ VA disability rating; illinois residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
What VA disability rating do I need for CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)?
Requires 10%+ VA disability rating.
How much is CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit) worth?
The listed value is $1,200+/year for regular commuters. Amounts can change — confirm the current figure at the official source linked on this page.
How do I apply for CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify CTA Military Service Pass (Free Transit)?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.