Riding The Cta Bus: Kids Go Free

do kids ride free on cta bus

If you're travelling with young children on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), you may be wondering about fares. Well, wonder no more! Kids under the age of 7 ride free, and for children aged 7-11, there's a reduced fare. So, if you're planning a trip to Chicago and want to use the 'L' or bus to get around, you can rest assured that your little ones won't need a ticket.

Characteristics Values
Age limit for free rides Under 7
Fare for children aged 7-11 Reduced

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Children under 7 ride free on CTA buses

If you're travelling with young children on buses in Chicago, there's good news—children under 7 ride free on Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains! This can be a great money-saving option for families and caregivers.

So, how does it work in practice? Well, when you arrive at the station, you'll need to locate a member of staff to help you with the turnstiles. CTA employees are present at each station, so you can simply ask for assistance. They will ensure that you and your child can pass through the turnstiles without any issues. It's important to use an L entrance that has an attendant. If you're boarding a bus, you can speak directly to the bus driver, who will be able to help you.

It's worth noting that children between the ages of 7 and 11 are eligible for reduced fares on the CTA. So, if you're travelling with slightly older children, you won't necessarily need to pay full price for their tickets. This can be especially useful for longer journeys or regular commutes.

Taking public transportation in Chicago with young children is therefore a straightforward and cost-effective option. With helpful staff on hand and reduced fares for older kids, it's an excellent choice for families looking to get around the city. So, whether you're visiting Chicago or are a resident exploring your own city, don't hesitate to take advantage of this convenient option.

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Children from 7-11 pay a reduced fare

When riding the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus with children, those from 7 to 11 years of age will need to pay a reduced fare. This is unlike younger children, who are allowed to ride for free.

To ensure that children between 7 and 11 years of age are correctly charged, you will need to find a station attendant to help you through the turnstiles. It is important to use L entrances that have an attendant. CTA employees are present at each station and will be able to assist you.

If you are unsure about the payment process for children's fares, it is recommended to refer to the official CTA website for the most up-to-date and accurate information. The website should provide details on the reduced fare for children from 7 to 11 and any other relevant transit information for passengers travelling with children.

When planning your trip on the CTA bus with children in this age group, it is important to be aware of the reduced fare requirement. This knowledge will help you prepare the correct fare in advance and ensure a smooth journey. By following the guidance provided, you can easily navigate the payment process and make the most of the transit system with your children.

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Attendants at stations will help you get through the turnstiles

If you're travelling with children under 7, attendants at CTA stations will help you get through the turnstiles. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) allows up to three children under 7 to ride free with a fare-paying rider. So, if you're travelling with kids under 7, you'll need to find a station attendant to help you navigate the turnstiles.

When boarding a CTA bus, you can pay with cash, a Ventra Card, a Ventra disposable ticket, a contactless credit or debit card, or certain smartphones. The Ventra Card can be purchased online, at Ventra Vending Machines in CTA rail stations, or at authorised retailers. It offers various fare options, including single-ride, 24-hour unlimited ride, 3-day unlimited ride, 7-day unlimited ride, and 30-day unlimited ride.

If you're riding the CTA train, cash is not accepted at the turnstiles. You must use a Ventra Card, Ventra Ticket, contactless payment, or a mobile wallet like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. The Ventra Card can be purchased and reloaded at Ventra Vending Machines located at CTA train stations.

It's important to note that CTA buses and trains have different fare options and rules. When travelling with children under 7, it's always a good idea to seek assistance from station attendants or bus drivers to ensure a smooth journey.

The CTA is an Illinois independent governmental agency that operates mass transit in Chicago and some of its suburbs. It provides bus and train services, covering numerous routes and stations. With high ridership numbers, the CTA plays a crucial role in facilitating transportation across the region.

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Use L entrances with an attendant

If you're travelling with children under the age of seven on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses, you can take advantage of the free rides offered to up to three children under this age when accompanied by a fare-paying rider. This is also applicable for children between 7 and 11 years of age, who are eligible for reduced fares.

To navigate the turnstiles with young children, you'll need to locate a station attendant. These attendants are present at the L entrances of stations, so ensure you use these entrances when travelling with children under seven. The attendants will assist you in getting through the turnstiles without any issues.

The L entrances with attendants are typically located at the larger stations, so if you're unsure, you can refer to the CTA website or seek assistance from the CTA employees at the station. They will be able to guide you in the right direction and ensure a smooth journey for you and your children.

It's important to note that the CTA operates both buses and trains, and the L entrances specifically refer to the train stations. The CTA provides a vast network of transportation options in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, so familiarise yourself with the specific station layouts and don't hesitate to ask for help if needed.

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CTA employees are present at each station to assist

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the operator of mass transit in Chicago, Illinois, and some of its suburbs. CTA employees are present at each station to assist. This includes the trains of the Chicago "L" and the CTA bus service. The CTA operates 24 hours a day and provides, on average, 1.7 million rides on buses and trains each weekday.

The CTA has approximately 1,800 buses that operate over 140 routes, serving more than 12,000 posted bus stops. The CTA's 1,450 train cars operate over eight routes and serve 146 stations in Chicago and seven suburbs. With such a vast network and a large number of passengers, having employees at each station is essential for ensuring a smooth travel experience.

CTA employees are available to assist passengers with various needs and inquiries. For example, passengers travelling with young children may require assistance with turnstiles. Children under seven can ride free with a fare-paying rider, but they need help from a station attendant to get through the turnstiles. CTA employees are present to facilitate such situations and ensure that families can navigate the system easily.

In addition to turnstile assistance, CTA employees at stations can provide a range of other services. They can offer directions, help with trip planning, and provide information about fares, schedules, and service updates. Their presence enhances the overall travel experience, making it more accessible and user-friendly for all passengers, including visitors and those with limited mobility.

The CTA is committed to providing a reliable and accessible transit system for all. The presence of employees at each station is a vital part of this commitment, ensuring that passengers can readily access the information and assistance they need to navigate Chicago's extensive public transportation network.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, kids under 7 ride free on the CTA bus.

You will need to find a station attendant to help you get through the turnstiles.

Not all entrances have attendants. Make sure to use L entrances that have an attendant.

No, children from 7-11 pay a reduced fare.

Yes, there are CTA employees at each station to assist you.

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