How to Get a Discounted RTD Bus Pass in Denver
Getting around Denver without money for a bus pass is a real barrier to shelter, work, and appointments. Several programs offer free or deeply discounted RTD passes to people experiencing homelessness — here's how to access them.
Quick options — fastest way to get a ride today
Ask a day center or shelter for a bus pass
Many Denver day centers and shelters keep RTD passes on hand to give out. This is the fastest way to get a single-ride or day pass with no paperwork. Try: St. Francis Cabrini, Denver Day Program at the Denver Rescue Mission, or the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless day center.
Call 211 for immediate transit assistance
Dial 2-1-1 and explain you need transit assistance to get to an appointment, shelter, or services. Navigators can connect you with organizations that have RTD passes or arrange free transportation.
ColoPRSP — Reduced fare RTD card
The Colorado Public Reduced-fare Subsidized Program (ColoPRSP) provides an RTD reduced-fare MyRide card to people who qualify based on income or disability. The fare reduction is 50% off standard RTD prices.
Who qualifies
- People with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
- People receiving SSI, SNAP, Medicaid, or other public benefits
- People with a qualifying disability
How to apply — step by step
- Get documentation of your income or benefits A letter from a case worker or proof of SNAP/Medicaid enrollment works. If you have no documents, a letter from a shelter staff member on letterhead may be accepted.
- Go to an RTD Customer Center The main location is 1600 Blake St, Denver. Hours: Mon–Fri 8am–5pm. Bring your documentation and a photo ID if you have one (not always required).
- Fill out the ColoPRSP application Staff will verify your eligibility and issue a reduced-fare MyRide card on the spot or by mail.
- Load the card at any RTD fare vending machine Once you have the card, you pay half price on all RTD buses, light rail, and commuter rail.
Free RTD passes through Denver programs
Denver Human Services — Transportation Assistance
DHS case workers can provide RTD passes for people engaged in services. If you have a case worker through DHS, ask them directly.
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless
CCH case managers often provide bus passes to clients. If you are receiving services at Stout Street or another CCH program, ask your case manager.
Denver Rescue Mission
The Denver Rescue Mission day program distributes bus passes for people attending programs and appointments. Ask at the front desk at 1130 Park Ave W.
Urban Peak (Youth 15–24)
Urban Peak provides RTD passes to youth clients as part of their case management services. Drop in at 730 21st St.
Neighborhood Ride — Free rides for low-income seniors and people with disabilities
Neighborhood Ride is a free door-to-door transportation service in Denver for eligible low-income seniors (60+) and people with disabilities. Trips must be booked in advance.
- Call 720-337-2885 to apply and book rides
- Free for eligible residents — no fare, no co-pay
- Must schedule at least 1 business day in advance
What if you don't have an ID?
Some RTD and program passes require a photo ID. If you don't have one, getting a free Colorado ID is your next step. Read our guide:
→ How to get a free Colorado ID in Denver when homeless
Always ask anywhere you get services
Shelters, day centers, clinics, and benefit offices often have RTD passes they distribute to people attending appointments. It never hurts to ask. Many organizations receive bus pass donations specifically to give out for free.