Kids 12 and under now ride for free on OC Transpo

Published Jul 08, 2023 • Last updated 59 minutes ago • 1 minute read

As of July 1, kids 12 and under can travel free on Trans buses, the LRT or Para Transpo. FILE PHOTO Photo by ERROL MCGIHON /ERROL MCGIHON

Kids 12 and under are now able to ride for free on all OC Transpo services.

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The measure called “Kids Go Free” was contained in the service’s 2023 budget. It kicked in July 1 and covers all buses, trains and Para Transpo service.

Previously, free service was available only to children aged seven and under.

Now children taking buses or Para Transpo can simply board without paying a fare.

On O-Train Line 1, children can enter through an accessible (wide) fare gate along with a fare-paying adult.

Alternatively, at O-Train stations, children can tap an OC Transpo “child card” (available for free at the OC Transpo service centre at the Rideau Centre) or use a Presto card issued by a school board.

Customer service agents will be available to help on video chat at ticket machines, at the information phone near the fare gates, or by calling 613-560- 5000.

Due to the fare changes:

• Presto cards for a child fare are no longer required after July 1;

• Family DayPass has changed to the 2-for-1 DayPass. Now two customers aged 13 or older can take unlimited rides on a single DayPass;

• The 2-for-1 DayPass is available on weekends and statutory holidays.

For more information, check OC Transpo’s customer communications channels, including octranspo.com, social media, and posters at stations. A promotional video has also been developed for more information at https://www.octranspo.com/en/news/article/kids-go-free/