How do I use my Military Service Pass to get free transit?
Tap your Ventra Military Service Pass to the lower portion of the Ventra reader, which is prominent as you enter the bus and is on top of the turnstile at 'L' stations.
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I am retired from the military. Am I eligible for a Military Service Pass?
No, only active duty military personnel and disabled veterans who have a qualifying service-connected disability (as outlined above) are eligible for the Military Service Pass. If you are 65 years of age or older, you may be eligible for the RTA Senior Reduced Fare or Ride Free Program. Contact the RTA at 1-312-913-3110 or go to rtachicago.com for details.
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How and where do I obtain my Military Service Pass?
Please complete the Military Pass Program Application form and send with the required supporting documents to:
Ventra
CTA Ventra Military Pass Program
PO Box 8291
Chicago, IL 60680
Your pass will be mailed to you. Please call Ventra Customer Service at 1-877-NOW-VENTRA (1-877-669-8368) with any questions.
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How do I replace my lost, stolen or damaged MSP?
Please complete the Military Pass Program Application form and send, along with replacement card cost, to:
Ventra
CTA Ventra Military Pass Program
PO Box 8291
Chicago, IL 60680
Call 1-877-NOW-VENTRA (1-877-669-8368) to speak with a customer service rep about replacing your card through the mail.
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What is required to confirm my eligibility?
- For active duty military personnel, an Armed Forces ID card.
- For disabled veterans, an official letter from the USDVA indicating eligibility for a qualifying service-connected disability payment as outlined above, along with a valid state ID card.
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Am I eligible for a Military Service Pass?
You are eligible for a Military Service Pass if you qualify as:
- Chicago area active duty military personnel and possess an Armed Forces ID Card;
- An actively drilling member of the National Guard and Reserves who possesses an Armed Forces ID card or a member of the Coast Guard with appropriate identification.
- A Chicago area disabled veteran who has a qualifying service-connected disability and can provide proof that: you are in receipt of United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs (USDVA) disability compensation of 10% or greater; or you are receiving military disability retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
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What if I am on active duty and in uniform?
You can ride for free and do not need to use your Military Service Pass. However, if you are on active duty but not in uniform, you must have a Military Service Pass in order to ride for free.
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