Transportation for People with Disabilities
Introducing Pace’s Rideshare Access Program (RAP). RAP is a NEW option available for ADA paratransit riders starting March 11, 2024.
RAP is more convenient than ADA Paratransit since you can book rides at a moment's notice and is also less expensive!
With the Rideshare Access Program (RAP), ADA-eligible riders can receive a Pace subsidy for Uber or UZURV trips provided within the ADA service area. RAP offers a subsidy of trips up to $30 in value after a $2.00 fare.
For more information on how RAP works, click here.
Fixed Route Bus Service
Pace operates a fixed route bus system which is entirely accessible to people with disabilities, and our sister agencies--CTA and Metra--offer accessible transit service as well. For senior citizens and people with disabilities, fixed route is a less expensive way to get around your community and gives you the freedom to travel without arranging a ride in advance. The Regional Transportation Authority offers a training program for those who wish to learn how to ride fixed route.
Free Rides on Pace Fixed Routes for ADA Certified Riders!
As of February 19, 2024, ADA Paratransit riders with disabilities who are certified for ADA Paratransit by the RTA can ride for free on Pace fixed route buses.
Did you know that all of Pace’s fixed route buses are fully accessible for seniors and riders with disabilities? These routes can connect you to train stations, schools, hospitals, jobs, and other important destinations throughout the suburbs, and don’t require a reservation to ride.
Pace’s fixed route buses feature ramps, dedicated seating areas, audio and visual stop announcements, and other accessibility features. Certified ADA Paratransit customers can now ride these fixed route buses for free!
PLEASE NOTE: To ensure your ride is free, DON’T tap your ADA Paratransit card on the Ventra reader. Simply SHOW your card to the driver when you board.
Pace On Demand, ADA Paratransit, Taxi Access Program (TAP) and DuPage Uber trips are not included in the free fare program.
Also, this free fare program does not cover CTA or Metra; however, ADA certified riders can still ride CTA, Metra and Pace's On Demand services at a reduced rate.
Please note that a rider’s eligibility for ADA Paratransit will not change due to taking advantage of the free and convenient rides on fixed route buses.
Reduced Fares on Pace, CTA & Metra (for non-ADA riders)
The RTA Reduced Fare Permit enables seniors 65 and older, people with disabilities who are not ADA paratransit certified and individuals with a valid Medicare card to ride Pace, CTA, and Metra at a reduced rate. For information on how to apply for an RTA Reduced Fare Permit, visit RTA or call 836-7000 (all area codes).
In fact, for those seniors and people with disabilities who are enrolled in the Illinois Department on Aging's Benefit Access Program, trips on CTA and Metra are free too! Visit the Benefit Access website for instructions in how to enroll in the Benefit Access Program.
The Regional Transportation Authority offers a mobility education program for those who wish to learn how to ride fixed route.
Pace’s fixed route bus and van fleets are all accessible to people with disabilities or health conditions, and our award-winning ADA Paratransit system and various local Dial-a-Ride programs offer service that is exclusively dedicated to this community.
ADA Paratransit
We also understand that fixed route service is not for everyone, and for those riders whose disability prevents them from using fixed route, Pace is proud to operate one of the largest paratransit systems in the world. “Paratransit” is the general term for a service in which a passenger must reserve a ride in advance. Unlike fixed-route service, in which buses travel the same route in a regular pattern and pick up any waiting passengers, paratransit services make only pre-arranged trips for eligible riders. See more about Pace's paratransit services here.
Customers must get certified to take advantage of ADA paratransit service or reduced fares.
More information:
- Information for new riders and frequently asked questions:
- and
- (personal care attendant)
- Advantage Vanpools for transportation to sheltered workshops
- Pace Vanpool lets people who live and work near each other to use a Pace-owned van for use in getting to work
In Chicago
Every CTA bus is fully accessible to persons with disabilities, and many CTA rail ("L") stations are as well. Pace is Chicago’s paratransit provider. Customers whose disability or health condition prevents them from using Pace and CTA buses and trains are entitled to equal service under the Americans with Disabilities Act, so Pace provides ADA paratransit service whenever and wherever fixed route service is available.
Other services:
- The Taxi Access Program (TAP) for discounted cab rides and same-day travel
- Connections to fully accessible fixed bus routes
In the Suburbs
Pace operates more than 200 fixed bus routes in Chicago’s suburbs. These routes connect millions of people to train stations, schools, hospitals, jobs, and other important destinations. Buses in this system feature ramps, dedicated seating, and other accessibility features. Certified ADA paratransit customers can ride fixed route buses for free!
Passengers who are sometimes or always unable to use our fixed route system are entitled to equal service under the Americans with Disabilities Act, so Pace provides ADA Paratransit service whenever and wherever fixed route service is available. Some villages, townships, or counties partner with Pace to provide expanded paratransit (Dial-a-Ride) service in certain areas.
More information:
- Additional paratransit service through Pace’s Dial-a-Ride partnerships
- On Demand: a reservation-based service open to all riders in a designated area
Training, Policies, and More Information
- Training programs for individuals learning to use Pace
- Pace's
- Chicago & Suburban ADA Advisory Committees
- ADA Paratransit service directory
