RTC Overview
The Regional Transit Connection (RTC) Discount ID Card is available to persons with qualifying disabilities. You may use the card as proof of eligibility to receive discount fares on fixed-route, rail and ferry systems throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The RTC Program does not apply to paratransit services.
Applications are accepted at Petaluma Transit and then forwarded to a central office where applications are reviewed, information is verified and an eligibility determination is made. An RTC Discount ID Card will be mailed to eligible applicants within 21 days.
Applying for an RTC Card
When applying for a Discount ID Card:
- Complete an application form for either “Basic Eligibility” or “Medical Eligibility (this form is available at our offices or you can contact us and we will mail it out to you)”
- Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
- Present valid government issued photo identification – such as a current California driver’s license, California Identification Card, U.S. passport, Alien Registration Card, U.S. Military Identification Card or Military Dependent Card.
- Pay the appropriate fee:
- $3.00 new, renewal, or visitor
- $5.00 replacement
- Fees are non-refundable.
- For “Basic” eligibility, you must also bring the applicable documentation listed on the form.
- Your photo will be taken at the transit agency where you submit your application.
When you receive your RTC Discount ID card, you will be immediately eligible for reduced fares on all participating transit systems. No additional proof of eligibility is required, but you must show the Discount ID Card at the time you pay the fare.
Renewing a Card
A renewal notice will be sent to you two months prior to the expiration date on your card if you have a permanent disability, or if you provided a Medicare card as proof of eligibility. Other “non-permanent” cardholders must complete the application process each time their card expires. It is your responsibility to ensure that the transit agency has your current address.
If you are a Senior who has been using an RTC card, you will be asked to apply for a Senior Clipper card when your RTC card expires.
If you do not receive a mail reminder,
- Download the Renewal Application (PDF) or you may contact us to and request a renewal application.
- Mail your completed application to the RTC Central Processor (address below) with a $3 personal or cashier’s check (Do NOT send cash). Or you may bring your completed application and $3 fee to your transit agency.
RTC Central Processor
P.O. Box 70040
Oakland CA 94612-0040
For those using DMV Disabled Parking Placards
Your renewal application cannot be processed until your new DMV Placard number is submitted and verified.
- If applying in person, bring the DMV Placard registration issued by the DMV with you.
- If applying by mail, send a photocopy of the receipt with your application.
Replacing Lost or Stolen Cards
First, check with your local transit agency to see if the card has been returned. If so, you may reclaim your old card at no cost.
If not, download the Lost/Replacement Card Application (PDF). You can contact us and request a form.
You can also mail the application or a written request for a replacement directly to:
RTC Central Processor
P.O. Box 70040
Oakland CA 94612-0040
Be sure to include your name (as it appears on your card), card identification number (if you have it), date of birth and current address with a written request. You must include the $5 payment in the form of a personal or cashier’s check. Do not send cash.
You will receive a replacement card by mail within 7-10 days. We are not able to issue a temporary card in the interim.
Be sure to take good care of your RTC Discount ID Card! We will only replace your card up to three (3) times within a 12-month period at a cost of $5.00 for each time. You will not be issued another card within that period. However, if you feel that your disability is such that you are prone to losing personal items, you may submit a “Disability Justification” form for additional replacements. This form can be requested at the time of your 4th replacement application. Your doctor must complete this form and mail it directly to the Central Processor.
You will also be charged the $5 replacement fee if the card is damaged due to poor care.
Have more questions? View our RTC FAQs
RTC Forms
Lost / Replacement Card Application
Contact us if you would like us to mail you any of the listed forms.
More information on this regional program can be found at 511.org.