The days are getting longer, and the weather is warming up! Don’t miss your chance to travel around Beaver County and even into Pittsburgh all Summer long! The Beaver County Transit Authority Student Pass application is open now online and in-person at the Rochester Transportation Center.

Overview

The Beaver County Transit Authority is announcing the return of the BCTA Student Pass for the 2025-2026 year. This pass provides free and reduced transit for those ages 6-21 in Beaver County. In an adjustment to the free Summer Youth Pass, a discounted fare of $1.00 has now been included for the remainder of the year.

In addition to the reduced fare, previous applicants will no longer be required to reapply each year. Their application will be automatically processed and mailed to the address listed on their application. These riders can change their address if needed by contacting customerservice@bcta.com.

All 2024 Summer Passes will remain in effect until June 1, 2025. After this date, riders must present their new pass or pay pull fare when boarding the vehicle. New applications for the 2025-2026 Student Pass will be accepted on a continuing basis throughout the year, beginning on May 1, 2025.

New applicants can submit their applications online here or in person at the Rochester Transportation Center.

How Does it Work?

• The pass is valid from June 1, 2025 through May 31, 2026
• Youth ages 6-21 are eligible
• Rides will be free of charge from June 1 through August 31
• Rides will be $1.00 from September 1 to May 31
• Since it is impossible for our drivers to determine the exact age of an older child or adolescent, BCTA assumes that the parent or guardian is making a responsible choice as to whether their child is mature enough to ride the buses unattended
• This pass can only be used on BCTA Fixed Route buses. It cannot be accepted for BCTA Shared or Connect trips.

How Do I Apply?

• Online applications are linked on our website and social media accounts. Riders can also utilize the QR code on the Student Pass flyer to find the form.
• Both the parent/legal guardian and the applicant must e-sign the release form on the application if the applicant is under the age of 18.
• Online applicants can submit their proof of age online or elect to bring it to the Rochester Transportation Center
• If proof of age is submitted online, the pass can be delivered to the address listed on the application.
• If proof of age is not submitted online, the pass must be picked up from the Rochester Transportation Center with proof of age

Background

The BCTA Student Pass (formerly Summer Pass) was introduced in 2023, providing free fares for youth ages 6-21. In its first year, over 300 students took almost 5,000 rides. Due to the continuing popularity, the program was renewed in 2024 with the addition of a reduced fare for non-summer months. With this addition, more than 380 students utilized the pass, taking almost 10,000 rides from June 1, 2024 through March 31, 2025.