Free Fare Days Program

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the program begin and how long does it last?

The Free Fare Days Promotional Program starts Sept. 22, 2023, and will last through June 2024.

The Free Fare Days Program will allow riders to use any bus service for free within Ventura County on the following days only:

• Car Free Day (September 22)
• California Clean Air Day (October 4)
• Veterans Day* (November 10) – Veterans and active-duty U.S military members only (applicable IDs listed below)
• Transit Equity Day* (February 5)
• Earth Day (April 22)
• Bike to Work Day (May 17) – For those biking only
• Dump the Pump (June 17)

*Due to these holidays falling on a weekend, they will be recognized on the observed holiday dates

Who is eligible for the Free Fare Days Promotional Program?

All riders are eligible for free fares with the exception of the following days:

• Veterans Day (November 11) – Veterans and active-duty U.S. military members
• Bike to Work Day (May 17) – For those biking only

*Please contact the transit operator for their bicycle policies.

**Veterans Day free rides are for eligible veterans and active-duty members of the U.S. military. Valid ID forms include U.S. military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), Veterans Affairs (VA) card, veteran designation on a California driver’s license, DD214, and Retired Military ID. Veterans without proper ID are asked to share their branch, dates and location of service with the bus driver.

Can I use any bus in Ventura County?

Yes, all following operators are participating:

• Camarillo Area Transit
• Gold Coast Transit District
• Kanan Shuttle
• Moorpark City Transit
• Ojai Trolley
• Simi Valley Transit
• Thousand Oaks Transit
• Valley Express
• VCTC Intercity Transit Service

How will the driver know to let me on the bus for free?

Drivers will let anyone ride for free with the exceptions noted for Veterans Day and Bike to Work Day (see information above).

I’m traveling to a VCTC Zone 2 destination. Do I have to pay an additional fare?

No, you do not.

Can I ride Metrolink or Amtrak for free?

The Free Fare Days Promotional Program only lets you ride public buses in Ventura County on select days identified above. Rail operators may occasionally offer free riders. Please contact Metrolink or Amtrak for more information.

Can paratransit users ride dial-a-ride services for free?

No, other than Valley Express, Moorpark City Transit (MCT) On Demand, Camarillo Area Transit (CAT) dial-a-ride services, passengers will have to pay the full fare.

What if I already bought a pass? Can I get a refund?

Unfortunately, no you cannot.

Any questions? Please call 1-800-438-1112 or submit comments through www.goventura.org.

Please note: Riders are expected to follow the rules and codes of conduct established by each operator. Violations of the rules may result in removal from the bus and suspension of riding privileges.