New to Read and Ride? We got you covered!
Read and Ride is a joint program with the Chattanooga Public Library to allow free access to public transportation!
The Read and Ride program is completely free to sign up for, and you’ll receive a physical card after you register. You can sign up HERE.
Who qualifies to sign up?
- Any student kindergarten through 12th grade in Hamilton County. You sign up through the link above which is through the library and you will be notified when to pick up your physical card. Check with your school counselor to see if your school allows card picks up there!
How do I sign up?
- You can sign up at any library location or online at https://chattlibrary.beanstack.org/reader365.
Who qualifies for free rides under the Read and Ride Program?
- K-5th grade students (ages 5-6 to 10-11) with a red sticker on their card ride for free and must be accompanied by a guardian.
- CARTA has two policies: 1) Children 5 and under ride free with a paying adult; 2) If the child is in kindergarten and has a Read and Ride pass the child and adult can both ride for free.
- 6th-12th grade students with a green sticker on their card ride for free and do not need a guardian.
How does the free ride policy work for K-5th grade students?
- One guardian (18 or older) may ride for free with a K-5th grade student.
- Any additional passengers must pay the regular fare.
- The guardian cannot be denied a ride if they have the card with a red sticker.
- If the guardian is dropping off or picking up the student, they can still ride for free on the return trip.
Can 6th-12th grade students bring a guardian for free?
- No. Students in 6th-12th grade (green sticker) ride for free, but any accompanying adult must pay the regular fare.
What should I do if a student or guardian presents a card with a red or green sticker?
- If the card has a red sticker, the student and one guardian ride for free.
- If the card has a green sticker, only the student rides for free. The guardian must pay the fare.