Note: Children five and under ride MTS and NCTD free at all times and do not need a PRONTO card or app account, nor do they need to provide proof of their age.

On a smartphone:

Download the PRONTO - San Diego app and sign up for an account to get a virtual PRONTO pass (available on Android and Apple devices).

Without a smartphone:

• Check with your school’s front office to find out if they have youth transit passes.
• If they do not, buy an Adult PRONTO card for $2.
• Then, register your card by creating a PRONTO account online.

Online:

• Log into your PRONTO account and click “Apply for Youth, Senior, Disabled Pass” in the options on the left. Scroll down the page and through the “Terms of Use,” then hit “I agree.”
• Select “I have a PRONTO card.” Select your card from the dropdown, and pick “Youth” under “reduced fare type.” Type in your name and birthdate.
• Type in your email address (or the email of a trusted adult who’s with you). Check that email account for a code. Return to the form, and enter the code.
• Upload a picture or scanned copy of one of the following: birth certificate, photo ID with birthdate (e.g., a passport or driver’s license), school ID, or screenshot of the platform you use to upload homework (including your name and school).
• Upload a profile picture or take a live selfie (make sure you show your face) and submit it.
• You will either get approved automatically or you may have to wait for a staff person at MTS to look at your application (this could take 2-10 days).
• Log in to your account to confirm your account has been updated. Your virtual purple PRONTO card will say “Youth” at the top.  

In person:

Bring proof of your age (see fourth bullet above) to an MTS or NCTD customer service center to get your youth pass application approved on the same day.

Use the PRONTO app, Google Maps, or the OneBusAway app to find your closest transit stop, when transit is coming next, and what routes you can take.

• Try to arrive at the transit station/stop a few minutes before the time on the schedule.
• Scan your app or tap your card every time you ride, including when you transfer to a different bus, trolley, or train.