Public Transport
Basics on Public Transport
The easiest option for paying for public transit is to get an Orca Card. An Orca Card is a reusable card that you load with money and then use to ride most forms of public transit in the area. More information is here: https://www.myorca.com
Resources
- This website has instructions on how to get on a bus and open a card: https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/getting-around/transit
- This app is helpful for navigating public transport: https://onebusaway.org
Maps
- Kent Map
- Downtown Seattle
- Sea-Tac
- Light Rail map
- If you’re outside of the Seattle area, this map will show you which transit authority manages public transportation in your region: http://tinyurl.com/mapwashington
Reduced-Fare Transit Passes
Reduced-fare Orca cards are available for seniors (over 65), youth (6-18) people with disabilities, low-income individuals, and people who qualify for another state benefit (more information below).
- To apply for reduced-fare Orca cards, go here: https://reducedfare.kingcounty.gov/en-US
- If you already are qualified for one of the following state benefits, then you can apply for a subsidized annual pass here: https://kingcounty.gov/depts/transportation/metro/fares-orca/subsidized-annual-pass.aspx
Residents of King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties who are at or below 80% of the federal poverty level and are enrolled in one of six state benefit programs can obtain a subsidized annual pass valid for travel on King County Metro and Sound Transit services. Eligible customers can receive a subsidized annual pass at DSHS, Public Health, and Catholic Community Services across King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties.
Currently, the six state benefit programs are:
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)/State Family Assistance (SFA)
- Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)
- Aged, Blind, or Disabled Cash Assistance (ABD)
- Pregnant Women Assistance (PWA)
Not to be confused with WIC or Pregnancy Medical - Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Not to be confused with Social Security Income or SSDI - Housing & Essential Needs (HEN)
Not to be confused with housing assistance such as HUD