At a Glance
- For use only by the student to which the card is issued.
- Valid for travel to and from school only.
- Cards are valid for up to eight trips per school day, between 5:30 am and 8 pm.
- May be used for all SEPTA transit modes, including Regional Rail.
- Cards are tapped at a farebox or turnstile just like regular Key cards.
- Cards may be used throughout the school year.
For Students in Kindergarten-12th Grade
SEPTA works with the various Southeastern Pennsylvania school districts to help eligible students get transportation. Student fares are available to all school districts within the SEPTA service area.
The school district in which a student resides is responsible for the student’s transportation to and from school, within the guidelines set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Students in grades 7 through 12 who live 1.5 miles or farther from school are generally eligible for free Student Fare Cards through their school.
If students are not covered by their school district for a Student Fare Card, then that school may request to enter into an agreement with SEPTA to purchase Student Fare Cards. For more information, email Debbie Dumas at ddumas@septa.org.
Service for the Academic Year
The information is for the academic year only and does not apply to students attending summer programs.
The school district, not SEPTA directly, distributes the SEPTA Key Student Fare Cards during the first few days of school. School administrators will assign the cards to eligible students and transmit the card numbers to activate them.
Students cannot obtain the card directly from SEPTA.
Travel Rights
The cards are good for up to eight trips per school day, between 5:30 am and 8 pm and includes taps for transfers.
School Districts determine the travel rights for each card, defining the number of daily trips.
Contact
Your school administrator will provide additional information as needed.
Lost or Stolen Cards
If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to your school administrator. You will receive a replacement card.
General Etiquette
When it comes to riding SEPTA, practicing proper etiquette ensures a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Correct fares are required for transportation. Have your Student Fare card ready to help speed boarding.
- When standing on a vehicle, especially near doors, please move to allow other riders to board or exit. On subway or elevated trains, remember to “step out, step in” to allow others easy access to the train.
- Don’t share your music. Use earbuds or headphones.
- Smoking is not permitted by law in stations, on platforms, in transit shelters or on any transit vehicle. This includes vaping.
- Keep phone calls short. Talk quietly. Don’t use the speaker.
For more information on etiquette onboard SEPTA vehicles, review the Passenger Etiquette Guidelines.
Code of Conduct
Students are expected to follow SEPTA’s Code of Conduct while riding.
- No littering.
- Do not occupy multiple seats.
- Do not block doors, hallways, or stairwells.
The full Code of Conduct provides further guidance.
Tapping your student card matters. Tapping in every time you ride tells SEPTA which routes are most popular and helps make your ride, station, and stops better.
SEPTA Key is a reloadable, contactless chip card with a host of options for seamless travel.
Ways To Pay
We offer several ways to pay based on your needs:
Pass Programs
The better value for customers depends on their needs.
FAQ
Our Customer Service Center answers common questions about fares, passes, rider discounts, routes, services, advisories, and more.