For the sixth consecutive year, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA) will honor the service of all U.S. military veterans, active-duty military, and members of the National Guard and Reserves by giving them free transit rides across all modes on Monday, Nov. 11.
“Our veterans and military personnel go above and beyond the call of duty every day, and we are proud to offer a day of free transit as a sign of gratitude for their service,” said Holly Arnold, Maryland Transit Administrator. “The free rides are just a small token of thanks for their dedication and sacrifice.”
Free transit will be available on Maryland Transit Administration Local Bus, Metro Subway, Light Rail, MARC Train, Commuter Bus and Mobility. Eligible riders need to present one of three IDs:
- U.S. Department of Defense issued ID (Armed Forces/Uniformed Services/Military Retiree);
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs issued ID; or
- Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Veteran designation on a driver’s license or state ID.
The state of Maryland is home to around 360,000 veterans, and another 100,000 active-duty service members, Reservists, National Guard, and dependents. Most are between the ages of 35-54, and 47,000 are women. Prince George’s County and Anne Arundel County have the largest overall veteran populations.
While military personnel may ride for free on Veterans Day, other customers may use the CharmPass mobile ticketing app for tickets. Schedule information and trip-planning assistance is available at MTA’s website.
The free Transit app can also help riders navigate the system. It offers real-time schedules, predicted arrival times and step-by step navigation for all fixed-route service including Local Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train and Commuter Bus. Riders who use the app also receive alerts on any service disruptions.
In addition to offering free rides to military personnel and veterans, MTA is participating in the Baltimore City Veterans Day Parade, which starts at 12 pm on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024. The parade begins at the Washington Monument at Charles and Centre streets. Colonel Louis Waters, Jr. of the Maryland Army National Guard is the grand marshal of this year’s parade.
