Youth living in the municipality of Victoria are officially able to apply for a free BC Transit Youth U-PASS, valid from Feb. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021.
In a press release issued by the City of Victoria, it outlines that youth between the ages of 6 and 18 will be eligible to apply for a free pass.
“I am excited to see the Youth U-PASS program rollout for next year,” said Mayor Lisa Helps. “This annual pass makes it easier for youth and ensures they have access to free transit services for the whole year. I believe giving youth access to free transit is fundamentally important and will create lifelong transit users, keeping more cars off the roads and reducing emissions in the long term.”
The City notes that children under 6 already ride for free on the Victoria Regional Transit System.
Applications are available online and, once completed, the annual pass card with picture identification will be sent in the mail.
The pass is valid for all of the Victoria Regional Transit System as well.
“This municipal program is the first of its kind in the province, with a goal to encourage low-carbon, affordable transportation while creating lifelong transit riders that will lead to fewer vehicles and less traffic congestion,” said the City in a statement.
According to the City of Victoria, youth, and their parents or guardians will be required to provide documentation as part of the application to confirm their eligibility to participate in the City of Victoria’s free Youth U-PASS program.
Youth that cannot apply online, can apply in-person at the City’s Public Service Centre.
The City is also suggesting people with questions about the program to reach out to the City’s Public Service Team by emailing [email protected] or by calling 250-385-5711.
To apply for the youth U-PASS online, visit: upass.victoria.ca
A list of approved documents and more information can be found at: victoria.ca/transit
Graham Cox
