Preparing Students for Success
The OCTA Youth Ride Free Program provides youth ages 6 to 18 with free travel on OC Bus fixed-route service to school, work or fun on safe, clean and reliable buses.

Preparing Students for Success
The OCTA Youth Ride Free Program provides youth ages 6 to 18 with free travel on OC Bus fixed-route service to school, work or fun on safe, clean and reliable buses.
How It Works
Share the Program
Help families learn about the Youth Ride Free program by directing them to OCTA’s online application or the OCTA Store.
Complete Enrollment
Create or sign into a Wave account and complete the Youth Ride Free reduced fare application.
To apply, families will need:
- Your Wave card number
- A document showing your name and birthdate, grade or school year, such as a Student ID card
- A recent photo of yourself
- A signed parental consent form
Ride Free
Once approved, the student’s Wave account will automatically receive Youth Ride Free benefits.
Students can begin riding OC Bus for free using their Wave card.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Wave cards are issued directly through the Youth Ride Free application process or are available through the OCTA Store.
No. Students complete the application directly with OCTA online at octa.net/Youth or at the OCTA Store. Schools do not collect forms or distribute Wave cards.
Students can complete the Youth Ride Free reduced fare application online at octa.net/Youth or visit the OCTA Store for assistance.
Students can order a replacement Wave card through their Wave account or visit the OCTA Store for assistance.
Questions? Contact Us
We’re happy to help answer questions about the Youth Ride Free Program.
Grant Funds Offer Many Benefits
The program is grant-funded by the California Department of Transportation and the California Air Resources Board through California Climate Investments which help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen the economy, and improve public health and the environment.