U-Pass® Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible to participate in the U-Pass Program?
- How much does the U-Pass cost?
- Can the fees for U-Pass be paid with financial aid?
- Can my family use my U-Pass?
- Who can I call for U-Pass Information?
- What if I lose my U-Pass?
- Can I transfer funds from my SmarTrip® card to my U-Pass?
- Will students with disabilities who already have discounted fares have to pay for U-Pass?
- Will online students who don't live in the Washington, D.C. region have to pay for a U-Pass?
- I commute to school by car-does the U-Pass have any benefits for me?
Who is eligible to participate in the U-Pass Program?
Full-time students at accredited post-secondary, degree granting schools within Metro's service area that enter into an agreement with Metro are eligible.
How much does the U-Pass cost?
For the equivalent of $1 a day (included in the cost of attendance), you have unlimited rides on Metrorail and Metrobus throughout the semester.
Can the fees for U-Pass be paid with financial aid?
Yes. Because this is a mandatory student fee, it is considered part of the cost of attendance and included in overall cost calculations for financial aid.
Can my family use my U-Pass?
The U-Pass cannot be used by anyone other than the student to whom the card is issued, is non-transferable and may be confiscated by Metro if misused. Metro reserves the right to request a school ID to verify the card holder.
Who can I call for U-Pass Information?
If you can't find what you're looking for on this website, call your school's Office of Transportation.
What if I lose my U-Pass?
Report a lost or stolen card to your school immediately. A $20 replacement fee will be charged and only one replacement card will be issued per semester.
Can I transfer funds from my SmarTrip® card to my U-Pass?
At this time you may not combine SmartTrip® funds with your U-Pass.
Will students with disabilities who already have discounted fares have to pay for U-Pass?
Students with disabilities who receive free MetroAccess will not have to pay for this program.
Will online students who don't live in the Washington, D.C. region have to pay for a U-Pass?
Online students are not included in the U-Pass program regardless of their location. Online programs have separate fees and semester timelines that do not make them compatible with this program.
I commute to school by car-does the U-Pass have any benefits for me?
The U-Pass gives you an opportunity to get out of your car and reduce transportation costs, increase eco-mobility options, reduce congestion and emissions, avoid traffic congestion, and save on parking, gas and upkeep. We hope the program will encourage students who drive to change to Metro. Also, we know that many students use Uber and they can choose the pass as a less costly alternative.