The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a new free‑bus‑pass program for veterans that went live on July 31. Funded by the recent legislative session, the initiative gives eligible veterans unlimited access to public‑transit routes at no cost, making it easier to get to medical appointments, jobs and everyday errands.
How to apply
Veterans must complete an online application and verify their status with a valid form of identification. Acceptable IDs include a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Health Identification Card, a Connecticut driver’s license displaying the veteran flag, or a Connecticut non‑driver ID with the veteran flag symbol.
During the application, veterans select the bus routes they need. Passes are issued for either 30 or 31 days and must be renewed each month. After a request is processed, the veteran receives a 10‑digit pass ID, which is used for future renewals.
Using the pass
When boarding, the veteran shows the active pass and one of the approved IDs to the bus operator. This dual‑verification step helps prevent fraud, as the passes themselves do not carry a photo.
Because passes expire monthly, the DVA advises veterans to request a new pass well before the current one ends. Passes are mailed to the address on file, so a stable mailing address is required.
If you lack a valid ID or permanent address
Veterans without a suitable ID can obtain a health identification card through the VA by calling 1‑877‑222‑8387. Alternatively, they can use the DVA website to download forms for a Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles ID that includes the veteran flag. Once the VA verifies eligibility, a confirmation letter is mailed to the veteran, who can then present it to the DMV to obtain the updated ID.
Veterans who enroll in VA health care automatically receive a health identification card, which can also serve as proof of veteran status for the bus‑pass program. Enrollment can be completed by phone, mail or in person.
Selecting routes wisely
The DVA urges veterans to choose only the routes they truly need. The agency purchases passes based on actual usage, so limiting requests helps keep program costs down and ensures the funding continues to benefit as many veterans as possible.
Available routes include major urban services such as CT Transit as well as smaller regional districts, giving veterans flexibility whether they live in a city or a more rural area.
Where to get help
For questions about applying, renewing, or replacing a pass, veterans can contact the DVA’s Office of Advocacy and Assistance, visit the program’s website, or email [email protected]. The office can also assist with status inquiries and identification issues.
This program reflects Connecticut’s commitment to supporting those who have served our nation, ensuring they have reliable, cost‑free transportation to stay connected to their families, workplaces and health services.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
