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The VTA SmartPass is an annual transit pass program designed for institutions within Santa Clara County. Unlike individual fare purchases, SmartPass offers deeply discounted, unlimited rides on all VTA local buses and light rail by leveraging group participation to reduce per-user costs. This model benefits both the organization and its members by providing program participants with a high-value benefit at a cost-effective alternative to driving and parking.
Eligibility and Pricing
SmartPass is not available for individual purchase. Institutions within Santa Clara County may participate (employers, colleges, and residential developments) in the SmartPass program. Considering your organization’s category, geographic location, and size, annual pass rates range from $20.75 to $180 per participant. This depends on the SmartPass Category, Service Level, and Annual Rate per Participant. This is a bargain compared to the standard Adult Annual Pass, which costs $990.
Coverage and Usage
SmartPass is loaded onto a Clipper card, which can be used for transit agencies across the Bay Area. This provides flexibility for users who may need to travel beyond VTA services.
The Standard SmartPass is valid on all VTA local buses and light rail services. Institutions that have partnered with VTA through the Express Bus Partnership Program can offer the Express SmartPass, which covers all VTA services, including Express buses. Without the Express SmartPass, riders can board Express buses but must pay a $2.50 surcharge using Clipper cash loaded onto their SmartPass.
Benefits of Joining
Institutions can manage the SmartPass program through the SmartPass Institutional portal, allowing coordinators to administer the program and view usage reports. This centralized management simplifies the process for organizations offering the benefit to their members. Additionally, VTA’s SmartPass program may satisfy some city or commute benefit ordinances such as Senate Bill No. 1128.
Participating in the SmartPass program can help organizations reduce their environmental impact and parking demand by encouraging the use of public transit. It also provides members with a convenient and cost-effective transportation option, saving them from the expenses and hassles of driving and parking.
How to Apply
Institutions interested in participating in the SmartPass program should complete and email the SmartPass Agreement Form to [email protected].
Limitations
The SmartPass is not valid on certain transit services, including ACE, Amtrak, BART, Caltrain, AC Transit, Highway 17 Express, Dumbarton Express, Monterey-Salinas Transit, and SamTrans. However, users can add transit passes or cash value to their Clipper card to use these other Bay Area transit agencies.
For more info. click the link: vta.org/smartpass