Your site is required to stay up-to-date with NITA (formerly RTA) processes, procedures, and programs. We are streamlining information by offering it in multiple formats - Registration Site Hub, emails, webinars, and in-person training, and housing it in one location. We recommend checking back here periodically to review the latest information and training.

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5/2026: RAP and TAP Increase to 40 Rides

The current monthly cap of subsidized Rideshare Access Program (RAP) and Taxi Access Program (TAP) trips is 30 rides per month. Starting on May 1, 2026, RAP or TAP riders can apply for an additional 10 rides per month, increasing the monthly cap to 40 rides per month.  Customers will need to apply online at fares.rtachicago.org. If a customer is unable to apply online, they can call NITA Customer Service at (312) 913-3110 to get assistance. Customers will need to be already certified for ADA paratransit and enrolled in RAP or TAP to be eligible for this increase.  For more information, visit NITA’s website at https://nita.illinois.gov/riders/accessible-transit#Rideshare-Access-Program-(RAP)-and-Taxi-Access-Program-(TAP) or call (312) 913-3110. Additional frequently asked questions (FAQ) can be found in the Registration Site Hub FAQ tab.

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3/2026: Welcome to the New Registration Site Hub

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new Registration Site Hub, designed to make it easier for you to stay informed and access important resources. 

The hub will serve as your go-to destination for: 

• Updates 

• Resources 

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Our goal is to streamline communication and ensure everyone has quick access to the information they need.  

How to Get Started: 

1. Visit the hub at nita.illinois.gov/regsitehub – this site is only for our registration site affiliates. Although it is public, we ask that you do not share this website outside of your organization’s staff.  

2. Explore the sections and familiarize yourself with the layout. 

3. Share your feedback—we’d love to hear your thoughts! 

4. Check back periodically for updates and new information. 

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12/2025: Fare Program Online Portal 2.0 Launched

As you may have seen, the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) has recently launched the Online Fare Portal 2.0. This portal includes exciting changes to the online fare portal, including the ability to switch a customer from the Reduced Fare to the Ride Free program, check the status of an order, and update customer information. The portal uses the same URL as before: fares.nita.illinois.gov.

As part of the new portal, we are asking that you enter your center code with each online fare application.

Additionally, we are hosting open virtual office hours over the next few days if staff have any questions about how to use the fare portal. These virtual office hours can be joined via Zoom link. More details shared by assigned RTA Coordinator. 

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10/2025: Ride Fixed Route for ADA Paratransit Riders

As of October 1, 2025, customers who have an ADA Paratransit permit will now be able to ride for free on CTA, Pace, and Metra fixed route public transit. Their card will act as a Ride Free card and can be tapped on CTA and Pace, and will be used as a flash pass on Metra.

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2/2025: Access Pilot Program Extended to 1/31/2026

The RTA is partnering with Metra and Cook County to offer another discounted fare program, called the Access Pilot Program.  The Access Pilot Program offers reduced fare on Metra for individuals receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). A person is eligible if they receive SNAP and live within the RTA region (Will, Cook, DuPage, McHenry, Kane, and Lake counties). Additionally, they must have a valid IL State ID, IL Driver’s License, or Chicago CityKey card. If a person has a Ride Free, Reduced Fare, or ADA Paratransit card, they are not eligible for the Access Pilot Program because they already receive a discounted fare. Individuals can apply for this pilot program starting 1/16/2024. The pilot program begins on 2/1/2024 and will run through 1/31/2026. *Please note the Access Pilot Program has been extended to 12/31/2026. 

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1/2024: Discontinuation of Replacement Fees

The RTA is excited to announce that we will no longer be requiring replacement fees for lost, stolen or damaged RTA Fare Program Cards as of January 1, 2024. Any customer who requires a replacement card should complete the application through the Fare Programs Online Portal (https://fares.rtachicago.org/ ) or the attached replacement application and is no longer asked to pay the $5 or $10 fees. Any payment received as of 1/2/2024 will be returned to the customer. Paper applications are being printed, and we will get these to your sites within the coming weeks. The RTA made this decision to make our programs more equitable and accessible to people who are experiencing lower incomes.

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8/2023: Release of Information

Customers must sign a release of information to have someone inquire on their behalf regarding their RTA application and/or fare card, including ADA Paratransit. If the customer is present in person or over the phone when staff is calling on their behalf, verbal consent is still an option for that particular inquiry. We encourage completing the release of information with every new applicant or customer you assist so that in the future, they do not have to be physically present for you to inquire on their behalf.

The release of information must be sent to your RTA contact via encrypted email or in person, if applicable. If you do not have an option to encrypt email, we can initiate an encrypted email for you to reply to. The release of information is available in English and Spanish. 

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2/2023: Registration Site Center Code Requirement

Starting Friday, February 10, 2023, registration sites must write their registration site center code on their return brown envelope before mailing. This will help RTA identify where the application (new, renewal, or replacement) is coming from. If you do not know your center code, reach out to your RTA Coordinator.