Blind Access CharlieCard
Starting October 1, 2024, the MBTA will no longer provide personalized Blind Access CharlieCards with images, names, and expiration dates. Riders who apply for a new or replacement card will receive a standard Reduced Fare CharlieCard. Riders with personalized Blind Access CharlieCards can continue to use them until they expire.
People who are legally blind, as well as an accompanying guide, can ride most MBTA services for free with a Blind Access CharlieCard. Service animals are always allowed on the MBTA. These cards are valid for five years.
Blind Access Eligibility
People with a Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) ID or Certificate of Blindness, or out-of-state blindness certification, are eligible for a Blind Access CharlieCard.
If you don't have an MCB ID, Certificate of Blindness, or out-of-state blindness certification, but are legally blind or have low vision, you may be eligible for a Transportation Access Pass (TAP) CharlieCard.
Apply Online
Eligible riders can now apply for a new, renewal, or replacement Blind Access CharlieCard online.
You can also replace a lost, stolen, or expired Blind Access CharlieCard, by contacting Customer Support at 617-222-3200.
Get a Blind Access CharlieCard
You can apply for a new, renewal, or replacement Blind Access CharlieCard online or at the Charlie Service Center.
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed within six to eight weeks. We will contact you if we are unable to approve your application.
Note: If you are renewing or replacing your Blind Access CharlieCard, you do not need to submit documentation of proof of blindness. Instead, you may provide a government-issued ID, including a Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) ID.
Caring for Your Blind Access CharlieCard
All Blind Access CharlieCards come with an embedded microchip. To keep yours working properly, handle it with care. To prevent damage to the card:
- Do not punch holes in the card
- Do not bend or twist your card
- Do not insert it into any equipment. CharlieCards are meant to be tapped at fare gates, boxes and vending machines.
Blind Access CharlieCards will expire on the date printed on the card. In the event of loss, theft, damage or renewal of your card, you can call 617-222-3200 to report it.
If you are given a temporary card, the renewal process should begin three months prior to the expiration date printed on the card.
Note: Reduced fare CharlieCards are not transferable and subject to applicable reduced fare regulations and conditions of use. Any violation of the rules will result in immediate confiscation.
Help Someone Apply Online
Individuals and organizations—such as the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind—can download our guide to learn how to help people apply for a new, renewal, or replacement Blind Access CharlieCard online.
Out-of-State Visitors
If you're visiting from out of state and can provide the appropriate documentation, we will give you a temporary MBTA pass valid for seven days of travel on the subway, bus, Commuter Rail, or ferry.
Within seven to ten days of your application, you will also receive a permanent Blind Access Card valid for future visits to the Greater Boston area.
Accessibility on the MBTA
The MBTA is dedicated to the work we're doing to make each mode of transit accessible to everyone.
The RIDE
The RIDE is a paratransit service for people who are unable to use the MBTA’s other modes some or all of the time.
Apply Online
Eligible riders can now apply for a new, renewal, or replacement Blind Access CharlieCard online.
You can also replace a lost, stolen, or expired Blind Access CharlieCard, by contacting Customer Support at 617-222-3200.
Accessibility on the MBTA
The MBTA is dedicated to the work we're doing to make each mode of transit accessible to everyone.
The RIDE
The RIDE is a paratransit service for people who are unable to use the MBTA’s other modes some or all of the time.