Children age 12 and under can now ride public transit for free

The B.C. government launched its new ‘Get On Board’ affordable transportation program today, Sept. 1, making public transit free for children age 12 and under.

Referring to the new program as a “landmark achievement,” Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, called the move “an important part of our government’s commitment to provide safe, reliable and affordable public transit for B.C. families.”

The “Get on Board” program allows children access to public transportation province-wide, including on city buses, skytrains, the SeaBus and the West Coast Express.

The province said the program is expected to play a big role in affordability for families, as it will allow children to access the public transit system without families having to spend upwards of $40 a month in order for their children to ride.

It’s estimated that approximately 370,000 children across B.C. are eligible for the new program.

The province also anticipates the program will inspire the next generation to become more familiar with public transit and choose to access those options in the future.

While children age 12 and under can access public transit free of charge, parents and guardians remain responsible for the safety and care of their children at all times, including when they are travelling unaccompanied.