Veterans and active-duty service members can ride every Metro bus and Access paratransit vehicle for free on Nov. 11, Veterans Day.

The offer covers all fixed-route buses and Access paratransit services, according to a Metro announcement published Oct. 28. National Guard and Reserve members qualify, too. The Metro Fare Deal Office at 7000 Montgomery Road in Silverton, served by Route 4 Kenwood or Blue Ash, handles enrollment for the agency's year-round veterans discount.

Buses run on a regular weekday schedule.

What to bring

Riders need to show proof of service when boarding. Metro accepts four forms of identification:

  • A U.S. Department of Defense-issued military ID card
  • A Veterans Affairs ID card
  • A state-issued driver's license with a veteran designation
  • A Metro Veterans Program (MVP) card

"We're grateful to the men and women whose service has helped protect our country and our communities," said Brandy Jones, Metro's chief communications and marketing officer.

Year-round half-price fares

Metro's Veterans Program, known as MVP, gives approved veterans and active-duty personnel half-price fares on all rides year-round.

Through a partnership between Metro and the Hamilton County Veterans Service Commission, MVP cardholders also get free transportation to VA medical appointments on all fixed-route buses, according to Metro.

An optional monthly unlimited-ride sticker costs $44 as of July 2025, according to Metro's MVP program page.

How to get an MVP card

Veterans can call 513-632-7540 to request an application. Once completed, applicants bring a state-issued photo ID showing date of birth and proof of veteran or active-duty status to the Fare Deal Office. The office is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed from noon to 1 p.m.

Applicants who present a federally issued ID showing veteran or active-duty status can receive their card the same day. Those who supply a DD Form 214 will have the card mailed within 21 days. The card is good for five years.

Veterans who already hold a Fare Deal card do not need to apply separately.

Upcoming

The Hamilton County Veterans Service Commission is hosting a Financial Assistance Lunch and Learn on Friday, Oct. 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1701 Patricia McCollum Way in Bond Hill, according to the commission. The event includes a free lunch and free parking.