University of California Transportation Center

“Unlimited Access” is the name that several universities have given to programs where their student identification cards serve as transit passes. University transit pass programs increase mobility and reduce vehicle trips. They increase mobility by giving students free access to all public transportation. They reduce vehicle trips by shifting some travelers from cars to public transportation. A survey of American universities revealed that the transit pass programs have many benefits but a low cost. The transit pass programs reduce the demand for parking, improve transit service, attract and retain students, aid low-income students, and increase equity. The programs’ average cost per student is $36 per year.