Hello and welcome
The CTA provides public transit service throughout Chicago and many neighboring communities. We offer both subway/elevated rapid transit train service (the ‘L’ system) and bus service.
We connect with other transit providers like Metra, Pace, Amtrak, and the South Shore Line. We also serve both of Chicago's major airports.
Hours of service
Most of our train routes and many bus routes operate from the early morning until the late evening.
Red Line and Blue Line train service operates 24 hours per day, every day. Several bus routes, called Night Owl routes, also run 24 hours per day.
Hours of service vary, so be sure to check schedules or use a trip planner before you go.
Fares
CTA is the best value for getting around Chicago, and each fare includes two free transfers within two hours.
If you ride a lot, unlimited-ride passes provide an even better value.
Free or reduced fare programs are available for children, seniors, Medicare recipients, people with disabilities and other qualifying groups.
Fare prices
Plan your trip
Quick trip planner
Quick trip planner
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Take your trip
Ride the bus
To ride the bus, wait at the bus stop until a bus arrives with your route number on the front. You can see when your bus will arrive with Bus Tracker. Pay your fare by tapping your bank card with a contactless 
symbol on it; your mobile device with Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay; or your Ventra card. You can also use cash.
Details and tips for riding the bus
Ride the train
To ride the train, go to the station and tap your bank card with a contactless symbol or your mobile device at the gate. Cash is not accepted, but you can use cash at a station vending machine to buy a fare card. You can see when your train will arrive with Train Tracker.
Details and tips for riding the train
Alerts
If there are detours or delays, we will post information about it on the alerts section of this website. Alerts also show up in map apps—usually there is a or button to view them. You can subscribe to email or text message alerts about your favorite routes.
Traveling with…
Children
Children are eligible for either a free or a reduced fare, depending on their age.
You can bring your stroller, but it’s best to fold it up when you board. Strollers cannot go on escalators—please use an elevator or ramp.
How to ride with children
A bike
Every bus has a bike rack on the front of it. Personal bikes are allowed, but Divvy and bikeshare bikes are not. The bike racks are sturdy, but they might not accommodate e-bikes with large batteries or other bikes that are very heavy.
Personal bikes are allowed on trains except during weekday rush hours.
How to bring your bike
An animal
Small pets are allowed as long as they remain in a closed protective carrier that can fit under a seat. Otherwise, only service animals are allowed.
Polices & practices