Transportation
Reduced-fare transit, bike share discounts, and e-bike rebates for low-income and assistance-receiving residents across the Front Range.
RTD LiVE Program (Denver Metro)
The LiVE (Low-income Verified Eligibility) program provides 50% off all RTD fares across the entire service area.
- Discount: 50% off all RTD buses, light rail, and commuter rail (including airport trips)
- Qualifies: Adults age 20+ with gross household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level
- Residency: You do not need to live within the RTD district or provide a Social Security number
- Enrollment: Over 18,000 active participants as of 2025
- Link: rtd-denver.com/fares-passes/pass-programs/live
- Fact Sheet (PDF): LiVE Factsheet
How to Apply for LiVE — Step by Step
- Go to Colorado PEAK: Visit colorado.gov/PEAK and click "Apply for Benefits"
- Choose your method: If applying for LiVE only, you can apply as a guest (no PEAK account needed). Create an account if you want to apply for multiple programs or save your progress.
- Complete the application: Enter your household information as prompted. If you have an SSN, entering it may speed up processing — but it is not required.
- Upload a photo: Each applicant needs a color photo taken above the shoulder with a neutral background and full uncovered face. This photo will appear on your LiVE eligibility card.
- Upload income documents: If you are already enrolled in Medicaid, SNAP, or Colorado Works, you may not need income documents — your application can be approved instantly. Otherwise, upload gross income verification (pay stubs, tax return, etc.).
- Receive your card: Your LiVE eligibility card arrives by mail. Show it when riding RTD for 50% off.
- Alternative: Call Denver Human Services at 720-944-4346 for phone-based application help
RTD Transit Assistance Grant (TAG) Program
A stopgap program providing immediate fare relief while LiVE applications are processed.
- Funded: Up to $1 million set aside for 2026
- Purpose: Bridges the gap while eligible customers sign up for LiVE
- Link: rtd-denver.com/transit-assistance-grant-program
Other RTD Discounted Fares
RTD also offers reduced fares for seniors (65+), persons with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders.
Denver E-Bike Rebate Program
A city rebate program that makes e-bikes affordable for income-qualified Denver residents.
- Rebate: $450 city rebate + $225 state tax credit = up to $675 total savings
- Qualifies: Household income at or below 80% AMI, or participation in SNAP, Medicaid, LEAP, or other qualifying assistance programs
- How to apply:
- Create an account at denverrebate.azurewebsites.net
- Subscribe to the city newsletter for voucher release dates
- Upload proof of residency and income documentation
- Wait up to 10 business days for approval
- Redeem voucher at a participating Denver bike shop
- Note: Vouchers are first-come, first-served on release days
- Link: denvergov.org — E-Bike Rebates
Colorado State E-Bike Tax Credit
Available statewide in addition to the Denver city rebate.
Denver Micromobility (Scooters & Bike Share)
Denver is transitioning its shared bike and scooter program to a new operator (Veo) in 2026, replacing the previous Lime and Bird contracts.
- Equity programs: Low-income and reduced-fare programs will continue under the new operator
- Transition: People enrolled in Lime/Bird equity programs will be able to transfer to Veo
- Note: Check with Denver DOTI for the latest information on enrollment in 2026
- Link: denvergov.org — Micromobility Program
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