Lifeline Pass

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SFMTA.com/Lifeline
Free language assistance is available. For assistance, please call ☎ 311 (Outside SF 415.701.2311; Teletypewriter 415.701.2323). A 311 staff member can provide more information.
The SFMTA Lifeline program is moving to Clipper START.
  
- Effective May 1, 2026, new Lifeline applications will no longer be accepted.

- Apply for your Clipper START card now (processing may take up to 30 days).

- With Clipper START you will have more options to purchase a Lifeline pass and will be eligible for discounts up to $1.40 when transferring to other Bay Area transit agencies.

- Existing customers can continue to purchase monthly stickers through July 2026.

Using Your Lifeline ID Card

In order to access the Muni Metro Station faregates you must display your ID card to a Station Agent for access to the Metro system. If no agent is present, you may proceed through the faregate closest to the station agent booth – it will open automatically.

The ID card with valid monthly sticker affixed serves as proof of payment. On surface level vehicles, you may enter the back door or, when boarding the front door, display your ID card to the Operator.  Stickers are valid through the 3rd day of the following month. 

How to load a Lifeline Pass onto your Clipper START card

  • Online via your Clipper Account (recommended)
  • Through the Clipper Mobile App 
  • In person at any Clipper sales channel

Transit Citation Dismissal

If you are applying for a Clipper START card for the first time and your application is accepted, your last transit citation issued within 30 days of enrollment is eligible for dismissal. Please provide a citation or ID number from the citation when applying. Please protest your citation and submit your Clipper START approval notification. Please be sure the submitted supporting documents include your name and date of approval.

Replacements/Refunds

No refunds, exchanges or replacements are issued for monthly stickers. 

 

Lifeline Pass
$43.00