Arlington bus system will provide free transportation for children in middle and high schools

When the new school year begins on Monday, children in middle and high schools in Arlington, will be eligible for free rides on the bus system provided by the county.

In order for students to take advantage of the perk, they must have an iRide SmarTrip card. When school starts, those who currently own an iRide card will be able to start making use of the benefit immediately.

Students may obtain their free iRide card on a first-come, first-serve basis by contacting their School Transportation Coordinator or by going to any one of Arlington’s three commuter shops with their student ID and requesting it there. There are currently only a limited number of iRide cards available. However, a restock is expected for the month of October.

There are no restrictions imposed on how the iRide cards may be used in any way. In the past, children were only allowed to ride the school bus to and from school.