Alternatives to Yellow Bus Transportation Link to this section
There are several transportation options available for youth and families in San Francisco. Below are resources for public transportation, biking, and walking.
Free Muni for Youth
The Free Muni for Youth Program provides free Muni service for San Francisco youth ages 5–18, regardless of household income. No application or proof of payment is required, and youth do not need to use a Clipper card when riding Muni buses, trains, or historic streetcars.
Youth ages 16 and older are encouraged to carry a student ID or other form of identification for age verification.
Cable cars: A Clipper card is required to receive the free youth fare on cable cars. Youth who regularly use cable cars can obtain a free cable car pass through SFMTA.
SFUSD students ages 19–22: Muni fares for regular service are also waived for students enrolled in SFUSD English Learner and Special Education Services programs through age 22.
For current information about Free Muni for Youth, school transportation resources, Muni routes serving schools, and trip planning, visit:
Muni Routes to City Schools and Student Transportation Information
Muni routes serving city schools
Did you know most schools are within a five-minute walk of a Muni stop?
It's easy to ride transit to or from school. Every elementary, middle, and high school in the San Francisco Unified School District is served by at least one Muni route. There's even a special "School Trippers" service, extra afternoon Muni buses on existing lines that begin their route at a school site, pick up students at the end of the school day, then continue along the route as normal. They provide capacity for student-serving routes, leading to a less crowded trip for everyone.
ADA Paratransit Transportation Option Link to this section
Students and families with disabilities may also want to explore SF Paratransit, an SFMTA transportation program for people who are unable to independently use or access regular public transportation because of a disability or disabling health condition. Eligibility is determined by SF Paratransit in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is separate from SFUSD transportation eligibility and services.
Families interested in this option can learn more about eligibility and download an application in multiple languages through SFMTA:
Apply for ADA Paratransit Service
Other Alternatives
This page was last updated on September 16, 2026