Image via City of Saint John

Starting November 1, 2026, Saint John Transit requires users of the SJTRides app to validate their eligibility in person if they want to purchase student or senior fares. This change ensures riders purchase the correct fare type and maintains fairness for all transit users.

To access these discounted options, you must first download the free SJTRides app and create an account. Once you complete that step, you need to visit a validation session or the Saint John Transit Headquarters to present valid identification.

How Validation Works for Students and Seniors

Students must show a valid student ID from a designated educational institution. This validation requires an annual renewal at the start of each school year to keep the discount active.

Seniors aged 65 and older must provide government issued identification showing their date of birth. Senior validation is a one time process and does not require renewal.

If you currently purchase student or senior fares through the app, you need to validate your eligibility before the November 1 deadline. After this date, the app restricts access to these discounts until you verify your ID.

Upcoming Validation Sessions

Saint John Transit is hosting several validation sessions at local schools and community spaces to make this process easier for you.

October 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the City of Saint John Customer Service Centre in City Hall.

October 8 and October 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at NBCC on Grandview Avenue in the Building A Lobby.

October 15 and October 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Lancaster Mall FLEX Bus Stop.

October 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Nic Nicolle Community Centre on Durham Street.

If you miss these sessions, you can validate your ID year round at the Saint John Transit Headquarters on McDonald Street from Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Transit officials confirm they do not store your identification information during this process.

If you prefer not to use the SJTRides app, you can still purchase paper monthly passes or multi ride cards at vendor locations across the city. You also retain the option to pay with exact cash when boarding the bus.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the new validation requirement begin?

The new rule takes effect on November 1, 2026. You must validate your ID before this date to continue buying discounted fares on the app.

Do I need to validate my ID every year?

Students must renew their validation annually at the beginning of the school year. Seniors only need to validate their ID once.

What if I do not use the transit app?

You can still buy physical monthly passes and multi ride cards at local vendors or pay your fare with exact cash on the bus.