Kerrie Joyce 
New Jersey Transit announced on November 11th that reduced fare cards without photo ID will no longer be accepted starting on January 1st, 2026. In addition to this announcement, it was reported that NJ Transit stations have rolled out fare gates and ticket-checking staff to combat fare evasion which has reportedly cost the transit agency an estimated $80 million. Read on to learn more about the new policies NJ Transit is set to adopt.
New Policies Combatting Fare Evasion
The Bergen Record reported earlier this year on the introduction of fare gates at NJ Transit stations in Secaucus and Newark Liberty Airport. Those gates were described as, “8 feet tall and are equipped with ‘advanced, sensor-based feedback mechanisms’ to prevent fare evasion.” According to NJ.com, random ticket checks have been conducted at 40 stations prior to boarding as part of the same initiative to combat fare-evasion, which cost the transit agency an estimated $80 million in revenue loss. Via the same reporting, “Commuters at dozens of NJ Transit stations have been greeted by people in uniforms asking to check their tickets before boarding a train. They’re not conductors, they’re ticket collectors, joined by NJ Transit police.”
Changes Ahead for Reduced Fare Passengers
For passengers eligible for the reduced fare program, reduced fare cards will now require photo ID to be accepted. The reduced fare program is aimed to accommodate seniors, folks with disabilities, and military personnel. Per NJ Transit, if you have an older version of the Reduced Fare ID card that did not include photo, you will need to apply for a new card prior to January 1st. To get an updated card, eligible passengers can apply online. NJ Transit also states that senior passengers may print the application and mail the completed form along with proof of age and a recent photo. Those with disabilities may also print this application and have it completed and sent to NJ Transit by a physician or certifying agency. The mailing address for both printable applications is as follows:
NJ TRANSIT
Reduced Fare Program
2 Gateway
Suite 900
283-299 Market Street
Newark, NJ 07102
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