FAQs




I missed the U-Pass distribution dates. How do I get my U-Pass?
Depending on when you registered the ID services may have a pre-printed U-Pass for you in the ID Services Offices. If the ID service office does not have a preprint for you then they will submit a request for a new U-pass for you. A $5 administration fee may apply to cover shipping and handling. The U-Pass will be sent to your designated campus in 5-7 business days.

How will I be charged?
DePaul students, who meet the requirements, will be charged a nominal fee automatically on the student tuition bill. This helps defray CTA's costs for offering the program. If the U-Pass is not picked up, the U-Pass fee will remain on the student’s account.

What do I need to pick-up my U-Pass?
Eligible students are responsible for picking up their U-Passes. All students MUST present a valid DePaul ID in order to receive a U-Pass.

U-Pass distribution days/times are announced at the beginning of Fall, Winter and Spring quarters. Watch for on campus signage, e-mail announcements and the web site for upcoming distribution dates and times.

I am a dual degree seeking student, am I eligible?
Yes, as long as your combined credit hours meet the U-Pass requirement and one of your degrees is participating in the U-Pass. 

Who should I contact with questions or concerns?
If you have questions or comments concerning your U-Pass, you may send an e-mail to upass@depaul.edu.

May I have my U-Pass mailed to me?
No, you must show a valid DePaul ID in person to obtain or request your U-Pass.

If my U-Pass was active all winter quarter, do I need a new U-Pass?
No,  your U-Pass will remain active for spring break and spring quarter. 

If my U-Pass was deactivated during the winter quarter because I dropped classes, do I need a new spring quarter U-Pass if I meet the U-Pass credit hour requirements?
Yes, please go to U-Pass distribution and get your valid U-Pass.



What if my U-Pass is lost or stolen?
Bring your valid DePaul ID and $35 fee (cash, credit card or money order only) to the CTA's Customer Service Center at 567 W. Lake Street, Monday-Friday 8am-4pm, to request a replacement U-Pass. A replacement U-Pass will be sent to your designated campus within 5-7 business days.

CTA will replace lost or stolen U-Pass cards only ONCE per academic term. The replacement fee is non-refundable. You will not be issued any temporary fare.

What if my U-Pass is captured in CTA fare equipment?
On CTA Buses:
The card will be collected. You will be asked to complete a Report of Captured Farecard (form 3027). You will be allowed to ride free and given a copy of the report.  Bring your copy of the form and DePaul ID to CTA's Customer Service Center at 567 W. Lake Street (Monday-Friday 8am-4pm) to request a replacement U-Pass. The replacement U-Pass will be sent to your designated campus in 5-7 business days. You will not be issued any temporary fare.

At CTA Rail Stations:
The card will be collected. You will be asked to complete a Fare Discrepancy Report (Form 3024). You will be issued a $4.50 transit card and a copy of the report. 

Bring the report and your DePaul ID to CTA's Customer Service Center at 567 W. Lake Street, Monday-Friday 8am-4pm, to request a replacement U-Pass. When you present the form to the customer service agent, you will be issued an unlimited five-day transit pass. The replacement U-Pass will be sent to your designated campus in 5-7 business days.

What if my U-Pass is damaged or defective?
Bring the damaged card and your DePaul ID to CTA's Customer Service Center at 567 W. Lake Street, Monday-Friday 8am-4pm to request a replacement U-Pass. Your damaged card will be collected and you will be issued an unlimited five-day transit pass.

The replacement U-Pass will be sent to your designated campus in 5-7 business days.

How often can I use my U-Pass per day?
As often as you want (you can't reuse your card at the same station or on the same bus line for 10-15 minutes). The U-Pass allows you unlimited rides on the CTA, anytime, anywhere, any reason.

Can I share my U-Pass with my friends?
U-Pass is limited to exclusive use by the full-time student whose name and photo appear on the card. Any U-Pass presented by a person other than the student whose name and photo appears on it will be confiscated and the person may be subject to arrest.

Can I use my U-Pass on Pace suburban bus and Metra commuter train lines?
Your U-Pass is accepted on CTA buses and trains only. The U-Pass is not accepted on Pace or Metra.

I drive—does the U-Pass have any benefits for me?
The U-Pass gives you an opportunity to get out of your car and:
  • Save money - no parking, gas and car upkeep costs;
  • Help save the environment - lower fuel emissions;
  • and Reduce frustration - avoid traffic congestion.


Where can I call for directions?
Get travel information and directions by calling the RTA Travel Center at 836-7000 from any area code (TTY: 312-836-4949). Operators are available daily from 5 am - 1:00 am.  They can also send you a CTA System Map, Downtown Sightseeing Guide or schedules. CTA Maps and Downtown Sightseeing Guides are also available at CTA train stations. 

My U-Pass deactivated all of the sudden. What happened?
It may be one of four reasons:
  1. Your U-Pass was de-magnitized or damaged.
  2. Your U-Pass is on a hot/stolen list.
  3. You no longer meet the credit hour requirements.  U-Pass will automatically deactivate. No refunds will be provided.
  4. CTA error


Notices
U-Pass Fee Exception Form: submit by January 17, 2010