You can plan your trip by choosing your starting point and destination from the options below. You can also select the schedule for weekdays or weekends by using the dropdown menu.
Schedule is valid from September 23rd, 2023 to June 1st, 2024
Program Overview
The Pass Forward Program (formerly known as the Go Pass Donation Program) began in 2021 to diversify ridership and increase access to the Caltrain system. Caltrain has launched a program that allows Go Pass subscribers to donate unused passes to a network of qualified community-serving organizations. Recipients of the Go Passes are able to ride the Caltrain at no personal cost over the course of the calendar year.
Our goal is to expand access to the Caltrain system for riders along the corridor.
The program seeks to help traditionally under-represented groups, such as equity priority communities and essential workers to bypass barriers to the Caltrain system.
These donations reduce beneficiaries’ travel costs and increase their job opportunities as their range of travel increases. A donated pass will allow these groups to enjoy all the benefits of a world-class transit system.
That is why we are currently conducting outreach to organizations who serve low-income or marginalized communities. Organizations who have the administrative ability to track and oversee the distribution of these passes are eligible to apply.
If this sounds like a constituency you or an organization you know can serve, please reach out to GPDP@caltrain.com
THE APPLICATION CYCLE FOR THE 2023 CALENDAR YEAR IS NOW CLOSED. ORGANIZATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR CONSIDERATION IN 2024.
The application should take about 45-60 mins to compete.
These include introductory questions and then organization specific questions. The Go Pass Donation Program project team will evaluate each organizations application for eligibility.
Testimonials
I ride from Redwood City to Cal Ave daily. I love the ease, and calmness of the train. it's fast and economical. No worries about traffic or gas prices or wear and tear on my car. I've convinced my coworker to use the program as well. Let's keep helping the environment and enjoying the ride!"
Kimberly Koch, Dion Health
"When I have to drive to work from Belmont I wish I was on the train. The Belmont Caltrain station is conveniently down the hill and then when I go home I get exercise biking up the hill. Plus it's fun taking the train home on Friday afternoon because people are happy it's the weekend."
Rene Rivera Rosales, Sheraton
"The train from San Jose is faster than driving. Not being in bumper-to-bumper traffic reduces the stress of my commute."
Alan Kayser, Palo Alto Bicycles
"The benefits of having a transit pass are that I can avoid traffic and it's fast. Taking transit saves me money so I have more to take care of my family."
Geraldo Valencia, Whole Foods
Pass Forward Program FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions and additional information for the Community-Serving Organizations (CSOs) participating in Pass Forward.
How can our members sign up?
You can find an in-depth guide to our sign-up process here.
How do we determine if someone is eligible to receive a pass?
The program aims to reach members of priority-equity communities who have historically faced barriers to accessing transit. Generally, this means individuals who make under $75,000 a year or who qualify for CalFresh or CalWorks. However, we don’t ask for any formal documentation and defer to our CSO partners to make a final decision on eligibility.
Can we get more passes if we distribute our initial allotment?
If you are interested in receiving additional passes, please reach out to the Caltrain team at GPDP@caltrain.com. We are open to providing additional passes based on a review of your pass distribution and usage, as well as on need and availability.
What happens once the Go Passes expire?
Go Passes expire at the end of every calendar year. The Pass Forward Team will reach out in the late Summer or early Fall, outlining the re-enrollment process for CSOs and their constituents.
What happens if someone loses a pass?
The CSO will need to update their tracking log for any reported lost passes.
If we are already administering other transit pass programs such as the SamTrans Way2Go Pass, can we utilize the same Clipper Cards?
Yes, if the Clipper Card is an Adult Clipper Card.
What happens if the Go Pass User fails to tap their Clipper Card within 180 days of the pass being loaded through the Clipper portal?
The CSO will need to update its tracking log and Caltrain will re-upload the pass to the card.
The tracking log lists the expiration date. CSOs should notify all Go Pass Users whose expiration date is approaching to tap their card.
Are we required to provide names or other potentially sensitive, self-identifying information about program participants?
If you are unable to provide Caltrain with names or other personally identifiable information, please contact passforward@caltrain.com
For individuals who are Go Pass recipients through the Pass Forward program:
How do I receive a Go Pass from a participating Community-Serving Organization (CSO)?
The Go Pass is not intended for individuals. If you are affiliated with a participating organization, please contact them for next steps.
Do I need to provide any documents, such as an ID or proof of income?
Caltrain does not require anything other than the completion of the enrollment survey. However, please contact your CSO administrator as each organization has its own requirements.
Who has access to the information I provided during the sign-up process?
The CSO and Caltrain have access to the information you provided. Caltrain doesn’t disclose personal information to third party entities. Please note, if you are unable to share personal identifying information, you can speak with your administrator for accommodations.
How soon can I begin using my Go Pass after enrolling?
Please see your organization’s administrator. They will know when the Go Pass is ready to be tapped and loaded to the Clipper Card.
Can I use an existing Clipper Card?
Yes, if it is an Adult Clipper card.
Can I put my Go Pass on more than one Clipper Card?
Yes, but when obtaining the Adult Clipper card on mobile for the first time, you will be required to load $3 in cash value. It requires you to load the cash value only when obtaining the card on mobile. $3 cash value is not required to use the Go Pass. Please note that Motorola phones are currently not supported.
Everywhere Caltrain goes. The Go Pass is valid for unlimited rides on Caltrain through any zone seven days a week.
Are there any limitations on the number of trips I can take using the pass?
No, there are no limitations on the number of Caltrain trips you can take.
What happens when my Go Pass expires?
If your organization reenrolls in the Pass Forward program, you may be able to get access to a new pass at the start of the calendar year. Please see your administrator for additional information.
Can I bring a family member with me?
Family members must purchase their own tickets. Go Pass users may have one child (ages four and under)travel with them free of charge. Additional children must travel with valid fare.
How can I recommend someone to be enrolled into the program?
Please refer them to your Pass Forward administrator.
Can I use the pass on other transportation systems, such as SamTrans?
No, the Go Pass is only valid on Caltrain.
Is it possible to load cash value or other transit agency products to my card for riding other systems?
Yes, if you are using an adult Clipper Card. If you are a Youth, Senior or are using a discounted Clipper card, you will need to be sure to use that card on other transit systems in order to receive their discount. When riding Caltrain, only the Adult card with the Go Pass should be used.
What should I do if I have any additional questions or concerns?
Your Pass Forward administrator is your best resource for any issues or comments as they arise.
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