Multiple sources report that Maui County is expanding fare-free Maui Bus access starting July 1, 2026, the beginning of the new county fiscal year. Students of any age with a valid school ID and Maui County employees with a county badge will now ride at no cost, removing the previous age-24 cap on student passes. The county’s Department of Transportation Director stated the revenue impact would be minimal, and the change is aimed at broadening public transit access.
- Effective July 1, 2026, students of any age with a valid student ID ride free on Maui Bus fixed routes — previously the free student fare was capped at age 24
- County of Maui employees with a valid county ID will also ride free starting July 1
- Existing fare-free categories remain: riders 55+, Medicare cardholders, ADA Paratransit cardholders, physician-certified disability pass holders, and income-based or disability fare-free ID holders
- Fare-free ID cards for low-income or disabled riders are issued through Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO); contact (808) 877-7651 or apply by mail, fax, or email
- New or adjusted bus stops are being added in Kahului (Puʻunēnē Avenue), Haliʻimāile, Nāpili, and Kīhei (Piʻikea Avenue)
- The fixed-route service is operated by Roberts Hawaiʻi; schedule info at mauicounty.gov/bus
- DOT Director Marc Takamori told councilmembers the revenue impact of the expanded free fares would be ‘minimal’ (Hoodline)
Sources
- Hoodline: Free Maui Bus Rides For Students And County Employees
- Maui County: Maui Bus fixed-route fares are free for students of any age, County employees starting July 1
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