Everything you need to know about the NY MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard photo requirements for seniors and qualified riders, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to apply.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Document Type | NY MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard (Seniors / Disabled) |
| Photo Size | 1.5 x 2 inches (38 x 51 mm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 300 |
| Head Size | Head must be centered and clearly visible |
| Background Color | White or off-white |
| Printable | Yes |
| Digital for Online Submission | Check MTA website for current requirements |
| Digital Photo Size | 450 x 600 pixels (approx.) |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte or glossy |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) requires a photo for the Reduced Fare MetroCard application. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
The Reduced Fare MetroCard is a special transit card offered by the MTA that provides half-fare rides on New York City subways and local buses. It is available to seniors age 65 and older, Medicare recipients, and qualified individuals with disabilities. As part of the application process, you must provide a recent photo that meets specific requirements for identification purposes.
The MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard photo must be 1.5 x 2 inches (38 x 51 mm). This is a rectangular format that differs from the standard US passport photo in two ways:
Glasses are generally not permitted in ID-type photos for transit cards. Remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking the photo. Glasses can cause glare and obstruct the view of your eyes, which are critical for identification purposes.
There are several ways to apply for a Reduced Fare MetroCard, and each method may have slightly different photo submission requirements:
Processing times vary by method. Online and in-person applications are typically faster than mail-in applications.
To qualify for a Reduced Fare MetroCard, you must meet one of the following criteria:
Source: MTA Reduced Fare Information
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a quality ID photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level -- not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. You may have a very slight, natural smile -- but no teeth showing and no squinting.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID photos
An MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard photo must be 1.5 x 2 inches (38 x 51 mm). This is a rectangular format that is narrower than a standard US passport photo, which is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
The MTA Reduced Fare MetroCard is available to seniors age 65 and older, Medicare recipients (regardless of age), and qualified individuals with disabilities. You must provide proof of age, Medicare status, or disability documentation when applying.
Yes. The MTA MetroCard photo is 1.5 x 2 inches (rectangular), while a standard passport photo is 2 x 2 inches (square). The MetroCard photo is 0.5 inches narrower in width but the same height. You cannot submit a standard passport photo as-is for the MetroCard application.
Not directly. The MTA requires a 1.5 x 2 inch photo, while a passport photo is 2 x 2 inches. However, you can upload your existing passport photo to PassportPhoto.help and our tool will resize and crop it to the correct 1.5 x 2 inch dimensions while maintaining proper proportions.
You can submit your photo through several channels: online through the MTA website during the application process, by mail with your printed application form (attach a printed photo on photo-quality paper), or in person at the MTA Customer Service Center at 3 Stone Street in Lower Manhattan.
Generally no. For ID-type photos, glasses are typically not permitted as they can cause glare and obstruct the view of your eyes. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses and sunglasses before taking the photo to ensure it meets requirements.
