Authorities renewed a multi‑trip ticket program to offer free travel on intercity buses, operated as a state program under the same terms as in the prior year. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to expand affordable public transportation in North America, supporting commuters and reducing congestion.
Specifically, the renewal includes a subscription valid for four months. A payment is required up front, with a refundable deposit. At the end of each term (April, August, and December), eligibility for the deposit depends on usage: if at least 16 trips have been completed during the term, the deposit is refunded. This design rewards consistent use while keeping the program financially sustainable for the service providers.
Proponents argue that the measure advances several public policy goals. It incentivizes the use of public transportation, improves urban mobility, and promotes healthier, safer, and more sustainable travel. By expanding access to affordable transit, emissions from private vehicles can be reduced, and overall mobility in the region can become more resilient to energy price volatility. These objectives are pursued in a context marked by fluctuating energy costs, ongoing regional conflicts, and post‑pandemic economic adjustments, including inflationary pressures.
Government maintains free Cercanías and public transport subsidy
Title types
Users purchase a separate title for each journey. Typically, a deposit is required to cover a portion of the ticket price: 20 euros for tickets under 5 euros, 35 euros for tickets between 5 and 13 euros, 50 euros for tickets between 13 and 25 euros, and 65 euros for higher‑value tickets. These deposits are designed to secure the ticket and ensure responsible use of the system.
Free titles are obtained through the sales channels of the participating transit agencies that offer the program. These titles are personal and require identification such as a government-issued ID, a passport, or another approved document, along with a mobile phone number or email address. Minors without official identification must provide their date of birth. After registering at a location designated by the service provider, a unique code is issued to access the titles, which can be presented as a QR code or an alphanumeric identifier.
Should the concessionaire detect improper use of multi‑trip tickets three times within a single validity period, the title and the associated deposit may be revoked. Previously, users receive a warning via text message or email about potential consequences. As a result, the user may be temporarily blocked from purchasing discounted tickets for any origin‑destination within the same contract until the current term ends.