Freedom Pass

Our veterans with a VA medical card can ride the New Mexico Rail Runner Express for free with Rio Metro's Freedom Pass.

About the Pass

What is the Freedom Pass?

This is a free lifetime pass to ride the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. Pass holders can ride all New Mexico Rail Runner Express trains at no cost. Many bus connections are also free with the Freedom Pass, including Santa Fe Trails, ABQ RIDE and Rio Metro buses (note: passes are not valid for Dial-a-Ride services in Rio Rancho or Valencia County).

How do I qualify for the Pass?

Anyone with a VHIC (VA card) or a VHIC report from the VA Medical Center qualifies for a pass.

Where can I get the Pass?

Passes are available at the New Mexico Rail Runner Express Customer Service Office and the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque. They are also availble at Ecomotive Electric Bikes in Santa Fe and at the Los Lunas Transportation Center. Please see the calendar below for office hours. You must present your VHIC (VA card) or VHIC report to receive your pass.

* Please view the holiday calendar for a complete list.

Has the program been extended?

The Freedom Pass is now a permanent program, and the pass no longer expires.

Annual Pass Renewal Locations

The Freedom Pass is now a permanent program, and the pass no longer expires. If you have a Veterans Annual Pass that expires on December 31, 2016, visit one of the locations listed above to receive the new Freedom Pass (please bring your VA card or VHIC report).

How do I get a VHIC (VA card)?

You can apply for a VHIC (VA card) at the Raymond G. Murphy Medical Center, 1501 San Pedro Dr. SE, Building 41, Albuquerque, NM 87108 (map). They can be contacted at (505) 265-1711.

Partner Agencies

The annual pass has been made possible by the ongoing collaborative efforts between the following agencies:

• Mid-Region Council of Governments (MRCOG)
• The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (NMDVS)
• The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS)
• The City of Albuquerque
• Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center

Fraudulent Use of the Pass

The Freedom Pass may ONLY be used by the person it is issued to. If a passenger presents a Freedom Pass that does not belong to them it is considered a fraudulent act. Repercussions are as follows:

• The Ticket Agent/Conductor will retain the Freedom Pass
• The passenger will have to pay the appropriate fare for their trip
• The Pass will then be turned over to Rio Metro Rail Operations
• The owner of the Freedom Pass may have their privileges of the Freedom Pass revoked

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