Now in its 8th consecutive year, the "Youth Ride Free" program continues to provide free transportation for Rapid City's school-aged youth.
Free transportation will provide students better access to schools, libraries, recreation, and social events as well as save money for families and foster appreciation for public transportation among the city's youth. The change has increased school attendance, access to school resources, and participation in school and community activities.
RapidRide maps, materials and regular ride schedules are easily available online as well. Use the links below to see routes and times. Free travel training is available upon request. If you have questions or would like to schedule travel training, call us at 605-394-6631 ext. 0 between 7am-5:30pm Monday-Friday.
The Rapid Transit System is not providing physical passes to youth riders at this time. However, registration is still highly encouraged for safety purposes. High School age youth are strongly encouraged to always have an ID in order to prove their eligibility for the program. This could be a current school ID or any government issued ID. A clear photo on a cell phone is acceptable.
*At this time we are not able to accommodate Terra Sancta and Corral Drive school Tripper Routes.
*A mature rider must accompany any child aged five and under.
Rapid City youth are strongly encouraged to complete the registration form before utilizing the fixed route. Registration can be done online by filling out the form on this page, calling the Rapid Trasnsit System Dispatch office at 605-394-6631 ext. 0, or the form can be printed and submitted by mail to:
Rapid Transit System
ATTN: YRFP
333 6th Street
Rapid City, SD 57701
Infants, toddlers and preschool age youth do not need to register.
If you have questions or require additional assistance, please contact the Rapid Transit System at 605-394-6631 ext. 0.
RTS YRFP Registration Form PDF
System Maps & Schedules
Borglum
Alternating loops along West Main St. and Jackson Blvd. Major destinations: Stevens High School, West Middle School, Oyate Health Center, Canyon Lake Park.
Coolidge
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Crossing, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School, VA Clinic, Walmart North, Walmart South.
Jefferson
South East and North East Loops. Major destinations: Walmart North, Community Health Center, Dept. of Social Services, Pennington County Fairgrounds.
Lincoln
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, Walmart North, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School.
Roosevelt
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, Post Office, Monument Health by St Thomas More High School, YMCA, Star Village.
Washington
North and South central Rapid City loops. Major destinations: Rushmore Mall, VA Clinic, Walmart North, The Monument, YMCA.
Job Opportunities
Are you seeking an opportunity for new career challenges and growth?
Advertise With Us!
Advertising space on RapidRide & Dial-A-Ride vehicles is available on the rear and sides of the vehicles.
Terms for advertising are as follows:
$60.00 per month for rear advertising panel
$35.00 per month for side advertising panel
Note: annual contract required
Advertisers are responsible for all production costs. Dimensions for advertising panels vary. Ads must be pre-approved by Rapid Transit System for content, design and color(s).
Please call 605-394-6631 for more information.