Houston Voters Can Get Free Metro Rides to Polls

Public transportation service offers free round-trip rides during early voting and on Election Day.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Voters in Houston will be able to take advantage of free round-trip rides on the city's Metro public transportation system during early voting and on Election Day for the upcoming primary elections.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to increase voter turnout and access to the polls, particularly for those who may rely on public transit. Houston has historically had lower voter participation rates compared to other major Texas cities, so this free ride program could help address transportation barriers that may prevent some residents from voting.

The details

The free Metro rides will be available to all registered voters in the Houston area during early voting, which runs from February 20-March 1, as well as on Election Day, March 5. Voters simply need to show their voter registration card or other valid ID to ride for free.

  • Early voting runs from February 20 to March 1, 2026.
  • Election Day is March 5, 2026.

The players

Metro

The regional public transportation authority serving the Houston metropolitan area.

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What they’re saying

“We want to make it as easy as possible for Houstonians to exercise their right to vote. Providing free Metro rides is one way we can help remove transportation as a barrier to the polls.”

— Carrin Patman, Chair, Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

Metro officials say they will closely monitor ridership data during the election period to gauge the impact of the free ride program.

The takeaway

This initiative by Houston's public transit agency is an important step in improving voter access and participation, especially for residents who rely on affordable and reliable transportation options to get to the polls.