Public transport card
The student discount, how it differs by French region, and tips on paying for annual or monthly cards.
In the first weeks after arrival
- University enrolment certificate or age proof for the discount
- Passport photo for the transport card
- Regional address proof
- IBAN for a monthly subscription or the annual card fee
1. Find the right card for your region
In Paris and its suburbs, imagine R étudiant is standard; other cities use different names and prices for student cards.
2. Prepare the discount documents
A university enrolment certificate and being under the applicable age cap (in some regions) are needed for the student discount.
3. Choose annual or monthly
An annual card is usually cheaper overall but needs an upfront or instalment payment; for large cash payments, check with your bank or the tax authority beforehand.
4. Activate and renew the card
Register the card with a photo and documents, and update the official system before it expires or when your address or age bracket changes.
- The card's name and terms vary by French region (e.g. imagine R in Île-de-France); check the local transport operator's official site before buying.