- Bikes
- Children
- Disorderly Passengers
- Electronic Devices
- Fares
- Holiday Schedule
- Lost & Found
- Mobile App
- Onboard WiFi
- Parking
- Passengers with Disabilities
- Service Animals
- Smoking
- Stowing bags and other items
- Ticket Refunds
- Quiet Cars
Are ticket reservations required?
Tickets may be purchased at any time. One-way tickets are valid for 90 days, and multi-ride tickets (10-ride, 25-ride) are valid for 1 year. Tickets are not specific to any date or train, and may be used at any time prior to expiration.
Are electric scooters permitted?
Electric scooters are permitted on trains if they can be folded or taken apart to fit in the overhead luggage area. Scooters that will not fit in the storage area will be treated as bicycles and are prohibited on non-bike trains and non-bike stations.
Where do bikes board the train?
Bicyclists may board and detrain only from hi-level platforms. South Bend, 11th Street Michigan City, Dune Park, Portage/Ogden Dunes, Miller, East Chicago, Hammond, Hegewisch, and all Metra stations. Bikes will NOT be loaded or off loaded at low level platforms.
Where are bike cars located?
Bike cars could be positioned at any location in the train – look for a bike symbol prominently located on the windows of bike rack-equipped train cars.
Can I ask for help handling my bike?
Operating crews are not to handle bicycles. Movement of the bicycle in and out of bike rack is the responsibility of the bike owner.
Am I guaranteed a bike rack space on my return trip?
Bike space will be handled on a first come, first serve basis. Space is not guaranteed on an initial or return trip (including late trains).
Can overcrowding affect bikes on trains?
Train crews have the final authority on accommodating bicycles. Crews may prohibit a cyclist from boarding due to overcrowding.
Is there an additional fee for bringing my bike onboard?
No additional fare collection applies for a bicycle brought aboard a train.
What do we do with our bikes during an emergency?
In the event of an emergency evacuation, cyclists must leave their bicycles on the train.
In what other ways am I responsible for my bike?
Bikes may not block aisles or impede passenger movement and cyclists must accompany their bikes due to overcrowding.
Are there times that bikes are not allowed?
The following bike blackout dates include but are not limited to: Lollapalooza and the Chicago Air and Water Show.
Can I bring a collapsible bike?
Collapsible bikes are permitted on SSL designated bike trains. They may also be brought on regular service non-bike trains ONLY if collapsed and placed in a bag, and they must fit in the overhead luggage rack or under the seat. Collapsible bikes without a storage bag will not be permitted on non-bike trains.
Can children travel alone?
Children 10 years of age and older are permitted to travel alone.
Are there special rates for children?
Up to three children thirteen (13) years of age and under ride free when accompanied by a parent on all weekend, holiday and off-peak weekday trains. Additionally, children 13 and under always receive a reduced rate of half fare. An accompanying adult must be a parent or legal guardian and at least 21 years of age.
*Off-peak weekday trains arrive at Millennium Station after 9:30 am CST and depart Millennium Station before 3:30 pm and after 6:30 pm CST.
Are strollers permitted on trains?
Strollers are permitted on trains, but since space is limited, umbrella or collapsable strollers are preferred for easier stowing.
Due to safety concerns and potential liability to our company, we will no longer assist passengers in lifting strollers on and off the train while a child remains in the stroller.
This is not intended to deny or prevent services to our passengers with children using strollers. However, we will require that the child be removed from the stroller before a train crew member will assist in loading or removing the stroller from the train. Whenever possible the stroller should be folded before being placed on the train and not unfolded until the stroller is removed from the train.
In instances where ADA assistance is required, please follow the ADA guidelines and use the wheelchair lift and ramps at designated station stops.
What are considered off-peak train times?
Weekday off-peak trains are those arriving in Chicago after 9:30 a.m., and departing Chicago before 3:30 p.m. and after 6:30 p.m. All weekend trains are considered off-peak trains.
What about disorderly passengers?
If a fellow passenger is acting inappropriately, please inform the nearest South Shore Line employee. South Shore Line reserves the right to remove disorderly passengers.
Can I listen to music while riding?
While headphones are permitted, please keep the volume to a modest level so that fellow passengers cannot hear your music.
Can cell phones be used on trains?
You are welcome to use your cell phone; however, we request that you speak in a low volume and keep your phone on vibrate. In quiet cars, the last car in rush hour trains, we do not permit the use of cell phones.
Are ticket reservations required?
Tickets may be purchased at any time. One-way tickets are valid for 90 days, and multi-ride tickets (10-ride, 25-ride) are valid for 1 year. Tickets are not specific to any date or train, and may be used at any time prior to expiration.
What’s the best way to handle a misunderstanding with ticket fares?
Please pay the fare requested at that time, ask for and keep the receipt, then contact the Manager, Passenger Revenue, NICTD, 503 North Carroll Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360-5026 with your account of the matter.
Do infants need tickets?
Children under two years of age ride free in the arms or lap of an adult passenger.
Do you offer discounts for children?
Up to three children thirteen years of age and under ride free when accompanied by a parent on all weekend, holiday and off-peak weekday trains. Additionally, children 13 and under always receive a reduced rate of half fare. (Train personnel reserve the right to request proof of age from passengers riding at reduced fare).
*Off-peak weekday trains arrive at Millennium Station after 9:30 am CST and depart Millennium Station before 3:30 pm and after 6:30 pm CST.
Do you offer special rates for commuting students?
Children commuting to accredited elementary, middle and high schools may qualify for a reduced one- way or 25-ride ticket. Please contact SSL for an application. Commuting student tickets are not transferable and are good only for travel to and from regular school classes. Tickets are not valid in the evening, Saturday, Sunday, or holiday travel to and from special or off-campus school-related activities.
Does the South Shore Line offer a reduced SENIOR FARE?
Passengers at least 65 years of age are eligible for reduced fare on all NICTD trains. To qualify, the passenger must present a government issued identification card showing proof of age at the time of purchase. Forms of identification may include, but are not limited to, driver’s license, RTA or Medicare Card. Passengers qualifying for RTA Ride Free Permit Cards ride free only between Hegewisch and Chicago; all others pay reduced fares from Chicago to South Bend.
Do you offer special rates or services for passengers with disabilities?
All passengers displaying RTA Reduced Fare Card for Disabilities, NICTD Disability Card, RTA Ride Free Permit Card, RTA Paratransit Card, or Medicare card are eligible for reduced fares on all South Shore Line trains when ID is shown. Contact South Shore Line for information and application for NICTD Disability Card. For train information in alternate formats call 312-836-7000 or TDD through Indiana Relay Services at 800-743-3333. Passengers qualifying for RTA Ride Free Permit Cards ride free only between Hegewisch and Chicago; all others pay reduced fares from Chicago to South Bend.
Do you offer special rates for military personnel?
Active duty military personnel may travel at reduced fare at all times and must show the “Uniformed Services” Common Access Card (CAC).
How can I receive a refund for an unused ticket?
To receive reimbursement for an unused ticket or if the SSL is providing refunds for one-way tickets due to an extensive delay, you will need to mail your ticket to:
NICTD Attn: Refunds 503 North Carroll Avenue Michigan City, IN 46360
Please include your name, address and phone number with the ticket.
If you would like to request reimbursement for a ticket purchased through the South Shore mobile app, contact app support under “more” in the app.
Are there special holiday train schedules?
The SSL holiday schedule is in effect during the official observance of New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. If New Year’s Day, Independence Day, or Christmas Day fall on a Sunday, we operate a weekend/holiday schedule on the following Monday.
The SSL operates a regular weekday schedule on the following holidays (if the holiday falls on a weekday): Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Good Friday, Juneteenth, Columbus Day, Halloween, Veteran’s Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Do you have a lost and found?
Although SSL is not responsible for lost or stolen items, we do have a lost and found. Please email Lostandfound@nictd.com your message concerning a lost item. Please allow time for items to be processed. Items must be claimed at Carroll Ave. Station. After 14 days SSL will dispose of all unclaimed items.
When should I activate my ticket?
Tickets should be activated once seated aboard the train, prior to the arrival of the collector/conductor. Single trip tickets will be active for 1 hour from the time of activation and monthly passes will be active the entire day until midnight.
I get an error when trying to activate my ticket.
This error typically happens when your phone is having an issue connecting to our servers. Rebooting your phone should reestablish your Internet connection and allow you to activate your ticket.
Why are my tickets locked?
If your ticket is stored on your device, doing a factory reset or deleting the app will cause your ticket to be locked. To avoid this, move your ticket to cloud storage (see below) prior to doing a reset or deleting the app. If you have activated your monthly ticket it cannot be unlocked until after midnight.
How to move tickets to a new phone?
Prior to activating a new phone or resetting the phone, it is important that your tickets are moved to our cloud. Go to Menu->Settings->Ticket Storage and move your tickets. After the new phone is activated or reset, you can log into your account and you should see your tickets. You can then move your tickets back to your device. Active tickets cannot be moved.
Why can't I see my available tickets?
The most common reason for not being able to see your available tickets is that you may not be logged into your account. Select the Menu->Settings and the button at the bottom will allow you to log into your account. If that does not fix your issue, you may need to kill the app and re-launch it.
When should I buy my Monthly Pass?
Monthly passes can be purchased at any time. Keep in mind that if you purchase your pass on or after the 12th of the month, it cannot be activated until the next calendar month.
I forgot my password. How can I retrieve it?
On the login screen, there is a link at the bottom right side of the screen that says Forgot Password. Type in your email and it will send you a link to reset your password.
Who qualifies for Children and Senior fares?
All of our fare policies are available on our website. Click here to be directed.
How do I request a refund for an unused ticket?
If you would like to request a refund for a ticket purchased through the South Shore mobile app, contact app support under “more” in the app.
How To Use NICTD WiFi
South Shore Line trains are equipped with free WiFi, so whether you want to get a little more work in, or do some relaxing by surfing the web, the SSL has you covered. In order for all passengers to be able to take advantage of this free feature, only general web browsing is recommended. Streaming music, videos or downloading large files are not supported.
Follow these steps in order to connect to the SSL onboard WiFi:
1. Select network SouthShoreWiFi-car number (can numbers are listed on the front of your train car).
2. Agree to the terms of use.
3. You’re connected!
*If you have an IPhone and your phone “goes to sleep”, you will need to reconnect to the internet.
What Internet Speed Can I Expect?
Our onboard WiFi network relies on bandwidth provided by our cellular carriers, which has towers along our routes. The speed and bandwidth of our onboard WiFi will not be the same as what you experience in your home or at your office. Bandwidth available from towers is limited, especially in more rural areas. Web activities that use a large amount of bandwidth will cause a slower connection and speed for other passengers, so please be courteous and do not stream videos.
Are There Any Restrictions?
In order to maximize the amount of onboard bandwidth available to all of our SSL passengers, access to streaming media such as videos or music, as well as large file sizes will be limited. Make all downloads before boarding the SSL train.
How Secure is the SSL Network?
South Shore Line WiFi is a public network, therefore, it is not secure and communications can be intercepted. Riders are to be held responsible for securing their data and equipment from viruses, spyware and other harmful components.
What If I Have Trouble Connecting?
If you have trouble connecting to the onboard WiFi, you can report the issue to a SSL conductor or complete a complaint form on the website. If you are on a train car without functioning WiFi, you will need to obtain the train car number that you are on in order to complete the report. The train car number is noted at the front of the car. Once the report is made, the SSL will work to find a resolution.
Is there parking at every station?
Parking lots are provided at every station. Get to the Hammond, Gary Metro, and 11th Street stations early on weekdays, as the lots fill up quickly. Parking is free, except for Hegewisch, Gary, and South Bend stations. With questions, contact:
- Hegewisch parking near the railroad is managed by IMPark (Hegewisch): 877-771-7383 (Lot Code 2272)
- Hegewisch parking behind Burger King near the intersection of Brainard and Ave O is managed by CPS call 877-717-0004
- Gary Public Transportation Corp. (Gary Metro): 219-885-7555
- South Bend provides several parking lots and rates. For more info, click here.
Can I park overnight?
For security reasons, we don’t encourage overnight parking in any of our lots. However, passengers who choose overnight parking are at their own risk. Please note that Hegewisch and Gary Metro Center are paid lots, so you will need to contact those lots directly. Please see contact information above. South Shore Line assumes no liability for cars parked in its lots.
Are South Shore trains accessible to passengers using wheelchairs?
Not all South Shore stations are accessible to passengers using wheelchairs. On our train schedule we clearly denote those stations accessible to passengers with disabilities with the international symbol. The following stations have platforms that are level with the car floor: Millennium Station, Van Buren St., Museum Campus/11th St, McCormick Place, 57th St., Hegewisch, Hammond, East Chicago, Miller, Portage/Ogden Dunes, Dune Park, and South Bend International Airport. Gary Metro Center, Beverly Shores and Carroll Ave. use a portable lift to access the center door of the car. Portable lifts have a space limitation of 34” X 42” and a maximum lifting weight of an occupied wheelchair of 600 lbs (manufacturer’s specification).
To hear the most up-to-date elevator status for SSL Metra station elevators, please dial (312) 322-6925 and select #1-Metra Electric from the automated options. Passengers may also click here for Metra service alerts regarding station elevators, including Millennium Station and Van Buren Street.
To receive the most up-to-date elevator status for the Gary Metro Center Station, please check the ADA page for service alerts.
For further ADA information, click here.
How do I report an elevator outage?
To report a South Shore station elevator out-of-service or malfunctioning, please contact NICTD Transit Police at 219-398-6000.
Do you allow animals on trains?
Police dogs, ADA service animals, or small animals (transported in carry-on travel cages stowed under the seat) are the only animals allowed on trains. Service animals are animals that are trained to perform specific tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. All animals must be under the control of their handler at all times. Any animals who cause significant disturbance or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others may be requested to leave the train. Animals are not permitted to occupy seats.
Is smoking permitted?
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in passenger cars, stations, or on platforms.
Do you allow animals on trains?
Police dogs, ADA service animals, or small animals (transported in carry-on travel cages stowed under the seat) are the only animals allowed on trains. Service animals are animals that are trained to perform specific tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. All animals must be under the control of their handler at all times. Any animals who cause significant disturbance or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others may be requested to leave the train. Animals are not permitted to occupy seats.
Can I bring a stroller?
Strollers are permitted on trains, but since space is limited, umbrella or collapsable strollers are preferred for easier stowing.
Due to safety concerns and potential liability to our company, we will no longer assist passengers in lifting strollers on and off the train while a child remains in the stroller.
This is not intended to deny or prevent services to our passengers with children using strollers. However, we will require that the child be removed from the stroller before a train crew member will assist in loading or removing the stroller from the train. Whenever possible the stroller should be folded before being placed on the train and not unfolded until the stroller is removed from the train.
In instances where ADA assistance is required, please follow the ADA guidelines and use the wheelchair lift and ramps at designated station stops.
Can luggage, coolers and carry-ons be brought on the train?
When it comes to luggage, if you do it on the plane, do it on the train. In other words, luggage has to fit either under your seat (11″h x 15″d x 25″w) or in our overhead luggage racks (14″h x 17″d). Coolers must be placed underneath seats (11″h x 15″d x 25”w).
Large luggage (or other large items including coolers) can be considered a safety hazard or impede the flow of passengers. NICTD personnel reserve the right to deny train entry to passengers carrying luggage or other items that do not meet the size requirements.
How do I get a refund for tickets I purchased on the South Shore mobile app?
If you would like to request a refund for a ticket purchased through the South Shore mobile app, please contact App Support via the app by selecting “More” in the menu options, and “App Support” from the HELP section.
How do I get a refund for unused one-way tickets or SSL refunds issued due to extensive delays?
To receive a refund for an unused ticket or if the SSL is providing refunds for one-way tickets due to an extensive delay, you will need to mail your ticket to:
NICTD Attn: Refunds 503 North Carroll Avenue Michigan City, IN 46360
*Please include your name, address and phone number with the ticket.
What are quiet cars?
Looking for a quiet commute or a little unwind time after work? Try a South Shore Line Quiet Car! The last (rear) car of all rush hour trains between Michigan City and Chicago will be designated a Quiet Car. Seating is first-come, first-served. While Quiet Cars are not completely silent, they are a place for peace and quiet. Need to have a conversation or take a phone call? No problem! Just move to another car.
Our onboard Conductors and Collectors must focus on safety and collection of fares as their top priorities. Crew members are assigned to multiple cars while on duty, and cannot monitor the sound level in the Quiet Car at every moment. Crew members and passengers alike must work together to create a quiet atmosphere by providing gentle reminders when certain passengers are not being mindful of Quiet Car etiquette. We expect any such exchanges to be civil – there is simply no excuse for extreme exchanges of words on the Quiet Car. Those who cannot maintain a civil attitude while in the Quiet Car may be asked to move to another car. Quite frankly, Quiet Cars can be challenging on any public transportation service, and we appreciate your understanding if your Quiet Car experience is not as quiet as one would like.
Quiet Car passengers are asked to:
- Be respectful
- Turn off cell phone ringer
- Mute all electronic devices
- Keep any conversation brief and in whispers
- Turn headphones down
There is no additional fee for the Quiet Car, but passengers are asked to occupy only one seat per person. Enjoy your quiet ride!
Fares and rules are governed by tariffs approved by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District Board of Trustees and Metra. In case of discrepancy, the information found in the tariff shall be considered authoritative. Neither NICTD nor Metra are responsible for errors in timetables, inconvenience, or damage resulting from delayed trains or failure to make connections. Passengers may be requested, at any time during the journey, to show proof of purchase of transportation. Please keep your ticket, ticket receipt, or cash fare receipt until you have left the train.