Commuter FAQs
Find answers to common questions about commuting to Northwestern.
Public Transit
Yes. The University partners with Inspira to offer a pre-tax Commuter Transit program. Faculty and staff may have transit expenses payroll deducted pre-tax. Visit the to learn how to enroll.
Utilizing the is the best way to purchase and manage passes across the various agencies. Purchasing passes in the app provides additional benefits and discounts than buying them separately.
Unfortunately, discounts are not provided. Some graduate schools do participate in the for riding CTA and PACE buses and L lines.
Biking to Campus
Yes, all shuttles are equipped with bike racks.
There is no covered parking on the Evanston campus. The Chicago campus offers a secure bike room for a nominal annual cost.
Northwestern has partnered with 529 Garage to register bikes. The benefit is that this is a national registry. Once registered, bring proof of registration to either the Evanston or Chicago Parking Office to receive a sticker to place on your bike. Registering your bike also allows you to obtain a free helmet and light.
Zipcars
Faculty, staff and students are eligible to receive a discounted membership through the Wildcard Advantage program.
The great thing is that as a member you will have access to their full national fleet regardless of the city you are in.
Rideshare
Rideshare groups pay the full price for one parking permit. The permit cost can be split by group participants themselves, along with other shared expenses such as fuel, in order for all to save money on commuting.
On the Evanston campus, you may park in any lot or garage for which your permit is eligible. In Chicago, you will be assigned a specific garage for parking.
Hanging passes will be distributed to Evanston campus rideshare groups using two vehicles. This hangtag must be displayed in the vehicle parking on campus that day. Only one of the group's vehicles may be parked on campus at a time.
Yes. However, they will not have access to University parking facilities if they drive to work without University rideshare members.
Rideshares pay the full price for one parking permit. The permit cost can be split by group members themselves, along with other shared expenses such as fuel, in order for all to save money on commuting.
At least two people are required to register as a rideshare group.
Northwestern does not provide rideshare vehicles. However, Pace provides vans through its .
Yes, you may buy a parking permit for just winter quarter.