FAQ About Commuting by Caltrain
Caltrain is a commuter rail service that runs between Gilroy and San Francisco. The closest stops to the main Stanford campus, Stanford Hospital, and Research Park are the Palo Alto Transit Center (at University Avenue), Menlo Park, and California Avenue stations, respectively.
I am a university employee returning to my commute. Is my Go Pass still valid?
Yes. If you have a Clipper card with a Stanford-issued Go Pass that was active in March 2020, but has not been used since then, don't worry. The Go Pass is still active for eligible employees and no action is required beyond tagging on and off for each ride.
I am a new employee. How do I get a Go Pass?
Stanford Transportation is filling Go Pass requests for eligible employees by mail on a daily basis. Use our Go Pass on Clipper request form to verify eligibility and request your Go Pass. You can either add a Go Pass to an existing Clipper card or request a new Clipper card be sent to your home with the Go Pass loaded. Please allow 7 to 10 business days for a new Clipper card to arrive in the mail. Cards are mailed via USPS and do not have a tracking number.
Please note that the Stanford-provided VTA SmartPass cannot be added to an existing Clipper card like the Caltrain Go Pass. If you are eligible and would like both, you must use the request form to request a new Clipper card that will be sent to your home and loaded with both passes.
I am a graduate student or postdoctoral scholar who participates in or is interested in the Pilot Go Pass program. Is my Go Pass still valid or can I request one?
Yes. Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars who currently participate in the Pilot Go Pass programs, or are eligible for the pass, can enjoy free, unlimited travel on Caltrain through March 31, 2021, if they remain active at Stanford.
I used to rely on Caltrain to commute to campus, but it no longer works for me. What are my alternatives?
Your commute options are likely to be determined by several factors, including transit operations and schedules, individual levels of comfort, and assessment of the time, cost, perceived safety, and access to different modes.
While we are providing general information to help you consider your options, your commute is your personal choice. Stanford commuters are encouraged to assess and select the option(s) that best meet their needs.
We have created a page of return-to-commute resources that includes commute options and the ability to schedule a one-on-one commute consultation if you would like assistance on planning your commute.