IBB Mother Card

Mothers in Istanbul have warmly embraced the Mother Card, with over 753,000 mothers benefiting from it —far surpassing the initial target of 150,000 users. Below, we’ve answered frequently asked questions about the Mother Card.

What is the Mother Card?

The Mother Card is a transportation card that provides free public transportation for mothers living in Istanbul who have children aged 0–4 years.

This initiative aims to increase mothers’ participation in social life, support their freedom of travel, facilitate their mobility within the city, and contribute to family budgets.

To date, the Mother Card has enabled over 209 million journeys.

Who Can Apply for the Mother Card?

All mothers who:

  • Are Turkish citizens,
  • Reside in Istanbul, and
  • Have children aged 0–4 years (48 months or younger)
    are eligible to apply for the Mother Card.

How to Apply for the Mother Card?

Applications can be made:

  • Online: Visit the Istanbulkart website, click the “Apply Now” button, and complete the process through the “Online Transactions” menu.
  • In Person: Visit the nearest Istanbulkart Application Center to receive the card immediately.

Documents Required for Application

To apply for the Mother Card, you will need:

  • 1 passport-sized photo (taken within the last six months),
  • A valid ID card showing your Turkish Republic (T.C.) ID number, and
  • Your child’s ID card.

What is the Monthly Limit for the Mother Card?

The Mother Card allows for 150 free rides per month. The balance is renewed at the end of each month.

How Long is the Mother Card Valid?

The Mother Card remains valid until the 49th month after the child’s birth. On the first day of the 49th month, the card transitions to a regular Istanbulkart with standard fare rates.

Can the Mother Card Be Used by Someone Else?

No, the Mother Card is personal and can only be used by the cardholder.

Improper use of the Mother Card is subject to penalties, similar to other Istanbulkart violations:

  • First offense: 602 TL fine.
  • Second offense: 6,080 TL fine.

What to Do if the Mother Card is Lost or Stolen?

If your Mother Card is lost or stolen, immediately contact the ALO 153 Solution Center to deactivate it and prevent misuse. After deactivation, you can:

  • Apply for a new card online, or
  • Visit the nearest application center for a replacement.

Where is the Mother Card Valid?

The Mother Card is valid only within Istanbul.

Where Can the Mother Card Be Used?

In addition to free public transportation, the Mother Card can be loaded with a balance (in Turkish Lira) and used for payments at:

  • Beltur,
  • Social Facilities,
  • İspark,
  • İsper,
  • Migros,
  • A101,
  • Hamidiye Vending Machines, and
  • iTaxis.

Which Markets Accept the Mother Card?

Mothers can use their Mother Cards at Migros and A101 markets. Since the Mother Card also functions as an Istanbulkart, it can be loaded with a balance and used for grocery shopping.

How to Access the Mother Card Application Page?

You can access the application page through the Istanbulkart website.