# Travel >> Transportation >> Subways

How to Get a Free Printed New York Subway Map

Planning your first trip to New York City? The subway is a cheap and reliable way to travel to every part of the city. If you've never taken the subway, it might seem intimidating or confusing. Familiarizing yourself with a map of the subway system before your trip can help you get around smoothly. With a little preparation in advance, you'll soon navigate the subway with ease.

To get a free map of the NYC subway system, you can download or request a copy from the Metropolitan Transit Authority's website.

Instructions

Print at Home
- 1
  Ensure that your computer has Adobe Reader version 6.0 or later. If you need to dowload Adobe or update your version, go to get.adobe.com/reader. Click "Download Now" and follow the prompts.
- 2
  Go online to mta.info/nyct/maps/submap.htm. Click on the letters "PDF" above the map. This will open the map as a PDF.
- 3
  Click the printer icon in the upper left-hand corner. Adjust your printer settings if needed and click "OK."
By Mail
- 4
  Go to mta-nyc.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/mta_nyc.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php. Enter your email address.
- 5
  Select "NYC Transit Subway" in the "MTA Service" drop-down menu. In the "Category" drop-down menu, select "Information Request." In the Subject line, enter "Request for subway map."
- 6
  Write a short email requesting a map by mail. Omit long explanations and keep it as brief as possible. Include your home address and your full name in the email. Click "Continue."
- 7
  Enter your first name, last name and zip code, and confirm your email address. Click "Next."
- 8
  Click "Send Email." Jot down your email's reference number. Replies can take up to 15 business days.