MTA field guide
The useful details behind playing tennis in New York City and getting involved with MTA.
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Permits, public courts, community, and the Manhattan Ladder—everything you need to get into the game.
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A permit is needed to use any outdoor court from the first Saturday in April to the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Full-season permits for adults ages 18 to 61 cost $100. Permits for seniors ages 62 and older cost $20. Permits cost $10 for kids and teens younger than 18 years old.
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Adults (18-61): $100 per season. Seniors (62+): $20 per season. Kids & teens (under 18): $10 per season. Permits can be purchased online, via mail, or in-store at Paragon Sports Union Square.
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The signup sheet is a schedule, posted every morning, that lets permit holders reserve a court. Check the individual court listing for its sign-up process and timing.
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Join the MTA community, attend an event, or use the Manhattan Ladder to meet players at your level. The Court Finder also helps you find the courts where New Yorkers regularly play.
The Manhattan Ladder
The essentials for finding your division, scheduling matches, and making your move.
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The Manhattan Ladder is MTA’s seasonal, level-based singles competition. Players arrange matches on their own schedule and move through their division by winning.
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Divisions are grouped by NTRP level so that players compete against opponents with similar experience and ability.
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Visit the Ladder page to review the divisions, season details, and current registration links.
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The complete ladder rules, rankings, match format, and playoff details are available on the Ladder page.
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