Metro riders can now board buses and enter rail stations using a credit or debit card instead of a TAP card. The new Metro Contactless Fare Payment system allows riders to tap a physical card or a card stored in a smartphone wallet at fare validators across the transit network.
The change also extends beyond Metro. Twenty-five local transit agencies that participate in the TAP program now accept the same payment method, creating a more seamless experience for riders traveling across Los Angeles County and neighboring communities.
Metro officials said all major card networks are supported, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB and UnionPay. Similar contactless fare systems already operate in major cities such as New York, London, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.
Metro Contactless Fare Payment Benefits
The new system is designed to simplify travel while preserving existing rider benefits. TAP cards will remain available in both physical and digital formats, and cash will continue to be accepted on Metro buses.
Riders who use contactless payment should continue using the same card throughout a trip. Metro said this is necessary to receive free transfers within two hours, fare-capping benefits and discounted transfers between participating agencies.
Fare capping remains unchanged. Riders who reach daily or weekly fare limits will continue receiving free rides after meeting those thresholds.
Reduced-fare riders, including those who qualify for discounted programs, should continue using TAP cards. Metro expects contactless payment options for reduced fares to become available in early 2027.
Using The New System
Using the new payment option requires only a few steps. Riders select the credit or debit card they want to use, either as a physical card or through a digital wallet on a smartphone. They then tap the card or phone on a TAP validator when boarding a bus or entering a rail station.
A green light on the validator confirms the fare has been accepted.
Metro also allows riders to pay for up to four additional people traveling together. Riders should keep their group together during the trip so transfers remain valid and proof of fare can be provided if requested.
Metro officials said the upgrade reduces the need for riders to purchase or reload fare cards before traveling. The system also helps occasional riders and visitors who may already use contactless payment for everyday purchases. Transit agencies expect the change to make boarding faster and reduce barriers to using public transportation.
More information about fares and TAP services is available at https://www.metro.net and https://www.taptogo.net.
The Metro Contactless Fare Payment rollout marks another step in modernizing public transportation across the region. For San Gabriel Valley residents who rely on Metro and connecting transit agencies, the new option offers a familiar and convenient way to travel while keeping existing fare benefits in place.
