Introducing the New RideMETRO Fare System:
It’s the New Way to Ride!
Learn more
By Annie Chung on Febuary 2, 2026
METRO is ringing in the New Year with the RideMETRO Fare System – it’s the new way to ride!
The new RideMETRO Fare System is the quick and easy way to pay for your bus and light-rail fare. This new account-based electronic fare system features a reusable fare card and a full-service app that streamlines the boarding process. It’s entirely cloud-based, meaning instantaneous access to funds and simple tap-and-go functionality. Enjoy faster boarding and even more payment options while earning rewards with every ride!
Sponsored by
A key component of the METRONow plan, the RideMETRO Fare System does NOT include a fare increase. While similar to its predecessor, the METRO Q® Fare Card, the RideMETRO Fare System offers even more payment options, faster and easier boarding, an improved frequent rider benefit, and the newly redesigned RideMETRO app that allows you to manage your account with your smartphone.
Know How to GO!
Students, seniors (65 years of age or older), and qualified veterans can apply online for a discounted or FREE RideMETRO Card. Once you have obtained your discounted RideMETRO Card, you can convert your physical card into a virtual one in the RideMETRO app. Keep in mind, once you convert your physical card to virtual, your physical card will be deactivated.
New Year’s resolutions are all about making your life better. In 2026, METRO is doing its part to improve your travel experience while rewarding you with every paid tap you make. Get the new RideMETRO Fare Card or download the RideMETRO app today – FREE from your app store!
Visit RideMETRO.org/FareSystem for frequently asked questions and how METRO can continue to move you in 2026.
Discounts
More Ways to Pay
The launch of the RideMETRO Fare System is already underway, but don’t worry! You’ll have plenty of time to make the switch. Your current METRO Q® Fare Card will remain active throughout the transition period, which is estimated to run through April 2026. As always, cash will continue to be accepted at all METRO TVMs, participating retailers, METRO RideStores, and for one-way travel on METRO bus service (exact fare only). However, riders using cash will NOT receive the FREE three-hour transfer or the one FREE ride for every 10 paid taps benefit.
The new RideMETRO Fare System not only makes travel easier, but it’s also more rewarding. That’s because you earn one FREE ride with every 10 paid taps of your card. And with the RideMETRO app, you can add money, monitor usage, track rewards, and have peace of mind knowing your family members will have access to a safe, clean ride.
An Improved Customer Experience
The new RideMETRO Fare System offers more ways to pay your bus or train fare than ever before, which means faster payment and easier boarding.
What forms of payment does METRO accept?
METRO offers five convenient ways to pay:
• RideMETRO card
• RideMETRO app
• Credit, debit, or prepaid card
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
Will the RideMETRO Fare Card be accepted for all METRO services?
The RideMETRO Fare Card is accepted for ALL Local bus, METRORail and METRO Curb2Curb services.
Does METRO accept cash?
Cash will continue to be accepted on all METRO buses. Exact change is still required, and no free transfers will be provided. Cash is also accepted at all METRO TVMs.
How can I pay for my ride?
The RideMETRO Fare System offers three payment options:
• Using a RideMETRO Fare Card, credit, debit, or prepaid card: Tap the bright red fare validator.
• Using the RideMETRO app: Create a virtual card in the app and scan using the QR code at any validator.
• Using Apple or Google Wallet: Simply open the app on your smartphone or device to tap and pay your fare.
Where can I get my new RideMETRO card?
METRO TVMs can be found on all METRO platforms, where you’ll be able to purchase fares, add funds to an existing card or purchase a 3-hour or day pass. Cards will also be available at Mini-RideStores, online, and at select retail locations (ex: grocery stores).
Use your RideMETRO Fare Card on any METRO bus and at all METRORail stations. Just look for the bright red card reader, then tap, board, and enjoy your ride! You can also use your phone or other smart device to pay your fare by using the new RideMETRO app. Just scan the QR code at the bottom of the card reader. You can also use Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay.
RideMETRO cards are available for purchase at all METRO RideStores, Mini-RideStores, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs), online, and at a growing network of retailers throughout the region.
Using a RideMETRO Fare Card, credit, debit, or prepaid card: Tap the bright red fare validator.
Using the RideMETRO app: Create a virtual card in the app and scan using the QR code at any validator.
Using Apple or Google Wallet: Simply open the app on your smartphone or device to tap and pay your fare.