At the fare gate, Metrorail passengers can now pay for their journey using credit or debit cards, cellphones, and smartwatches.
All Metro stations started using the new “Tap.Ride.Go.” technology on Wednesday.
Passengers can now swipe their credit or debit card at the gate instead of using the fare card machine. Additionally, mobile payment systems such as Apple Pay and Google Pay can be scanned by the gates.
Tourists and infrequent users who wish to avoid using the fare card machines or obtaining SmarTrip cards will benefit from the new approach, according to Metro.
The move is made in advance of WorldPride, which is anticipated to draw up to 2 million visitors to the District.
“I think this is another really big thing for Metro right?” Metro General Manager Randy Clarke stated. “We’re modernizing very quickly on a lot of things.”
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There will still be SmarTrip cards available. Travelers will still need to utilize their SmarTrip cards even if they receive fare savings or SmartBenefits.
Metro stated that the following considerations should be made when utilizing the new payment system:
- To enter and exit the system, users must use the same card.
- Every client need a unique card. It is not possible to use the same card for more than one person on the same trip.
- To tap at the faregate, take out one card. It may charge both cards if you tap a wallet with several cards or a physical wallet on the back of a phone with a virtual credit card.
- Consumers can view transactions by going to the customer dashboard and entering their credit or debit card number.
- There won’t be any free rail-to-bus transfers until Tap. Ride. Future Go. launches will be on Metrobus fareboxes.
Later this year, contactless payment is probably going to be available on Metrobuses and parking lots.
