May 20, 2025 - Transit

Metro expects to launch tap-to-pay this month

Cuneyt Dil

Metro fare gates — Photo: Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images

Metro is almost ready to debut tap-to-pay this month.

Why it matters: It's a long time coming for riders to be able to tap their credit or debit cards to pay for the train or bus, like in New York City and many other cities.

State of play: Metro staff is currently testing the process at some stations.

An official launch is on the way, Metro general manager Randy Clarke posted recently: "Stay tuned for more details later this month."
He previously said he'd like to get it up and running in time for visitors for World Pride, which has a welcome concert, featuring Shakira, on Saturday, May 31.

Context: SmarTrips will still work, and commemorative card releases will stick around.

SmarTrips can already be used via Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

What we're watching: Whether tap-to-pay will launch for buses and train stations at the same time.

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Metro expects to launch tap-to-pay this month

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