As of March 1, 2026, CharmCard is no longer accepted for fare payment on any MTA service. Learn about other ways to pay.

Bye Bye CharmCard. Hello CharmPass.

Modernized Fare Collection is Here!

The MTA has modernized its fare system to better serve you. We’ve replaced 20-year-old equipment with new, state-of-the-art fareboxes throughout our local bus fleet. and adding scanners to open Metro Subway faregates.

What this means for you:

  1. Faster Boarding: Get where you’re going sooner.
  2. Easy to Use: Large color displays provide clear instructions.
  3. Reliability: Newer equipment means fewer maintenance issues on your route.

Other Ways to Pay

Here are your options to pay your fare on Local Bus, Metro Subway, and Light Rail:

  1. CharmPass Mobile App (Recommended)

    CharmPass is the most convenient way to pay. It eliminates the need for physical cards or exact change.

    • 120-Minute Free Transfers: One-way fares include unlimited transfers between core services for 120 minutes.
    • Go to CharmPass to learn more.
    • Download: Available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

  2. Ticket Vending Machines (TVM)

    Located at all Metro Subway and Light Rail stations.

    • Products: Purchase single ride tickets and day, weekly, or monthly passes.
    • Payment: Machines accept cash, debit, and credit cards. Mobile wallets are not accepted.
  3. Bus Fareboxes

    Our new fareboxes continue to accept tokens and exact change for single rides, as well as cash for day passes.

    • Exact Change Required: Fareboxes do not provide change.
    • Note: Cash payments do not include the 120-minute free transfer benefit.
  4. MTA Transit Store and Walk-In Vendors

    Buy weekly and monthly passes with cash or debit/credit cards at the MTA Transit Store and authorized retailers.

    • Products Available: Weekly and monthly passes.
    • Where to Buy: Use our Vendor Locator to find a neighborhood location near you.

Have a Remaining Balance?

If you have unused funds or active passes on a physical CharmCard, any remaining value can be redeemed for another fare product. For balance transfers to other fare products or for assistance after March 1, please visit the MTA Transit Store located at 6 St. Paul Street, in person.