#STANDARD TAP PLUS#
#STANDARD TAP FREE#

Later innovations expanded the magnetic stripe technology for monthly and day passes. The program was dubbed the Universal Fare System, or UFS, for future implementation throughout Los Angeles County. The fare card only offered stored value, and was compatible with GFI Genfare fareboxes used by these systems. Prior to introduction of the TAP card, a magnetic stripe card called the Metrocard (not to be confused with the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority's card) was introduced in 1993 on Culver CityBus, with later expansion to Foothill Transit, Montebello Bus Lines, Norwalk Transit, and Santa Monica Big Blue Bus.

Transit agencies have been allowed to transition onto TAP at their own pace, and it is not a requirement for receiving Metro funding or participation in interagency transfer agreements.

There are some agencies in Southern California which do not (yet) accept the TAP card. For non-Metro operators, TAP cards are sold at their administrative offices, TAP website, or customer service centers. Non-Metro agencies may sell transfers on TAP cards, which can be read by Metro TAP readers. Stored value (cash purse) can be added onto the TAP card at rail ticket vending machines, retail locations, and online. Ĭurrently most operators sell passes on the TAP web site, and Metro sells monthly, weekly, and day passes at rail ticket vending machines. TAP cards expire approximately 3–10 years from purchase.

#STANDARD TAP PLUS#

Cards can also be purchased on Metro buses (since 15 September 2014) for $2 plus stored value (which works like a debit card). The card costs $2 and is only available with a fare media product (such as a day pass or stored value). The card is designed to reduce the number of transactions at Customer Service Centers. The cards may be 'recharged' in person from ticket vending machines in Metro Rail stations, TAP Vendors, at Metro Customer Service Centers or online.

#STANDARD TAP FREE#

Because Metro Rail has a mix of barrier free and faregated areas, it operates on a proof-of-payment system: as such, Metro's fare inspectors randomly check using a wireless handheld unit to make sure TAP users have validated their card. TAP readers are integrated in bus fare boxes, bus validators and standalone readers are located just outside the paid area of Metro Rail stations. The TAP card must be tapped on electronic readers to validate it when entering and transferring within the system. The TAP is a blue, or orange for reduced fare, credit-card-sized contactless stored value smart card which can hold a transit Pass or cash balance. 4.2.2 Orange County Transportation Authority.

Standard tap