Can I use Apple pay on TTC?

Tap and Go Toronto: Using Apple Pay with PRESTO on the TTC

For Toronto residents and visitors alike, navigating the city’s extensive transit system just got a whole lot easier. Gone are the days of fumbling for tokens, purchasing physical PRESTO cards, or worrying about topping up at a kiosk. Apple users can now breeze through fare gates and onto buses simply by tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch at PRESTO readers.

The integration of PRESTO with Apple Pay is a game-changer for daily commutes and spontaneous city explorations. Instead of juggling multiple cards or apps, you can now manage your transit fare directly within your Apple Wallet. This means instant access to your PRESTO balance, a simplified way to add funds, and a streamlined travel experience.

How it Works:

The process is remarkably straightforward. You’ll need a PRESTO card loaded into your Apple Wallet. This isn’t simply mirroring your physical card; it’s creating a virtual PRESTO card that lives securely within your device.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
2. Tap the “+” button to add a new card.
3. Select “Transit Card” and then choose “PRESTO.”
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer an existing physical PRESTO card to your Apple Wallet or create a new one.
5. Once added, you can manage your card balance and add funds directly within the Wallet app.

Benefits Beyond Convenience:

While convenience is undoubtedly the main draw, the benefits extend further. Using Apple Pay with PRESTO offers:

• Security: Apple Pay utilizes advanced security features like Face ID, Touch ID, and device-specific numbers, ensuring your payment information remains private and protected.
• Accessibility: For those with mobility issues or visual impairments, tapping a device is often easier than handling physical cards.
• Reduced Contact: In a post-pandemic world, contactless payment options offer an added layer of safety and hygiene.
• Real-time Tracking: The Wallet app provides a clear record of your PRESTO transactions, allowing you to easily track your spending and usage patterns.

Beyond the TTC:

The beauty of this integration isn’t limited to the Toronto Transit Commission. Your PRESTO card in Apple Wallet is also valid on other participating transit agencies throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, including:

• GO Transit
• Brampton Transit
• MiWay (Mississauga)
• York Region Transit (YRT/Viva)
• Hamilton Street Railway (HSR)

This makes it incredibly convenient for exploring the entire region without having to worry about different payment methods or purchasing separate tickets.

A Smart Step Forward:

The introduction of PRESTO with Apple Pay is a welcome and progressive step towards a more efficient and user-friendly transit experience in Toronto and the surrounding areas. It leverages the technology that millions already carry in their pockets to simplify daily commutes and encourage greater use of public transportation. So, ditch the plastic and embrace the ease of tapping your way around town!