Can I pay TTC with a credit card?

Navigating the TTC: Can You Tap Your Credit Card for a Ride?

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) whisks countless commuters and tourists around Canada’s largest city every day. If you’re new to the TTC or just haven’t ridden in a while, understanding the fare payment options can feel a little daunting. One of the most common questions is: can you simply tap your credit card for a ride?

The good news is, yes, you can! The TTC has embraced modern payment methods, making it easier than ever to hop on a bus, streetcar, or subway.

Here’s a breakdown of the fare payment options available to you:

• PRESTO Card: This is the primary and often most convenient method. Load funds onto a PRESTO card and tap it on the PRESTO reader when you enter a station or board a vehicle. You get a slightly discounted fare compared to other options.
• PRESTO Ticket or Day Pass: These are single-use tickets or day passes loaded onto a PRESTO card. These are useful for infrequent riders or visitors.
• Exact Cash: A classic method, but be warned: you must have the exact fare amount. Operators on buses and streetcars do not carry change or sell fares. This is generally the least convenient option.
• Debit/Credit Card: This is where it gets convenient. You can tap your physical debit or credit card (including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) directly on the PRESTO reader at the entrance of a subway station or on a bus or streetcar. You’ll be charged the adult single fare.
• Mobile Wallet: Similar to using your physical card, you can tap your mobile wallet (like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay) linked to your debit or credit card.

Important Considerations for Credit/Debit Card Payments:

• Adult Fare Only: Using your debit or credit card will automatically charge you the adult single fare. If you’re eligible for a reduced fare (e.g., senior, student), you’ll need to use a PRESTO card with the appropriate fare type loaded onto it.
• Contactless Payment: Ensure your debit or credit card is equipped with contactless payment technology (the wave symbol).
• Tapping at Both Entry and Exit: For subway rides, you must tap your card when entering the station and again when exiting. This ensures you are charged the correct fare based on the distance travelled. Failure to tap out could result in a higher fare being charged.
• Be Prepared: Operators on buses and streetcars do not sell or change fares. Have your chosen payment method ready before boarding to keep things moving smoothly.

In Conclusion:

Riding the TTC with your credit card is a breeze. It offers a quick and easy way to pay for your fare, especially if you don’t have a PRESTO card or need to top one up. Just remember the key considerations – adult fare only, contactless technology, and tapping in and out of subway stations – to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey throughout Toronto. So go ahead, tap and ride!