The moment is finally here — Metro Transit will begin activating our next-generation fare system and automated security gates on Monday, July 6, 2026, with a first phase of 13 MetroLink stations. The step marks a significant milestone in MetroLink’s transformation into a safer, more modernized, and easier-to-use transit network.
What to Expect on Activation Day
The first phase of activation on July 6 will include 13 MetroLink stations. At the 13 stations, riders will officially experience the new Ticket Vending Machines, fare validators, and automated security gates for the first time.
To open the MetroLink security gates independently, you just need to follow three steps:
The 13 MetroLink stations in phase one include:
Be Ready for the New Fare System
Metro Transit’s new fare system will make it easier than ever to ride and get the best value. Along with automated security gate integration, the new fare system introduces new features and an additional option to manage your fare — the Ride On Smart Card.
Your Fare Tools Include:
Transit app
Recommended! The easiest way to navigate the new fare system is to download and use the Transit app. As before, you can purchase digital tickets or passes on the Transit app, which provides a QR code you can scan at a fare validator. Soon, you’ll also be able to set up Tap & Ride for a more convenient way to pay for your fare.
Ride On Smart Card
For riders who want the value of passes or new features without using an app, our new Ride On card is the answer. When you purchase a 7‑Day and 30‑Day pass, it will be loaded onto a Ride On card, which you can reuse by adding additional passes in the future. Even easier, you can add a Tap & Ride balance on a Ride On card.
Tip: If you have a Ride On card, you can link it to an account at MetroStLouis.org/RideOnAccount. By linking a Ride On card to your account, you are able to connect it to the Transit app. And if you ever lose a linked Ride On card with a balance, you can contact our sales team to transfer it to a new card.
Tickets and Passes
The ticket and pass options you’re familiar with are still available, but with a new look and minor changes. When you purchase a single-ride ticket from a TVM, it will feature a QR Code that you scan at a MetroLink validator. When you purchase a 1‑Day pass from a TVM, it comes on a card with a chip that registers when you tap a validator. Weekly and monthly passes are now 7‑Day and 30‑Day passes and come loaded on a Ride On card.
Your New Fare Features:
Tap & Ride
Available for Transit app and Ride On card
Tap & Ride is the easiest, fastest way to pay your fare. Instead of purchasing individual passes, you’ll be able to add funds to a Tap & Ride balance. Then, when boarding, you’ll simply present your phone to the validator, and it will automatically draw the appropriate fare from that balance.
Fare Capping
Available for Transit app and Ride On card
Fare capping is an automatic feature when you use Tap & Ride, making it easy to save. You no longer have to worry about whether it’s worth buying a pass for the next week or month. When you Tap & Ride, our system knows how much you’ve spent on fare and stops charging you once you’ve reached the total for a pass, so you are guaranteed the lowest fare. This is a major advantage for riders who could save money with a 7‑Day or 30‑Day Pass but can’t afford the up‑front cost.
FAQs
Note: This is still a work in progress – we’ll be adding more answers soon!
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