Gateway Card
June 30, 2025 Update:
We are making changes to the Gateway Card program as we prepare to introduce a new fare collection system early next year.
- Starting Monday, June 30, 2025 you will no longer be able to load funds to your Gateway Card.
- You can use the available balance on your Gateway Card until December 31, 2025.
- Starting January 1, 2026:
- Your Gateway Card will be permanently deactivated.
- Customers with unexpired ADA Paratransit Gateway Cards can continue to present their card for free rides on MetroLink and MetroBus through the On the Way With ADA program.
- Customers with unexpired Senior/Fixed Route Reduced Fare Gateway cards can continue to present their card as proof of reduced fare eligibility.
Stay tuned for more information on new fare options and new ways to manage your tickets and passes as we continue to make progress on our new fare collection system.
Gateway Card
Gateway is Metro Transit’s smart card fare collection system. It’s a convenient, secure way to collect fares. Instead of paper passes, Gateway uses plastic smart cards – Gateway Cards – with computer chips inside that store passes (like monthlies or weeklies) or cash value (up to $100) – including discount fares.
Benefits
Easy & Convenient: You can load your Gateway Card at ticket vending machines at all MetroLink Stations and Transit Centers until June 20, 2025. The Gateway Card stores your passes, cash value, transfers and discounts (for qualified customers). Load up your card as you go – and never worry about having exact change again!
Saves Money: Through a “daily cap” function, you do not pay more than you would for a day pass, no matter how many times you ride in a day.
More secure: If you register your Gateway card, the balance will be protected if it is lost or stolen.
For questions about Gateway Cards, contact:
mygatewaycard@metrostlouis.org | 314.982.1500 (MO) | 618.274.1500 (IL)
How do I use my Gateway Card?
1. Load your card at a ticket vending machine (TVM).
2. To ride MetroBus, hold your card on the farebox until you hear a ‘ding!’
3. To ride MetroLink, hold your card on the ticket validators; a green light will flash when your fare has been successfully collected. Validators are lined up to form paid fare zones you’ll pass through prior to reaching the platform.
4. MetroLink fare enforcement team members use handheld readers to validate that your fare has been paid; present your Gateway Card when you’re asked for it.
5. Register your card so its value is protected if it’s lost or stolen.