When it comes to transit, TAP is the answer.

What is TAP?

TAP is Los Angeles County's new fare collection system that replaces paper passes and frees you up from hauling around exact change. Think of your TAP card as a "transit fare wallet". You must load a pass and/or cash value onto the card in order to board using a TAP card.

Why is TAP better?

For starters, your durable plastic TAP card is more secure. It contains a smart chip that makes it possible to get free balance protection. Another advantage of using a TAP card is that it always deducts only the exact fare amount – you never have to scramble for exact change or overpay to board. The technology behind the TAP card also makes it easier to connect with other municipal transit systems. Someday soon, your TAP card will entitle you to more than a convenient way to pay your bus or rail fare. We're working to bring you special rewards programs like discounts from area merchants, prizes and other incentives.

Where is my TAP card accepted?

Your TAP card works on Culver CityBus, Santa Clarita Transit, Norwalk Transit, Foothill Transit, on all Metro bus and rail lines, and on a variety of municipal lines. Over the next two years, most municipal lines will accept TAP as well. TAP can store different types of passes, zone stamps and an account balance to make travel easy for all riders throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

How do I use TAP?

It's easy. Simply tap your card on a bus or rail station validator. A "beep" and message will show your card is valid. You are now free to board the bus or train. If the card is invalid, please add value or a pass to the card before boarding.

Where can I get a TAP card?

You can purchase your TAP card online or at a TAP Sales Location. Remember to load a pass or establish a positive cash account balance on your TAP card in order for it to be valid for travel.

How do I add another pass and/or value to my TAP card?

You can purchases passes online. Passes are also available at TAP Sales Locations.

What if I don't tap my card on the TAP target?

Any time you ride, you must tap your card. Fare inspectors will have card readers, so you may be cited for fare evasion if you fail to tap. Remember, a pass loaded on your TAP card gives you unlimited rides, just like your paper pass did. So tap it every time.

Can I allow others to use my TAP?

No. Only you are authorized to use the TAP card assigned to you.

How do I use TAP to transfer to other municipal lines?

After using your TAP card to board a Metro bus or other participating municipal line, pay the bus operator the cash fee for a Metro-to-Muni transfer, and use the paper transfer slip or transfer that is loaded onto your TAP card (check with your local municipal line for transfer details) for local connecting service.

How do I transfer from a municipal line to Metro?

Simply tap when you board. Your TAP card is valid on any bus or train operated by Metro as long as a valid Metro pass is loaded on your TAP card.

Do I need to tap every time I change rail lines?

Yes, when transferring from one rail line to another you are required to tap before boarding the next rail line.

What is Balance Protection?

Balance Protection is a free program that lets you replace a lost or stolen TAP card with its remaining balance or pass information for a $5 fee. You must sign up for Balance Protection to activate it on your card.

How do I sign up for Balance Protection?

If you bought your TAP card online, you are already enrolled. To sign up for balance protection, call 1.866.TAPTOGO or sign up online.

What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?

Report it online or call 1.866.TAPTOGO. If you are signed up for Balance Protection, we will restore your card balance and/or pass information and mail you a new card for a $5 fee. Unfortunately, if you are not signed up for Balance Protection, we can't replace your card.

How should I care for my TAP card?

Treat it like a credit or debit card. Do not bend, puncture, wash or leave the card in the sun.

Can my card demagnetize in my wallet if it is next to my credit cards?

No. You can keep your TAP card with your other credit cards.

How long will my TAP card last?

The TAP card itself is designed to last about 3 years; eventually, you'll need a replacement card.

What are the terms and conditions for using my TAP card?

Your first use of the TAP card signifies your acceptance of the terms and conditions listed in this TAP Cardholder License Agreement.

Where can I go to get the latest news about TAP, and the many funding, policy and planning issues surrounding the program's ongoing development?

Visit The Source, Metro's new site dedicated to sharing the latest agency news and views on Los Angeles transit.