TAP (Transit Access Pass)
Metrolink to provide TAP-enabled tickets
Metrolink and Metro have worked collaboratively to create a Metrolink ticket that is compatible with the Metro TAP system. TAP-enabled tickets will be dispensed from Metrolink Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) to allow passage through Metro’s turnstiles leading to Metro rails lines and stations.
All Metrolink tickets with Los Angeles County destinations will be TAP-compatible, and all riders will be required to physically tap their tickets at the turnstiles and validators when transferring to a Metro Rail line. When boarding a bus, the current policy of simply showing the bus operator your Metrolink ticket will still be in effect. Tapping is not required on buses.
Metrolink riders will also experience a change in the timeframe where they can purchase monthly passes. In an additional measure to reduce fare evasion, the new Monthly Passes will only be available for purchase starting the 25th of the current month through the 5th of the new month beginning in May.
FAQs
What are Metrolink TAP enabled tickets?
A Metrolink TAP enabled ticket is a new ticket that provides customers with access through Metro Rail turnstiles and validators. All ticket types will be TAP enabled. A TAP enabled or compatible ticket has a “smart chip” and antenna embedded into the ticket. The “smart chip” technology lets you have a seamless transfer to Metro Rail. TAP enabled tickets have a TAP logo on the upper right corner to distinguish the new tickets from the old.
Where is the “smart chip” and antenna in the new Metrolink tickets and can it be damaged?
The “smart chip” and antenna are built into the paper ticket near the TAP logo on all ticket types. The signal is strongest when the TAP logo is placed on the TAP reader at a station turnstile or validator. The “smart chip” and antenna are used to unlatch the turnstile. Bending or folding the ticket may damage the “smart chip” and antenna, so please do not bend.
I went to one Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) and received one version of ticket stock and on another day, I received another, what do I do? Do I still need to TAP?
Metrolink is transitioning its ticket stock. Some of the older ticket stock will be utilized while we transition. If you have ticket stock shown below you do not need to TAP. There is no antenna in the older ticket stock. However, if you receive the new stock (identified with a TAP logo) you must TAP at the turnstile or validator.
When will the turnstiles be latched?
The latching should be complete by the Summer (2013). However, if you have a Metrolink ticket with a TAP logo in the upper right hand corner, you must tap to validate your ticket.
Why do I have to tap?
Metro installed turnstiles at many of its Metro Rail stations and is completing the process by latching them. In order for Metrolink passengers to pass through the latched turnstile, they must physically tap the “smart chip” ticket to unlatch the turnstile before walking through.
I bought a Monthly Pass before the first of the month, when can I tap it?
Monthly Pass holders should begin tapping on the first of the month that is identified on the front of the ticket. If you tap early, your Monthly Pass will unlatch the turnstiles, however, it is not a valid transfer if it does not fall within the month identified on the front of the ticket. Riding on a tapped ticket outside of the period identified on the front of the Metrolink ticket/pass is a violation of the fare policy and will result in a citation.
Why did Metrolink change the Monthly Pass sales period to the 25th through the 5th of the following month?
Metrolink changed the pass sales period to minimize opportunities for fraud and to streamline the monthly pass process. If you miss the window to purchase a Monthly Pass, please purchase a 7-day Pass.
Why is my Metrolink TAP enabled ticket not working on buses with TAP readers?
Metrolink TAP enabled tickets are not programmed to work on buses with TAP readers at this time. Please show your Metrolink ticket to the bus operator to board a Metro bus.
Can I laminate my Metrolink ticket to protect the TAP antenna?
No, do not laminate Metrolink tickets or apply excessive force. Heat from lamination damages the front surface of the ticket stock making it unreadable.
What does the new Metrolink ticket look like?
Tickets that are TAP enabled have a TAP logo on the top right corner.
My ticket does not have a TAP logo on it, is it valid?
One-Way and Round-Trip Tickets that do not have a destination in Los Angeles County will not have a TAP logo and will not be TAP enabled. This is because the TAP program is based in LA County. Non-TAP enabled tickets are valid for use between the origin and destination stations printed on the ticket.
Is this new technology costing me anything?
No, there has been no increase in cost to the passenger.
My monthly pass is valid for the current month, however, when I tap the pass on the TAP reader; it says it expires the following month?
You are only allowed to ride on Metrolink for the calendar month identified on the pass. The TAP reader may display a date beyond the current calendar month however you are not allowed to ride the Metro system beyond the last day of the calendar month printed on the pass.
My ticket is not working on the TAP readers in the station, what do I do?
Use a Gate Help Phone located near the gates in each station as an immediate remedy to get through the turnstile. This is a one-time solution and should not be relied upon for damaged Metrolink tickets. To receive a permanent solution, please visit a Metrolink ticket window at Union Station to resolve issues accessing the Metro Rail turnstiles. Gate Help Phones are in all Metro Rail stations and the line is staffed during all Metro Rail service hours.
When should I buy my ticket?
Tickets and passes are available all the time, however, Monthly Passes will only be sold on the 25th to the 5th of the following month. Monthly Passes will not be available outside of this window.
Can I purchase a Monthly Pass outside of the designated dates (25th to the 5th) if I am not traveling between station pairs in L.A. County?
No, Monthly Passes will only be available from the 25th to the 5th of the following month.
Does my Corporate Quick Card allow me to redeem my Monthly Pass from the TVM outside of the 25th to the 5th of the month?
No, Monthly Passes will only be available from the 25th to the 5th of the following month. All other tickets and passes are available at any time through the Corporate Quick Card.
Is my ticket TAP enabled if I am traveling to a destination outside of LA County?
All the Monthly, 7-Day, Weekend Passes and certain One-Way/Round Trip Tickets will have the smart chips in them. Only the One-Way/Round Trip Tickets not coming into Los Angeles area will be without.
What’s the difference between Metrolink and Metro?
Metrolink and Metro are not the same entity. While the names are similar and the agencies work together to improve mobility in Southern California, it is very important customers make the distinction when it comes to ticketing and scheduling.
Metrolink operates heavy rail commuter train service into six counties in Southern California.
Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is the transportation planner and coordinator, designer, builder and operator for one L.A. County. They operate light rail, buses and van pool throughout one of the most populous counties in the country. Metro is one of Metrolink’s five member agencies and is responsible for the majority of its funding, based on the number of miles in Los Angeles County. Their website is www.metro.net.
What is a TAP card?
All Metro passes and stored value are now sold on TAP, a durable plastic card that can be used for an extended period of time. Each TAP card has an electronic chip inside; just load the type of pass with the amount you want on your card, and the chip remembers it. Then you simply tap your card each time you board a Metro Rail or bus, and the bus farebox or rail validator looks for valid pass first. This is not valid on Metrolink trains.
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