SmarTrip
{{Short description|Contactless transit card system used in the Washington, D.C. metro area}}
{{Use mdy dates|date= February 2020}}
{{Infobox electronic payment
| image = WMATA SmarTrip Card.jpg
| image_size =250
| name = SmarTrip
| location = Baltimore–Washington metropolitan area
| launched = {{start date and age|1999|5|18}}
| service_1 = Washington Metro, Metrobus
| service_2 = DC Circulator
| service_3 = Arlington Transit
| service_4 = CUE Bus
| service_5 = DASH Bus
| service_6 = Fairfax Connector
| service_7 = Loudoun County Transit
| service_8 = OmniRide, OmniLink, OmniMatch
| service_9 = Ride On
| service_10 = TheBus
| service_11 = Baltimore Metro Subway, Baltimore Light RailLink
| service_12 = MTA Maryland bus service
| sales_location_1 = Metro Sales Offices
| sales_location_2 = Commuter Stores
| sales_location_3 = Retail Outlets
| sales_location_4 =
| currency = USD ($300 maximum load)
| stored_value =
| credit_expiry =
| maximum_credit =
| automatic_recharge =
| unlimited_use =
| variant_1 = CharmCard
| variant_2 =
| variant_3 =
| variant_4 =
| variant_5 =
| technology_1 = Mifare Plus X
| operator = {{plainlist|
| manager = Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
| homepage = https://www.smartrip.com/
||Vendor=Cubic Transportation Systems}}
SmarTrip is a contactless stored-value smart card payment system managed by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) uses a compatible payment system called CharmCard. A reciprocity agreement between the MTA and WMATA allows either card to be used for travel on any of the participating transit systems in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Unlike traditional paper farecards or bus passes, SmarTrip/CharmCard is designed to be permanent and reloadable; the term "SmarTrip" may refer to both payment systems unless otherwise noted.
WMATA began using SmarTrip for payment on Metrorail in 1999 followed shortly by Metrobus and Metro parking lots. It was later extended to other public transit systems throughout the region. Although WMATA initially drew criticism due to the limited number of SmarTrip sales locations, distribution has expanded to local convenience stores and supermarkets. By late 2012 all Metrorail stations were equipped with SmarTrip vending machines.{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/all-metro-stations-now-have-smartrip-vending-machines/2012/11/06/8981778e-284c-11e2-b4e0-346287b7e56c_story.html |title=All Metro stations now have SmarTrip vending machines |last=Lazo |first=Luz |date=November 6, 2012 |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=September 12, 2017 |archive-date=December 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214125102/https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/all-metro-stations-now-have-smartrip-vending-machines/2012/11/06/8981778e-284c-11e2-b4e0-346287b7e56c_story.html |url-status=live }}
In October 2010, WMATA announced that it was working on a replacement card system because the company that makes SmarTrip cards had stopped producing the existing generation.{{Cite news |url=http://wamu.org/news/10/10/15/metro_board_replacing_smartrip_will_be_difficult |title=Metro Board: Replacing SmarTrip Will Be Difficult |first=David |last=Schultz |date=October 15, 2010 |publisher=WAMU |access-date=February 5, 2012 |archive-date=December 17, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217060459/http://wamu.org/news/10/10/15/metro_board_replacing_smartrip_will_be_difficult |url-status=live }} A new generation of the card with modernized chip technology was launched in 2012.{{Cite news |url=http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/transportation/2012/05/metro-get-new-cheaper-smartrip-cards-fall/663481 |title=Metro to get new, cheaper SmarTrip cards this fall |last=Weir |first=Kytja |date=May 28, 2012 |work=Washington Examiner |access-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-date=May 30, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530205823/http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/transportation/2012/05/metro-get-new-cheaper-smartrip-cards-fall/663481 |url-status=dead }} Beginning in 2021, the first-generation SmarTrip cards are being phased out as new faregates are installed that do not support the earlier technology.{{Cite web|title=Metro begins phasing out older SmarTrip cards as part of upgrades to faregates and fare payment technology {{!}} WMATA|url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-begins-phasing-out-older-SmarTrip-cards.cfm|access-date=2021-07-07|website=www.wmata.com|archive-date=July 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184828/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-begins-phasing-out-older-SmarTrip-cards.cfm|url-status=live}}
In 2014, WMATA began a pilot program with Accenture to revamp the SmarTrip payments, with the goal of an open payment system working with contactless credit cards, government IDs, new transit cards, and more. However, the pilot was terminated and the full proposal was cancelled due to lower-than-expected mobile payment adoption and budget constraints.{{Cite web|last=Repetski|first=Stephen|date=April 17, 2018 |title=Metro Reasons: Metro hopes to bring mobile and phone payments by 2019|url=https://ggwash.org/view/67294/metro-reasons-metro-hopes-to-bring-mobile-and-phone-payments-by-2019|access-date=2021-07-07|website=ggwash.org|language=en|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112030848/https://ggwash.org/view/67294/metro-reasons-metro-hopes-to-bring-mobile-and-phone-payments-by-2019|url-status=live}}
Instead, in 2018, WMATA announced that contactless mobile payments would be coming to Metro, this time through a closed system that emulates the physical smart card and works with current fare collection equipment. The reduced scope of the project lowered costs dramatically, while constraining users to loading a balance on a SmarTrip account instead of paying directly from a credit/debit card. Mobile payments through Apple Pay were added in 2020, with Google Pay support following in 2021.
Since March 6, 2016, SmarTrip cards are the only payment method accepted on Metrorail; paper farecards are no longer valid.{{Cite web |url=http://www.wmata.com/fares/paperless.cfm? |title=Paper Farecard Elimination |access-date=2016-03-04 |archive-date=December 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161224100204/https://www.wmata.com/fares/paperless.cfm |url-status=live }}
Overview
File:SmarTrip Express Lanes at Vienna.jpg station. These gates are obsolete since 2016 when fare gates started only accepting SmarTrip cards.]]
SmarTrip cards are {{cvt|3+3/8|by|2+1/8|in}}, the same size as a credit card or driver's license. The card is brought into close proximity with a circular target on the top or side of each faregate rather than inserted into a slot. Because the card has a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip inside, it does not need to be touched directly to the target, just held near it; thus the card can be scanned while still inside a wallet or purse passed over the target, affording some speed and convenience over the paper farecards which were physically inserted into a slot. Unlike some systems in which only the card number is stored on the chip and is linked to an account on a network which contains the remaining value, in this system, the remaining value is stored on the card itself, not on a network. Therefore, the card must be present to reload it, and when adding the card to a smart device, the card must remain in close proximity to the device during a process in which the data is deleted from the card and stored on the device. This means that once the card is added to a device, the physical card becomes unusable, and only one device can carry it at a time. In the Metrorail system, using the card to activate the target by will display the value remaining as the faregate opens, both when entering and exiting. On Metrobuses, the farebox will audibly beep and display the remaining value. In all cases, the appropriate fare is deducted automatically, accounting for any applicable transfers and discounts.
In an effort to reduce fraud and waste, Metro announced in October 2008 that it would be eliminating paper bus transfers effective January 4, 2009. All riders who wished to take advantage of reduced-fare transfers were required to pay using SmarTrip.{{Cite web |url=http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/faqs/preview.cfm?faqID=47 |title=Elimination of paper transfers in January 2009 FAQ |publisher=WMATA |access-date=November 19, 2008 |archive-date=March 31, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090331213144/http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/faqs/preview.cfm?faqID=47 |url-status=live }} Paper bus passes were eliminated in January 2011 and passes are now only available on SmarTrip.{{Cite press release |title=Bus passes available on SmarTrip® starting October 17 |date=October 12, 2010 |publisher=WMATA |url=http://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4686}}
For SmarTrip, pass rules are different from CharmCard. All Metrorail passes are now available on SmarTrip. These include One-Day, 7-Day, and 28-Day fast passes valid for unlimited travel on Metrorail. A 7-Day Short Trip Pass is also sold, allowing unlimited off-peak rides, and unlimited peak rides for trips costing up to $3.50, with the difference in fare deducted from the stored value on the card if necessary. CharmCard allows a maximum of two of each pass to be stored, so two day passes and two monthly passes, plus cash, can be stored on the card.
Metro also sells SmarTrip cards that are preloaded with a One-Day rail pass online for the same price as just the pass alone ($14 since July 1, 2012), including all of the commemorative SmarTrip cards issued since 2009.{{Cite web |url=https://www.wmata.com/fares/farecard-options.cfm |title=Pass Products and DC Student Fares |website=WMATA |access-date=October 7, 2013 |archive-date=January 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170126160110/https://www.wmata.com/fares/farecard-options.cfm |url-status=live }}
File:SmarTrip Vending - Metro Center 2012.jpg station.]]
Standard cards can be purchased at vending machines within all Metrorail stations, at Metro sales offices, selected retail stores, and online. The purchase price includes $2 for the card itself plus an initial fare value, which varies depending on where they are purchased: cards purchased at stations cost $10 ($2 for the card and $8 fare value), while those purchased online cost either $10 or $30 ($2 for the card and $8 or $28 fare value).{{Cite web |url=https://smartrip.wmata.com/storefront |title=Online Fare Purchases |publisher=WMATA |access-date=January 8, 2014 |archive-date=January 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105150833/https://smartrip.wmata.com/storefront |url-status=live }} The cards can be reloaded using farecard vending machines or using cash at fareboxes onboard buses. Until 2016, riders could also add value to their SmarTrip cards by trading in paper farecards (a used farecard up to $20, or an unused farecard of any value).{{Cite web |url=http://wmata.com/fares/smartrip/smartrip_qanda.cfm#add_how |title=SmarTrip® Questions & Answers |publisher=WMATA |access-date=October 3, 2013 |archive-date=October 5, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005032224/http://wmata.com/fares/smartrip/smartrip_qanda.cfm#add_how |url-status=live }} There is a difference between SmarTrip and CharmCard on the maximum value that can be stored on the card: SmarTrip can store up to $300 in value, while CharmCard can store up to $200.
SmarTrip and CharmCard have different qualifications for inter-system usage, e.g. using CharmCard on non-MTA providers, and using SmarTrip on MTA. Passes and non-cash loads (such as employee transit benefits) are stored on the card in a separate "purse" from cash loads. Purse benefits can only be used on the issuing system for that benefit, so a day pass issued by MTA on either a CharmCard or SmarTrip will only be valid on MTA, and a WMATA-issued monthly pass will not be valid on MTA even if it was loaded on a CharmCard. This does mean it is possible to have identical or different passes (like a monthly pass from one and a day pass from the other) from both WMATA and MTA simultaneously loaded on the same card. Monthly transit benefits provided by an employer will only be valid for whichever system the employer is registered with, so an employer who is registered to provide transit benefits with WMATA will only grant benefits usable on WMATA and Washington, DC-area transit providers, even if the benefits are loaded on a CharmCard. Cash loaded on either card is valid on both WMATA and MTA vehicles. This also means purse funds cannot be used for cash equivalents, so a person who is authorized for a monthly bus pass in employee benefits cannot use that benefit to pay for rail travel or a day pass.
Discounted (half-fare) cards have different rules for SmarTrip and CharmCard. SmarTrip for seniors and the disabled may only be purchased in person from a Metro agent or authorized sales office, and the person must show ID and for a disabled rider, proof of disability (either WMATA Disabled ID or Medicare card) CharmCard for seniors and disabled are only available from the MTA reduced fare office at 6 St. Paul Street in downtown Baltimore, with similar requirements (proof of age or disability). Also, while WMATA charges a $2 fee plus the amount to load in value for senior/disabled SmarTrip card, MTA merely requires at least $2 in value to be initially loaded onto a senior/disabled CharmCard; MTA waives any fee for the card.
"Exit fare" machines (used with paper farecards) previously did not accept SmarTrip, and riders with insufficient value to pay their fare were allowed to exit the system with any negative balance. This negative balance must, however, be paid before the card may be used again to enter the system. In addition, the card must contain sufficient value to pay the full fee in order to exit a Metro parking lot. Since SmarTrip owners were allowed to exit the system with an unlimited negative balance, the Metro Board had previously rejected proposals to reduce the price of SmarTrip cards from $5 down to $2.50.{{Cite web |url=http://www.tbd.com/blogs/tbd-on-foot/2010/10/metro-meeting-smartrip-issue-tabled-blue-orange-work-moves-ahead-extra-security-added-to-bus-terminals-3114.html |title=Metro meeting: SmarTrip issue tabled, Blue/Orange work moves ahead, extra security added to bus depots |last=Jamieson |first=Dave |date=October 14, 2010 |website=TBD.com |access-date=May 20, 2012 |archive-date=October 4, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004213405/http://www.tbd.com/blogs/tbd-on-foot/2010/10/metro-meeting-smartrip-issue-tabled-blue-orange-work-moves-ahead-extra-security-added-to-bus-terminals-3114.html |url-status=live }}
Starting September 1, 2012, Metro began offering $3 rebates to customers who registered their cards online after purchase. The cards still cost $5, but a $3 credit was refunded to the card five days after first use.{{Cite press release |title=Metro improving SmarTrip® cards |date=June 11, 2012 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5251 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=October 24, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181024073614/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5251 |url-status=live }} Also starting September 1, riders have been required to have a minimum balance of $1.20 on their SmarTrip cards (35¢ for half-fare senior/disabled cards) in order to enter the Metrorail system, which reduced the possible negative balance upon exit.{{Cite press release |title=SmarTrip® rebate program and minimum fare requirement goes into effect Sept. 1 |date=August 10, 2012 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5308 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522042251/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5308 |url-status=live }}
Effective October 1, 2013, the price of the card was reduced to $2, the rebate program was discontinued, and the maximum permitted negative balance upon exit was set at $1.50, with riders who would exceed this being required to use the Exitfare machines to add value to their cards.{{Cite press release |title=Metro to lower price of SmarTrip in October |date=July 25, 2013 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5547 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522042530/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5547 |url-status=live }}{{cite press release
| title = Metro changes Exitfare requirements to facilitate new lower price of SmarTrip
| url = http://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5578
| date = September 19, 2013
| publisher = WMATA
}}
SmarTrip cards comply with the ISO/IEC 14443 Type B standard.{{Cite web |url=http://www.it.iitb.ac.in/~tijo/seminar/Contactless_Pmt_Report.pdf |title=Contactless Payment and the Retail Point of Sale |date=March 2003 |publisher=Smart Card Alliance |page=9 |access-date=May 24, 2011 |archive-date=September 28, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928120247/http://www.it.iitb.ac.in/~tijo/seminar/Contactless_Pmt_Report.pdf |url-status=live }} A microchip contained within the card stores its value, as well as the rider's most recent entry and exit points, and a unique identifier. However, the unique identifier is not linked to a person's name or identity, unless one registers the card online. Registering SmarTrip cards allows riders to recover their remaining balance (minus a $5 replacement fee), should the card be lost, stolen, or damaged. The unique identifier also allows workers enrolled in the SmartBenefits program, which allows employers to subsidize employee transportation costs tax-free, to credit their monthly benefits to their cards.
The SmarTrip system was built and designed by Cubic Transportation Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of San Diego–based Cubic Corporation. As of October 2010 Cubic is reportedly no longer producing the cards.{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/16/AR2010091606462.html |title=Metro officials find obstacles embedded in SmarTrip plan |first=Ann |last=Scott Tyson |date=September 17, 2010 |access-date=October 17, 2010 |newspaper=The Washington Post |archive-date=December 1, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201144840/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/16/AR2010091606462.html |url-status=live }}
In December 2010, WMATA issued a request for proposals for a replacement system. The new payment system is expected to use federal employee badges and certain smart phones in addition to the stored value cards.{{Cite press release |title=Metro seeking next generation fare payment system |date=December 30, 2010 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4783 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522042018/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4783 |url-status=live }} In January 2014 WMATA announced that the contract for the new system was awarded to Accenture.{{Cite press release |title=Washington Metro awards Accenture major contract for new electronic fare payment system to improve customer experience |date=January 8, 2014 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5637 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522042528/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5637 |url-status=live }}
In May 2012, the transit agency announced the launch of a new generation of SmarTrips cards after the manufacturer stopped producing the earlier generation. The new cards operate and appear identical to customers except for being slightly thinner and cheaper to produce. The newer generation cards can be identified based on serial numbers beginning with "0167".
History
SmarTrip was the first contactless smart card for transit in the United States{{Cite web |url=http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post/11203/a-brief-history-of-metrorail-fare-collection/ |title=A Brief History of Metrorail Fare Collection |last=Raschke|first=Kurt |publisher=Greater Greater Washington |access-date=July 8, 2011 |archive-date=July 11, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711153344/http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post/11203/a-brief-history-of-metrorail-fare-collection/ |url-status=live }} when WMATA began selling SmarTrip cards on May 18, 1999.{{Cite web |url=http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/history.pdf |title=WMATA History |publisher=WMATA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015210314/http://wmata.com/about_metro/docs/history.pdf |archive-date=October 15, 2012 |url-status=dead |access-date=April 26, 2011 }} By 2004, 650,000 SmarTrip cards were in circulation.{{Cite web |url=http://www.smartcardalliance.org/newsletter/september_04/feature_0904.html |title=Smart Card Talk |date=September 2004 |publisher=Smart Card Alliance |access-date=April 26, 2011 |archive-date=May 25, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110525202115/http://www.smartcardalliance.org/newsletter/september_04/feature_0904.html |url-status=live }} On November 12, 2002, the first SmarTrip readers were used on Metrobuses. In May 2004, SmarTrip readers were introduced at parking garage gates. In December 2010, 1,800,000 SmarTrip cards were in use.{{cite news |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dr-gridlock/2010/12/metro_seeks_vendor_for_new_far.htm |title=Metro seeks SmarTrip replacement |last=Scott Tyson |first=Ann |date=December 30, 2010 |access-date=May 24, 2011 |newspaper=Washington Post |archive-date=November 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108010849/https://www.washingtonpost.com/error/not-found/ |url-status=dead }} In February 2011, WMATA replaced the antennas on all Metrorail faregates to improve the speed and range of its faregates' SmarTrip processing.{{Cite news |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dr-gridlock/2011/02/_metro_is_installing_new.html |title=Domes aim to make SmarTrip faster |last=Scott Tyson |first=Ann |date=February 9, 2011 |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=April 26, 2011 |archive-date=October 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011210920/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dr-gridlock/2011/02/_metro_is_installing_new.html |url-status=dead }} On September 1, 2020, Apple and WMATA enabled SmarTrip cards to be added to Apple Pay through the Wallet app.{{Cite web|title=Apple Pay With Express Transit Mode Goes Live for D.C. Metro Riders|url=https://www.macrumors.com/2020/09/01/apple-pay-express-transit-live-dc-metro-riders/|access-date=2020-09-03|website=MacRumors|date=September 2020 |language=en|archive-date=September 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200903163616/https://www.macrumors.com/2020/09/01/apple-pay-express-transit-live-dc-metro-riders/|url-status=live}} Later on June 8, 2021, Google Pay on Android devices became supported as well.{{Cite web|title=SmarTrip on Android & Google Pay {{!}} WMATA|url=https://www.wmata.com/fares/MobilePay/GooglePay.cfm|access-date=2021-06-08|website=www.wmata.com|archive-date=June 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210608154323/https://www.wmata.com/fares/MobilePay/GooglePay.cfm|url-status=live}}
Kids Ride Free
=DC One Card=
In May 2011, WMATA and the District of Columbia Department of Transportation started a pilot project to give students in the DC Public Schools "DC One Cards" which are SmarTrip compatible. The new cards serve as both a student identification card and provide reduced or free Metro fares during student commuting hours. The cards are intended to address youth behavior problems in Metrorail stations.{{Cite news |title=D.C. to test new Metro ID cards for students |last=Aratani |first=Lori |date=May 4, 2011 |newspaper=The Washington Post |page=B1}}
=SmarTrip Card=
In the summer of 2018, the DC One Card Kids Ride Free program was replaced by the SmarTrip Kids Ride Free Program due to difficulties in activating the DC One Cards. All students who live in the District of Columbia, attend a public, charter, or private school in the District of Columbia, and are between the ages of 5 and 21 are eligible for a Kids Ride Free SmarTrip Card. The Kids Ride Free Card, a normal SmarTrip card with a large silver Kids Ride Free sticker on it, allows students to ride the Washington Metro, Metrobus, and the DC Circulator for free. The DC One Card Program officially terminated on October 1, 2018.{{Cite web |url=https://ddot.dc.gov/page/school-transit-subsidy-program |title=School Transit Subsidy Program in the DC Department of Transportation |access-date=October 19, 2018 |archive-date=October 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181019205648/https://ddot.dc.gov/page/school-transit-subsidy-program |url-status=live }}
Design
On the front of the standard SmarTrip card is a stylized picture of a Metrorail car and Metrobus in front of representations of the Washington Monument, United States Capitol, and stylized versions of classical architecture found in Washington, D.C. The Metro logo appears in the bottom left. A "Senior" SmarTrip is also available that automatically calculates applicable discounted fares for senior citizens (age 65+). The design is identical to the standard SmarTrip except that the card is printed in shades of bright yellow and brown, instead of blue and green. Since the Senior SmarTrip allows for discounted fares, the card may only be purchased in person with a valid ID from a Metro sales office or authorized vendor.{{Cite web |url=https://www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/senior.cfm |title=Metro Senior SmarTrip Card |publisher=WMATA |access-date=November 21, 2008 |archive-date=December 12, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081212043100/http://www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/senior.cfm |url-status=live }}
On March 27, 2016, Metro unveiled a new SmarTrip card design, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Metrorail system opening.
Beginning November 2016, MetroAccess cards, which permit use of Metro Access Paratransit and free trips on Metrobus and Metrorail, were replaced with a special personalized SmarTrip card with the user's photograph and the Metro Access logo appearing on the front of the card. A companion SmarTrip card is included to allow a companion to also ride free along with the disabled person.
= Promotional designs =
The first two promotional SmarTrip cards were issued in 2008 to commemorate the opening of the newly built stadium of the Washington Nationals, Nationals Park. Special SmarTrip cards commemorating the inauguration of President Barack Obama were issued in January 2009 and 2013.{{Cite news|url=https://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/campaigns/administration/36945-obamas-mug-on-d-c-subway-cards-for-inauguration/|title=Obama's Mug on D.C. Subway Cards for Inauguration|last=Alarkon|first=Walter|date=November 20, 2008|work=The Hill|access-date=November 21, 2008|archive-date=June 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110622044655/http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/campaigns/administration/40683-obamas-mug-on-dc-subway-cards-for-inauguration/|url-status=live}} In July 2013, a special July 4 commemorative SmarTrip card was introduced.
In June 2014, Metro celebrated the 125th anniversary of the National Zoo by issuing commemorative SmarTrip cards featuring "popular zoo baby residents."{{Cite news|url=http://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5734/|title=Metro unveils new Smithsonian's National Zoo 125th Anniversary Limited Edition SmarTrip Cards|date=June 25, 2014|work=wmata.com|access-date=September 10, 2015}}
In July 2014, a commemorative SmarTrip card was issued to celebrate the opening of the Silver Line.{{Cite news|url=http://dcinno.streetwise.co/2014/06/30/silver-line-smartrip-cards/|title=Metro Will Celebrate the Silver Line Opening With Commemorative SmarTrip Cards|date=June 30, 2014|work=Streetwise|access-date=September 10, 2015|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126043308/http://dcinno.streetwise.co/2014/06/30/silver-line-smartrip-cards/|url-status=live}}
In March 2022, a promotional SmarTrip card was issued to celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival.{{Cite news|url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-will-boost-weekend-train-service-for-Cherry-Blossom-season.cfm|title=Metro will boost weekend train service for Cherry Blossom season|date=March 14, 2022|work=wmata.com|access-date=April 22, 2024}} Cards of different designs were also issued in 2023, 2024, and 2025.{{Cite news|url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Cherry-Blossom-Season-2023.cfm|title=Follow the blossoms and make Metro your ride during cherry blossom season|date=March 10, 2023|work=wmata.com|access-date=April 22, 2024}}{{Cite news|url=https://wmata.com/about/news/Bring-on-the-blossoms-Metro-gets-ready-for-the-petals.cfm|title=Bring on the blossoms: Metro gets ready for the petals, including over a million visitors who come for cherry blossom season|date=February 29, 2024|work=wmata.com|access-date=April 22, 2024}}{{Cite web |date=February 28, 2025 |title=Metro ready to move crowds for cherry blossom season, will celebrate with train, bus wraps and special edition SmarTrip card |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-ready-to-move-crowds-for-cherry-blossom-season.cfm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250413103523/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Metro-ready-to-move-crowds-for-cherry-blossom-season.cfm |archive-date=April 13, 2025 |access-date=April 24, 2025 |website=wmata.com}}
In January 2025, a commemorative SmarTrip card was issued to celebrate the return of pandas to the National Zoo.{{Cite web |date=January 22, 2025 |title=Celebrate new giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo with commemorative SmarTrip card |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Celebrate-new-giant-pandas-at-the-Smithsonians-National-Zoo-with-commemorative-SmarTrip-card.cfm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250415102142/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/Celebrate-new-giant-pandas-at-the-Smithsonians-National-Zoo-with-commemorative-SmarTrip-card.cfm |archive-date=April 15, 2025 |access-date=April 24, 2025 |website=wmata.com}}
Criticism
File:WMATA Farecard Machines.jpg station, equipped with SmarTrip targets.]]
An early criticism of the SmarTrip cards had been that they were only sold at suburban Metrorail stations, online, a few selected retailers, and Metro sales offices. However, in 2008, Metro reached an agreement with CVS/pharmacy to sell the cards at 187 DC-area locations in an effort to increase SmarTrip use.{{Cite web |url=http://wmata.com/board_gm/board_docs/112008_Admin4100208CVSSellSmarTrip.pdf |title=Indemnify CVS/pharmacy for selling SmarTrip Cards |publisher=WMATA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718081738/http://wmata.com/board_gm/board_docs/112008_Admin4100208CVSSellSmarTrip.pdf |archive-date=July 18, 2011 |url-status=dead |access-date=November 19, 2008}} The SmarTrip cards are also sold at area grocery store chains.{{Cite web |url=https://www.wmata.com/fares/stores.cfm |title=SmarTrip Retail Outlets: Purchase Cards and Add Value |publisher=WMATA |access-date=April 21, 2011 |archive-date=January 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170126114528/https://www.wmata.com/fares/stores.cfm |url-status=live }} In late 2012 WMATA installed SmarTrip vending machines at all Metrorail stations.
A number of SmarTrip features that were supposed to be introduced in 2005 by SmarTrip's creator, Cubic Transportation Systems, were not fully implemented until 2012.{{Cite web |url=http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/CubicReportFinal.pdf |title=Final Contract Audit Report with Recommendations |date=February 19, 2008 |publisher=WMATA |access-date=November 19, 2008 |archive-date=February 6, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090206153833/http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/CubicReportFinal.pdf |url-status=live }} Initially, riders could only add value to a SmarTrip card at Metrorail stations or by using cash while boarding a Metrobus. In November 2008, after years of delays, WMATA announced that customers would have the ability to add funds to their SmarTrip cards online by September 2009, but that deadline was missed.{{Cite web |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/board/meetings/board-pdfs/upload/110608_SmarTripupdaterev1.pdf |title=SmarTrip Program Update |date=November 6, 2008 |publisher=WMATA |access-date=November 19, 2008 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522041528/https://www.wmata.com/about/board/meetings/board-pdfs/upload/110608_SmarTripupdaterev1.pdf |url-status=live }} WMATA did launch SmarTrip's online reload feature in September 2011.{{Cite press release |title=Metro launches SmarTrip® Online Reload |date=September 22, 2011 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5042 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522041743/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5042 |url-status=live }} WMATA allowed customers to load a seven-day unlimited Metrorail pass to their SmarTrip cards in April 2012.{{Cite press release |title=Metro introduces unlimited 7-day rail pass on SmarTrip® |date=April 16, 2012 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5199 |access-date=May 21, 2018 |archive-date=October 16, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171016173317/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5199 |url-status=live }}
All trips made with a SmarTrip card, with the exception of bus transfers and passes, are charged as individual one-way fares. WMATA offers discounted rail and bus passes to customers who make several trips in one day, or many trips, or many short trips, in a seven-day period or calendar month; however, SmarTrip users must manually load each transit pass onto their SmarTrip cards or sign up for an autoload of the pass in advance. This is in contrast to the Oyster card system on the London Underground, for example, where fares are automatically capped to ensure that customers never pay more than the cost of a one-day pass each day.{{Cite web |url=http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/14837.aspx |title=Daily price capping |publisher=Transport for London |access-date=May 20, 2012 |archive-date=May 20, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120520163138/http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/14837.aspx |url-status=live }}
There have been complaints when customers' cards cease to work as a result of placing the card in proximity to metal or physically damaging the card. In such cases Metro guarantees that the fund balance on the card will be transferred to a new card. However, customers have complained that WMATA has not been processing such balance transfers promptly.{{Cite news |url=http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/traffic/metro_news/inoperable-metro-smartrip-card-causes-trouble-for-udc-student-030111 |title=Inoperable Metro SmarTrip Card Causes Trouble For UDC Student |last=Cohan |first=Stacey |date=March 2, 2011 |access-date=April 22, 2011 |publisher=Fox 5 News |archive-date=March 5, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110305223518/http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/traffic/metro_news/inoperable-metro-smartrip-card-causes-trouble-for-udc-student-030111 |url-status=live }}
=Parking=
After reports of widespread theft by employees of Metro's parking contractor, Penn Parking,{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/2004/02/26/millions-stolen-at-metro-lots/07eda69f-d0a1-480c-bf7f-d87558a66641/|title=Millions Stolen at Metro Lots|newspaper=Washington Post|date=February 26, 2004|access-date=August 16, 2021|archive-date=March 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305045035/https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/2004/02/26/millions-stolen-at-metro-lots/07eda69f-d0a1-480c-bf7f-d87558a66641/|url-status=live}} WMATA announced that as part of a new cashless parking payment system, SmarTrip would be the only way to pay for parking at Metro-operated garages and lots effective June 28, 2004. The decision prompted complaints that Metro was inconveniencing its many customers, including tourists and other infrequent users, who did not own a SmarTrip card. In April 2007, WMATA began testing the use of credit cards to pay for parking at six Metro stations, avoiding the need to pay for parking with SmarTrip cards at those stations. The sites are Anacostia on the Green Line, Shady Grove on the Red Line, Vienna and New Carrollton on the Orange Line, and Franconia-Springfield and Largo Town Center on the Blue Line.{{Cite news |url=http://www.wusa9.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=57059 |title=Metro Unveils Credit Card Parking Lot Payment Pilot Program |date=March 29, 2007 |access-date=June 13, 2007 |publisher=WUSA-TV |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927203345/http://www.wusa9.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=57059 |url-status=live }} One exit lane at each station accepts credit card payments through a reader next to the existing SmarTrip card target.{{Cite web |url=https://www.wmata.com/service/parking/ |title=Parking at Metrorail Stations |website=WMATA |access-date=December 11, 2008 |archive-date=January 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170126122702/https://www.wmata.com/service/parking/ |url-status=live }} WMATA has since announced that it will make at least one credit card exit lane available at all Metro pay-on-exit parking facilities.{{Cite press release |title=Metro installing credit card payment readers to make parking more convenient |date=November 8, 2010 |publisher=WMATA |url=https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4733 |access-date=November 19, 2010 |archive-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522111415/https://www.wmata.com/about/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4733 |url-status=live }}
Participating systems
The following is a list of transit systems that accept the SmarTrip card for payment. The Maryland Transit Administration's CharmCard uses a compatible payment system from the same manufacturer. A reciprocity agreement allows patrons to use either payment card to travel on any of the participating systems throughout the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area.{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/20/AR2010092005782.html |title=Maryland answers SmarTrip with CharmCard |last=Hosh |first=Kafia |date=September 21, 2010 |newspaper=Washington Post |location=Baltimore, Maryland |page=B8 |access-date=February 17, 2011 |archive-date=November 17, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101117193859/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/20/AR2010092005782.html |url-status=live }} However, digital SmarTrip cards stored in Apple Wallet will not work on any Baltimore MTA vehicle.{{cite web|url=https://www.wmata.com/fares/MobilePay/SmarTrip-in-Apple-Wallet-FAQs.cfm#FAQ22|title=SmarTrip in Apple Wallet FAQs|access-date=September 7, 2021|publisher=WMATA|archive-date=September 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907124741/https://www.wmata.com/fares/MobilePay/SmarTrip-in-Apple-Wallet-FAQs.cfm#FAQ22|url-status=live}}
Other area transportation
The following systems serve the Baltimore–Washington Area, but do not currently accept SmarTrip or CharmCard as payment
| class="wikitable"
!System !Transit Authority !Service Area !Service Type |
| CUE Bus***
| Local government | Fairfax, VA |Local bus |
| DC Streetcar***
|DDOT |Washington, DC |
| MARC Train**
|MTA Maryland |Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; Baltimore County, MD; Prince George's County, MD; Montgomery County, MD; Howard County, MD; Anne Arundel County, MD; Harford County, MD; Frederick County, MD; Cecil County, MD; Jefferson County, WV; Berkeley County, WV |
| Virginia Railway Express (VRE)**
|PRTC & NVTC |Washington, DC; Arlington County, VA; Alexandria, VA; Fairfax County, VA; Prince William County, VA; Spotsylvania County, VA, Manassas Park, VA; Manassas, VA; Fredericksburg, VA |Commuter rail |
| Loudoun County Local Bus
|Local government |Loudoun County |Local bus |
| Loudoun County Metro Connection*
|Local government |Loudoun County, VA |Local bus |
| Virginia Regional Transit
|Local government |Loudoun County, VA |Local bus |
| RTA of Central Maryland
|RTA |Anne Arundel County, MD; Howard County, MD; Prince George's County, MD |Local Bus |
| MTA Maryland Commuter Buses**
|MTA Maryland |Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; Baltimore County, MD; Anne Arundel County, MD; Montgomery County, MD; Prince George's County, MD; Frederick County, MD; Howard County, MD; Charles County, MD; Calvert County, MD; Harford County, MD; St. Mary's County, MD |Commuter bus |
| Charm City Circulator***
|Local Government |Baltimore, MD |Local Bus |
Transfers
| class="wikitable"
|+ Cost of bus fare using SmarTrip |
| From
! to Express BusesExpress Buses: Metrobus express routes, PRTC OmniRide, PRTC MetroDirect, Ride-On route 70, Fairfax Connector routes 393, 394, 395, 480, 599, 698, and 699. ! to PRTC routes |
|---|
| Washington Metro
|Free |$4.75 to PRTC OmniRide (full SmarTrip fare) |
| Metrobus: All local routes |Free |$2.25 |$3.50 to PRTC OmniRide |
| Arlington Transit (ART) Connect-A-Ride DASH Fairfax Connector (except routes 393, 394, 395, 480, 599, 698, and 699) Ride-On (except route 70) |Free |$2.25 |N/A |
| Fairfax Connector routes 393, 394, 395, 480, 599, 698, and 699 Ride-On route 70 Metrobus express routes PRTC OmniRide |Free |Free |N/A |
| The Bus |Free |$2.25 |N/A |
{{reflist|group="Note"}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- [http://www.smartrip.com/ SmarTrip home page]
- [http://cts.cubic.com/ Cubic Transportation Systems] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100723121300/http://cts.cubic.com/ |date=July 23, 2010 }}
{{Washington Metro}}
{{American smartcards}}
{{Good article}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Smartrip}}
Category:Fare collection systems in the United States
Category:Contactless smart cards