METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Calif.'s OCTA set to implement mobile ticketing systemwide

The OC Bus app, which is available on iPhone and Android devices, launched last year and has quickly gained popularity among OC Bus riders, who have downloaded the app more than 76,000 times.

February 12, 2018
Calif.'s OCTA set to implement mobile ticketing systemwide

In addition to launching the mobile readers, seven routes will be changed as part of OCTA’s ongoing efforts through OC Bus 360° to provide more efficient and effective service.

OCTA

2 min to read


In addition to launching the mobile readers, seven routes will be changed as part of OCTA’s ongoing efforts through OC Bus 360° to provide more efficient and effective service. OCTA

Boarding a bus in Orange County, Calif., will get easier when the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) fully implements mobile ticketing on its fleet systemwide, with its partners INIT and moovel North America.

Riders who purchase bus fares via the OC Bus app on their smartphone or other mobile device will now be able to call up a QR code and quickly scan it on the onboard reader. Previously, coach operators had to review the screen and validate each boarding, which could slow down the boarding process.

Ad Loading...

The OC Bus app, which is available on iPhone and Android devices, launched last year and has quickly gained popularity among OC Bus riders, who have downloaded the app more than 76,000 times. To date, approximately 7% of total fare revenue is collected via the OC Bus app, which is more than double the average among the nation’s transit agencies.

In addition to launching the mobile readers, seven routes will be changed as part of OCTA’s ongoing efforts through OC Bus 360° to provide more efficient and effective service.

These efforts during the past two years have resulted in ridership increases of nearly 20% in areas where service improvements have been made. OC Bus 360° OCTA has slowed the trend of declining transit ridership, which has been experienced throughout Southern California. The effort has focused on sustaining ridership and improving productivity by reallocating service to where the demand is heaviest through the core of the county. Riders have seen more frequent service and travel times reduced through limited-stop bus service.

The February changes, which take effect Sunday, will include later service in some areas and increased service that will make it easier for riders to reach important work and entertainment destinations.

In addition, OCTA is introducing separate passes for senior and disabled passengers, which previously had been combined as a single pass, to better serve the distinct rider groups.

Ad Loading...

These changes were approved by the OCTA board following extensive outreach to riders and the larger community, including four public meetings to discuss the proposed changes and responding to public input.

More Technology

A screenshot of a Clever Devices product
Technologyby StaffApril 2, 2026

Hitachi Rail Strikes Deal to Acquire Clever Devices

The proposed acquisition of a company with deep digital expertise and expected 2026 revenues of over $220 million marks a significant step in Hitachi Rail’s strategy to operate as a leading global digital mobility player, the company said.

Read More →
A white, blue, and black graphic with a black and white image of hands tapping a fare card and text reading "Transit Fare Systems Reimagined."
Technologyby Elora HaynesApril 1, 2026

Why Transit Agencies Are Rethinking the Farebox, and the Technology Behind It

The farebox is no longer just a payment machine. Learn how agencies are using new tech and pricing strategies to rethink how riders pay for transit.

Read More →
DART bus approaching waiting passengers
Technologyby StaffMarch 30, 2026

DART Approves Major Investment to Upgrade Bus Stop Amenities

The board authorized a five-year contract, with two one-year options, to Tolar Manufacturing Company Inc., for the fabrication and installation of upgraded passenger amenities at bus stops across the DART Service Area.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Coach USA, Samsara cover shot
Technologyby Alex RomanMarch 30, 2026

How Coach USA Is Using AI to Prevent Bus Accidents

As motorcoaches navigate increasingly congested urban corridors filled with pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, and distracted drivers, safety leaders across the industry are confronting a growing challenge: visibility.

Read More →
A Houston automated people mover manufactured by Alstom.
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 26, 2026

Biz Briefs: Alstom in Houston, DATTCO Makes Acquisition, and More

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.

Read More →
A screenshot of ZeroEyes AI gun detection technology.
Railby Staff and News ReportsMarch 24, 2026

ZeroEyes Launches ZeroLink to Expand AI Gun Detection Beyond Traditional Networks

New edge-based solution enables real-time threat detection and situational awareness in remote, mobile, and infrastructure-limited environments.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Opening text art for METRO's Product Roundup
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 23, 2026

Product Roundup: Transportation Software and More

In this product roundup, METRO highlights transit software platforms designed to optimize scheduling; harness actionable data; and support flexible, on-demand operations.

Read More →
A Go Durham bus
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 20, 2026

TSI Delivers North Carolina Refurbs, Expanded SilverRide Partnerships Highlight Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
A Chicago Metra train on rail tracks
Technologyby StaffMarch 20, 2026

Chicago's Metra to Launch Fare Collection Tech Pilot

A major goal of the pilot, which begins in April, is to test the speed, functionality, and durability of new handheld devices to scan Ventra and paper tickets.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
An ABQ RIDE bus going through a Westmatic wash system.
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsMarch 16, 2026

Biz Briefs: Westmatic in Albuquerque, New Fare Payment Systems, and More

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from suppliers including Alstom, Modeshift, and more.

Read More →