The Rapid Introduces Contactless Payment System in Michigan

The Rapid announced it will expand fare payment methods in Michigan to now include contactless payments, in addition to cash, tickets, and Wave cards that are already offered.

Riders can tap and ride across 27 fixed routes, two BRT lines, and six on-demand vehicles using their contactless cards or devices for easier access to its services, according to The Rapid's news release.

Customers will be able to use Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards that have the contactless symbol or chip for tapping. They will also have the option to pay with their mobile phones or smartwatches using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.

“We’ve been asked for additional convenient payment options by our customers. We are proud to be able to provide a new flexible payment type that preserves our daily fare-capping equity,” said Deb Prato, CEO of The Rapid. 

This new form of payment will include transfers and daily fare capping, ensuring customers never pay more than $3.50 per day.

Customers can tap their card or device at the payment validator, with no need to enter any PIN code. The same card or device must be used for each trip during that day to earn the daily fare capping. Even if the mobile wallet or smartwatch is a digital version of the physical card, switching between these options will not allow the system to cap fares.

Riders will also be able to securely check their previous trips and payment history by visiting the Contactless page.