MENU
SEARCHThe upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.
The new system will replace the METRO Q Fare Card and Q Mobile Ticketing App on April 5, 2026.
Credit: Houston METRO
Houston METRO launched the new RideMETRO fare system, making it easier than ever for customers to pay, ride, and manage their trips.
The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.
“We want riding METRO to feel easy and intuitive for everyone, whether you ride with us every day or you’re stepping on board for the first time,” said METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock. “By expanding payment options and simplifying fares, we’re removing unnecessary barriers and making it faster and more convenient for people to move confidently across our region.”
With the new system in place, customers can now tap or scan to pay using several options:
RideMETRO Fare Card (physical or virtual).
Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover).
Mobile wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay).
Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) paper ticket.
Cash (accepted in buses and TVMs).
The new account-based system allows customers to:
Add funds easily.
Lock and replace lost or stolen cards.
Track reward progress.
Manage multiple cards under one account.
Access fare tools via the RideMETRO App or online portal.
METRO’s frequent rider rewards have also been updated. Customers using the RideMETRO Card will now receive one free ride after every 10 paid trips — offering faster rewards and more value.
The RideMETRO App consolidates several key tools in one place: trip planning, live bus tracking, service alerts, route information, and account management.
The new system will replace the METRO Q Fare Card and Q Mobile Ticketing App on April 5, 2026.
A phased approach to technology, in-house capabilities, and workforce investment is helping transportation leaders break the reactive cycle and build more resilient, revenue-focused operations.
Read More →
The landmark event empowers riders across six agencies in the Puget Sound region to tap-and-ride transit using a contactless credit or debit card or a mobile wallet.
Read More →
Now in its latest edition, the awards recognize forward-thinking solutions that improve safety, operational efficiency, sustainability, rider experience, and overall system performance.
Read More →
Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.
Read More →
Menard discusses how data-driven signal prioritization is improving efficiency, reliability, and ridership, while offering insight into the innovations driving the next generation of smart mobility. Together, they explore how technology and collaboration are paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future in transit.
Read More →
The pilot program showcases two companies’ technology at eight bus stops. The companies submitted their ideas through the Transit Tech Lab, which is backed by the Partnership Fund for New York City and provides an accelerated pathway for early to growth-stage companies to solve public transportation challenges for the largest transit agencies in North America.
Read More →
Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.
Read More →
To accomplish this work, the MBTA announced that four phases of temporary evening service changes will begin on February 28 and continue through April.
Read More →
From strategic partnerships to acquisitions and service expansions, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace.
Read More →
Veteran transportation innovator to lead coalition as it pushes nationwide expansion of shared autonomous mobility.
Read More →
