SEPTA is launching its multi-rider feature for contactless payments, allowing customers on all modes — buses, subways, trolleys, and Regional Rail — to easily tap their credit/debit card or mobile wallet at a validator to pay for up to five riders.

Up until now, this feature was only available when using a SEPTA Key card. Expanding to contactless payments offers more convenience for groups who may not want to plan their trips, purchase a physical Key card, or pay cash for their fares, said SEPTA officials.

In addition to the added convenience for regular riders, the launch comes in time for SEPTA to welcome visitors from across the country and the world for the PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and exciting events this summer to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, said SEPTA GM Scott A. Sauer.

“Rolling out this technology is another way we are making SEPTA easier to navigate for both first-time visitors and regular riders,” he said. “With the influx of people expected to flood the system this summer, the multi-rider feature will make travel more efficient and seamless for groups heading to the sports complex and other destinations across the city and region.”

The Next Level of Contactless

SEPTA launched contactless payment technology on buses and the Metro in September 2023 and expanded it to Regional Rail last April.

According to SEPTA, contactless payment usage is up 20% from last year — representing more than 50% of bus and Metro purchases and 23% of Regional Rail single-trip purchases.

During large events, contactless use spikes by as much as 25%, officials said.

Contactless fares cost the same as Travel Wallet, with two free transfers for bus and Metro trips.