The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and North County Transit District (NCTD) achieved a significant milestone in digital fare collection: more than one million contactless fare transactions have been completed across their systems since the feature launched on the PRONTO platform on July 19.

The accomplishment marks a first for transit agencies in California, making MTS and NCTD the earliest adopters in the state to reach this level of contactless payment usage.

Milestone Reflects Growing Rider Adoption

MTS and NCTD have seen an average daily number of 5,000 contactless fare taps, demonstrating increasing public comfort with digital fare options. 

The new payment method, available across MTS buses and trolleys and NCTD’s COASTER, SPRINTER, BREEZE, and FLEX services, allows riders to board seamlessly by simply tapping a credit/debit card or mobile wallet-enabled smartphone or smartwatch on a fare validator.

“Reaching one million contactless taps in under a year shows that our riders are embracing smart, modern ways of using transit,” said Stephen Whitburn, MTS board chair. “It’s a major milestone in our efforts to make transit faster, easier, and more accessible for everyone.”

Approximately 76% of the contactless transactions have occurred on buses, suggesting the feature is widely used as a convenient alternative to cash, especially among casual or infrequent riders. 

The agencies reported that special events have also driven higher usage.

“Providing our riders with yet another easy way to pay has been great for expanding our reach,” said Shawn M. Donaghy, CEO of NCTD. “Just tap, hop on board, and ride the best transit system in the nation.”

Express Mode Enhances User Experience

MTS and NCTD introduced Apple Pay Express Mode to streamline boarding in March 2025. 

The enhancement allows riders to tap their iPhone or Apple Watch near a fare validator without unlocking their device, eliminating delays and improving boarding efficiency.

All fares paid via contactless methods include free transfers within two hours, aligning with MTS and NCTD’s efforts to simplify and unify the rider experience across services. Riders must use a unique payment method for each passenger, and fare inspectors are equipped with handheld devices to verify contactless payments onboard.

The agencies said the milestone underscores the growing role of digital infrastructure in improving access, equity, and operational efficiency across public transportation networks.