You Don’t Need a TAP Card for the BBB Anymore

Big Blue Bus riders can now pay their fare by simply tapping a contactless credit or debit card, or a mobile wallet such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, directly on the bus fare validator. The update was rolled out this week as part of a soft launch of TAP-to-Pay, a new feature from TAP, the regional fare system administered by LA Metro for transit agencies across Los Angeles County. Metro plans a broader public awareness campaign beginning May 28, with the City of Santa Monica and Big Blue Bus helping spread the word through their own communications channels.

The new system also allows a single rider to pay for up to five passengers by tapping the same card or mobile wallet once for each fare, making it easier for families and groups traveling together. Currently, contactless payments are available only for the regular adult fare, though reduced fares for seniors, riders with disabilities, and Medicare recipients are expected to be added in the future. Riders using the same physical card or digital wallet throughout their trip will continue to receive discounted interagency transfers and free transfers between Big Blue Bus routes. TAP cards, cash, and mobile tickets remain accepted.

The new program applies to Big Blue Bus’, Metro buses and the E (Expo) Line.

About The Author

Damien Newton

Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.

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