Fast Fare Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Fast Fare Work?

• Pick up a Fast Fare smartcard at Metro, all Madison libraries, or through the mail.
• Load money on your card at Metro, a sales outlet or by creating an online account.
• Tap your card on the new fare readers - both on BRT and local route buses.

Do I Need to Use a Phone or Computer to Use the New System?

No, using a phone or computer to access an online account is not required. You can still pick up a reloadable Fast Fare card and load money into an account at Metro Transit, a sales outlet, or at ticket vending machines at BRT stations.

What is Fare Capping?

When an adult rider taps their Fast Fare card on the bus, the system charges a single ride fare of $2. The same adult continues to ride and taps every time they board.

Once the system reads that this card hit the daily “cap” price of $5, it will no longer charge them for the rest of the day.

That same rider then continues to ride through the week and tap every time they board. When the system reads that the rider reaches the weekly cap of $16.25, rides will be free for the rest of the week.  

The most a regular adult fare will be on any day is $5, the most in any week is $16.25, and the most in a month is $65.00.

Metro’s new adult pricing is below.

What About Reduced Fares?

Metro has just one reduced fare cap for youth, seniors, those with disabilities, and those with low incomes.  

Your accounts and fare capping work the same as any other rider, just with a lower cost per tap.

How to Register for Half-Price Fares

How Do Transfers Work?

Transfers are free for two hours. Tap your card every time you ride. Your account will only be charged after your 2-hour transfer has expired.

Can I Pay With a Credit Card on the Bus?

Yes! Adult fare users can board all buses with a contactless credit card or device using Google, Apple or Samsung wallets. You'll receive the same the same Fast Fare multiple-ride discounts.

Can I Use Cash?

Yes. You can pay with exact cash when boarding at any regular Metro stop for a local route.

However, if you are boarding at a BRT station, you’ll need to buy a ticket or 1-day pass with cash at the ticket vending machine before boarding.

Cash will not be accepted directly on buses at BRT stations.

How Do Passes from Universities, Schools and Employers Work?

Each program varies, but yes these passes are still distributed by your organization.

Please note that Fast Fare cards will only be given to new employees/students, or when cards are lost or stolen.

Replacement fees may apply depending on your program.

Where Can I Pick Up a Fast Fare Card?

Pick up at Metro Transit (1245 E. Washington Ave.), all Madison libraries, or email mymetrobus@cityofmadison.com to receive one by mail.

What Can I Purchase at the BRT Station Vending Machines?

You can buy a single ride ticket or a 1-day pass. (Due to not being able to verify reduced fare eligibility, only standard adult-priced tickets or 1-ride passes are available to purchase at these machines.)

However, you can reload a Fast Fare card including all reduced fares at the vending machines. Machines have instructions in English and Spanish, and accept cash, coins, and credit cards.

Can I Get Some Help?

Absolutely. Call (608) 266-4466 or email mymetrobus@cityofmadison.com.