This new Tap2Ride contactless fare payment device is now on all SacRT buses. Photo courtesy of Sacramento Regional Transit District

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) – The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) is introducing a new, easier way for riders to pay their fares. On April 1, SacRT launched Tap2Ride, a contactless fare payment system on all buses and SacRT GO paratransit service vehicles. 

With Tap2Ride, riders can use their contactless debit or credit cards or mobile wallets to quickly and securely pay their fare when boarding. This eliminates the need for cash or paper tickets, making transit more convenient than ever before. Cash, along with all other current forms of valid fare, will continue to be accepted. 

“SacRT is committed to making transit easier and more accessible for everyone,” said Henry Li, SacRT General Manager/CEO. “Tap2Ride is a major step forward in modernizing our fare payment system, giving riders the speed and convenience they expect while improving efficiency across our network.” 

Since April 1, riders can tap their contactless Visa or Mastercard credit/debit card or mobile wallet (smartphone or watch) on Tap2Ride devices installed on all SacRT vehicles.

Phase 1 of the Tap2Ride program offers riders the benefits of daily fare capping and 90- minute free transfers between bus routes similar to Connect Card. Riders simply tap their contactless payment option to the device upon boarding the bus and the Tap2Ride system will select the best fare (single ride or daily pass) based on their travel for the day. Riders can also continue to use contactless payment at light rail station vending machines. During this phase, fare transfer benefits between bus and light rail will not be available when using Tap2Ride. 

In late 2025, SacRT will launch Phase 2 of Tap2Ride, allowing riders to transfer seamlessly between buses and light rail using the same contactless payment method, with transfer benefits applied automatically. 

“Cal-ITP is proud to partner with SacRT in making transit fare payments more convenient and accessible,” said Gillian Gillett, Chief of Caltrans’ Data and Digital Services Division and Program Manager of California Integrated Mobility. “This system enhances mobility by offering a secure, seamless way for riders to pay while ensuring those who qualify for discounts receive them automatically.” 

Eligible riders can receive a 50% discount on basic fares through Tap2Ride. Discounts are securely linked to a rider’s contactless payment card through the California Integrated Travel Project (Cal ITP) web tool, allowing for automatic fare reductions without the need for in-person verification.  Riders can apply for their discount online at benefits.calitp.org.

"Digital ID is an important component of smarter and better-connected public services,” said State Chief Information Officer and Director of the California Department of Technology Liana Bailey Crimmins. “California’s Digital ID Framework is making it easier for riders to access the benefits they’re entitled to, no paperwork and no hassle, just a giant step toward a future where digital services make life easier for everyone.” 

Tap2Ride offers a fast and easy way to pay for fares, riders simply tap their card or mobile wallet to board, eliminating the need for cash or paper tickets. The program also provides secure discount verification, allowing eligible riders to link their payment card to their discount through Cal-ITP. For added flexibility, riders can continue to use the Connect Card or ZipPass app if they prefer. All of SacRT’s current payment methods are still available, and Tap2Ride serves as an additional option for fare payment. For more information, visit sacrt.com/tap2ride.