# DC Metro card and how to pay for Metro and buses

> Pay for DC Metro and buses with a SmarTrip card or SmarTrip in your phone wallet; as of 2026 you can also tap a contactless bank card.

The DC Metro card is called SmarTrip. You pay for Metrorail and Metrobus with a physical SmarTrip card loaded with value or with SmarTrip added to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, and you tap it at the faregates and on the bus. As of 2026, WMATA also accepts tap-to-pay with contactless credit and debit cards and phone wallets; check wmata.com for the latest options before you go.

## Ways to pay

1. **SmarTrip in your phone wallet.** Add a SmarTrip card in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, load money with your linked card, and tap your phone or watch at the gate.
2. **Physical SmarTrip card.** Buy one at station fare machines and add value with cash or a card.
3. **Contactless bank card.** Tap your card or phone at the gate or farebox and the fare is charged directly.
4. **Cash on buses.** Metrobus accepts cash but drivers can't give change, so bring the exact fare.

## How Metro fares work

Metrorail fares depend on distance and time of day, so you tap in when you enter and tap out when you leave. Make sure your card has enough value to exit; if not, use the fare machine inside the station to add more. Bus fares are flat. Transfers between bus and rail within a time window get a discount when you use the same SmarTrip or card.

## Passes

Day passes and multi-day passes are sold for SmarTrip and can be worth it if you take several rides a day. Compare the pass price with your planned trips.

## FAQ

**Can I buy DC Metro tickets online?**
There are no paper tickets. You can add a SmarTrip card and passes in your phone wallet or buy them through WMATA's official SmarTrip site and app, or simply tap a contactless bank card.

**Is there one card for Metro trains and buses in DC?**
Yes. SmarTrip works on Metrorail and Metrobus and on most local bus systems in the DC area.

**Can I use one SmarTrip card for two people?**
No. Each rider needs their own card or device, because the card must tap in and out for one person.

**Can I use my credit card on DC Metro?**
Yes. You can tap a contactless credit or debit card directly, or use it to buy and reload SmarTrip at machines and in phone wallets.

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https://inyourtravel.com/how-to-pay-for-public-transportation-in-dc/ · In Your Travel · Checked 2026-10-31