Frequently Asked Questions — Fares

You can obtain a RideMETRO Fare Card for $2 and load money on it at any of the following:

• METRO RideStore locations
• METRO Online RideStore
• Participating retailers
• Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)

3-Hour and Day Pass tickets can only be purchased from TVMs located on METRORail platforms.

More details can be found on the All About Fares page.

The RideMETRO Fare Card functions as a debit card for riding METRO. You can continually load and store money on it, and money will be deducted when you pay your fare.

Your account balance will appear on the fare validator after you've tapped to pay or transfer. You can also check it by:

• Visiting the METRO Online RideStore
• Using the RideMETRO app
• Calling METRO Customer Service at 713-635-4000
• Visiting any METRO RideStore location
• Using a Ticket Vending Machine (TVM)

You have the option to link your fare card to your RideMETRO account.

If you lose a card that is connected to a RideMETRO account, your card balance is protected, and you should report the loss immediately to Customer Service by calling 713-635-4000.

If you lose a card that is not connected to a RideMETRO account, any money you stored on the card can’t be recovered.

You can link your RideMETRO Fare Card online from the METRO Online RideStore. You'll need to create or log in to your RideMETRO account. If you are purchasing a card for the first time, make sure to select "Add to Account" during the ordering process. If you already have a card, you'll click on "My Cards" and then click "Link Card" to add your card information to your profile.

You can also register by calling Customer Service at 713-635-4000 or visiting any METRO RideStore location.

Yes. To set up autoload, you need to have your fare card linked to a RideMETRO account. If you need to set up an account and link your card, visit the METRO Online RideStore.

Once your card is linked to your account and you're signed in, you'll need to add a credit or debit card to your Payment Settings. Then you can set up an autoload to run either once a month on a certain day or when your card balance is below $5, $10 or $20. The autoload amount must be between $5 and $100. 

Autoloads will not work if the card balance has reached $500 or if you have set a monthly limit on the number of times autoloads can occur in a given month. 

If you need assistance with this process, call Customer Service at 713-635-4000.

No. METRO fare cards can only pay one fare at a time. This prevents your card from being charged twice.

Yes. You can transfer funds between fare cards that are linked to your RideMETRO account. You can access your account through the METRO Online RideStore.

If you need further assistance, contact Customer Service at 713-635-4000.

Paying your fare with a RideMETRO Fare Card entitles you to METRO’s 1-for-10 offer – you’ll be credited with one free ride for every 10 paid rides. 

Most RideMETRO Fare Cards do not expire. 

The exception is RideMETRO Discount Fare Cards issued to:

• Elementary, middle and high school students, which are valid for eight years, or through the date of high school graduation – whichever comes first.
• College, university and trades school students, which must be renewed every two years. 
• Seniors 65-69, which expire when the customer turns 70.