Depending on the location, you may or may not be able to use cash to pay for your bus fare. For example, in Honolulu, you can pay with cash, but you will not receive a paper transfer or change. Similarly, in the Puget Sound region, you can pay with cash on buses, but you must have the exact change as no refunds or change are given. On the other hand, The Rapid buses in an unspecified location offer a range of payment options, including cash, credit/debit cards, and various mobile payment methods.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Cash accepted | Yes |
Change given | No |
Contactless payments accepted | Yes |
Cards accepted | Visa, Mastercard, Discover |
Mobile payments accepted | Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay |
What You'll Learn
Cash is accepted on buses, but no change is given
Some bus companies recommend using contactless payments or purchasing fares online, as these methods can be more convenient and provide additional benefits, such as daily fare capping or transfer options. Contactless payments are made by tapping a card or device with the contactless symbol at a reader when boarding the bus. Accepted contactless payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay.
However, for those who prefer to pay in cash or do not have access to alternative payment methods, cash remains a viable option. It is worth noting that some bus companies may have specific requirements or restrictions for cash payments. For example, passengers may need to pay the full fare each time they board a new bus, and transfers may not be available when paying with cash. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the policies of your local bus service before planning your trip.
In conclusion, while cash is accepted on buses, the lack of change given means that passengers must be prepared with the exact fare. This may be an important consideration for those who rely on cash as their primary payment method. Understanding the payment options available and planning ahead can help ensure a smooth journey when riding the bus.
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Contactless payments are accepted on some buses
Contactless payments are now accepted on some buses. This includes The Rapid buses, which allow riders to pay their fare by tapping a card or device with the contactless symbol at the reader when boarding the bus. The Rapid accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay.
Riders who use contactless payments will receive a transfer and can earn daily fare capping by using the same card or device for each trip. However, customers cannot use the same card or device to pay for other riders due to the passback window.
Other bus services that accept contactless payments include Community Transit, which allows riders to use an ORCA card to pay fares and transfer seamlessly. ORCA works like cash or a pass, automatically tracking the value of different fares and transfers. Riders who use ORCA may also qualify for a free or reduced fare.
Additionally, some bus services in Honolulu accept cashless payments, as indicated by a recent comment on Reddit. While the specific bus service is not mentioned, the comment confirms that it is still possible to pay with cash, but riders will not receive a paper transfer.
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Cards and devices with contactless symbols can be tapped to pay
Cards and devices with a contactless symbol can be tapped to pay for your bus fare. This includes credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay. This payment method is often more convenient than cash as it does not require you to have the exact change, and you can earn daily fare capping by using the same card or device for each trip. Additionally, some bus services may offer incentives such as transfers when using contactless payments.
When using a card or device with a contactless symbol, simply tap it at the reader as you board the bus. The bus reader will process your payment and you will be charged the appropriate fare. It is important to note that you may need to use the same card or device for each trip to take advantage of any fare capping or transfer incentives offered by the bus service. Additionally, some bus services may have restrictions on using the same card or device to pay for multiple riders.
The availability of contactless payments as a fare option varies depending on the bus service and location. For example, The Rapid bus service in some regions accepts contactless payments with the Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay systems. In contrast, other bus services may only accept cash or specific types of passes or cards, such as the ORCA card in the Puget Sound region. It is always a good idea to check with your local bus service or transportation authority to confirm which payment methods are accepted.
Using cards and devices with contactless symbols to pay for bus fares offers a faster and more convenient alternative to cash payments. It eliminates the need to carry exact change and can provide benefits such as daily fare capping and transfers. By tapping your card or device at the reader, you can quickly and easily pay your bus fare and be on your way. This payment method is widely accepted and offers a seamless experience for riders, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a cashless transaction.
Overall, tapping cards and devices with contactless symbols is a convenient and efficient way to pay for bus fares. It simplifies the payment process, provides potential cost savings through fare capping, and offers the flexibility of using various payment systems. By adopting this payment method, bus riders can benefit from a streamlined and modern way to pay for their daily commute or occasional bus trips.
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Cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and Discover are accepted
Some bus services also offer their own payment cards, such as the ORCA card, which can be used on buses, trains, and ferries across seven major public transportation agencies. The ORCA card works like a pass, automatically tracking the value of different fares and transfers. Using an ORCA card can also save you money on trips with multiple transfers, as it gives you credit for the fare you've already paid. Similarly, The Rapid offers Wave cards, which can be purchased online or at retail locations using cash, debit, or credit card.
While cards are accepted on many bus services, it's always a good idea to carry some cash as a backup, especially if you're using a service for the first time or traveling to a new area. Additionally, some bus services may only accept cash, so it's important to be prepared.
When using cards on buses, it's important to note that you may need to use a card with your name on it. For example, The Rapid cannot accept prepaid gift cards that do not have the purchaser's name on them. It's also worth noting that some bus services may have different payment options for different fare types, such as reduced fares for seniors or passengers with disabilities.
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Mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay are also accepted
Mobile wallets have become an increasingly popular way to pay for goods and services, and this includes paying for your bus fare. Indeed, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay are now accepted on many bus services. This offers a convenient and contactless way to pay for your bus journey, without the need for cash or even a physical card.
Using a mobile wallet to pay for your bus fare is simple and quick. When boarding the bus, simply unlock your device and hold it over the card reader. The bus operator's contactless payment system will then communicate with your mobile wallet, deducting the fare in a matter of seconds. This is the same technology used in stores and restaurants, and it offers a secure and efficient way to pay.
One of the key benefits of using a mobile wallet is the convenience of having your payment method on your person at all times. You no longer need to worry about having the correct cash or change, or even carrying a physical wallet. As long as you have your mobile device, you can pay for your bus fare with ease. This is especially useful for those who may be in a rush or who do not regularly carry cash or cards.
In addition to the convenience factor, using a mobile wallet can also provide a more hygienic way to pay. Contactless payments reduce the need for physical contact with the card reader, which can help to prevent the spread of germs. This benefit has become especially important in recent years, with many people now opting for contactless payments wherever possible.
It is worth noting that while mobile wallets are widely accepted, there may be some bus services that do not yet offer this payment method. It is always a good idea to check with your local bus operator to understand their accepted payment methods before boarding. Additionally, as with any digital payment system, it is important to ensure your device is charged and that your mobile wallet is set up correctly before you need to use it.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you can use an ORCA card, a Wave card, or a contactless card or device.
An ORCA card is a payment method that works like cash or a pass, automatically tracking the value of different fares and transfers. It can be used on buses, trains, and ferries across seven major public transportation agencies.
A Wave card is a fare payment option offered by The Rapid. It can be purchased online or at the Rapid Central Station Information Center. Wave cards can be reloaded online or at self-serve ticket vending machines.