Navigating The M4 Bus Payment Options

The M4 bus route is a modern public transport system that operates in the greater Bristol area and New York City. In Bristol, the M4 bus runs from Cribbs Causeway to the City Centre, serving communities in Patchway and Stoke Gifford. In New York City, the M4 bus route runs from The Cloisters to 32 St via 5th Av, Madison Av, Broadway, and Ft. Washington Av. Depending on the location, there are different payment methods for riding the M4 bus. For instance, in Bristol, tickets can be purchased using the First Bus App, Travelwest Travelcards, iPoints, and Tap On, Tap Off. On the other hand, in New York City, fares can be paid using a MetroCard, coin machine, or contactless card/digital wallet on buses with OMNY readers.

Paying with a MetroCard

If you're planning to take the M4 bus in Bristol, UK, you won't need to worry about paying with a MetroCard as this service is not available in the area. The M4 bus in Bristol is a metrobus service that operates within the Bristol Zone and accepts a variety of tickets and passes, but not the MetroCard.

However, if you're referring to the M4 bus route in New York City, then you're in luck! You can use your MetroCard to pay for your ride. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Find a MetroCard Vending Machine

Before boarding the M4 bus in NYC, look for a MetroCard vending machine at a Select Bus Service station stop. These machines are usually located on the sidewalk near the bus stop.

Step 2: Start the Transaction

Once you've located the MetroCard machine, begin the payment process by pressing the "Start" button. This will initiate the transaction and allow you to proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Insert Your MetroCard

After starting the transaction, it's time to add your payment method. Insert your MetroCard into the machine. Please note that all types of MetroCards are accepted, so you don't have to worry about having a specific type or version.

Step 4: Receive Your Receipt

Once you've inserted your MetroCard, the machine will process your payment. After a successful transaction, the machine will dispense a receipt. This receipt is crucial as it serves as proof of your payment. Make sure to take the receipt and keep it with you during your ride.

Step 5: Board the Bus

With your receipt in hand, you can now board the M4 bus. Remember, you can enter through any of the three doors. There's no need to show your receipt to the bus driver when you get on, but you must keep it with you during your trip.

Proof of Payment

While riding the M4 bus, there is a chance that an MTA inspector may ask to see your proof of payment. Make sure to have your receipt readily available. If you are unable to present a valid receipt upon request, you may be subject to a fare evasion penalty, which can result in a fine.

By following these simple steps and paying with your MetroCard, you can efficiently use the M4 bus service in New York City. Remember to keep your receipt handy, and you'll be good to go!

Paying with coins

If you are taking the M4 bus in Bristol, you can pay with coins at the First Travel shop at Bristol Bus Station. You can also pay with coins at the iPoint machines at the metrobus stops, which accept contactless NFC payments such as Apple Pay.

For those taking the M4 bus in New York City, you can pay with coins at the Coin Machine at a Select Bus Service station stop on the sidewalk before boarding the bus. You will receive a receipt as proof of payment, which you must keep during your ride as it may be requested at random by MTA inspectors. If you are in need of a transfer, you should enter through the front door of the bus, present your receipt to the bus operator, and request a transfer.

Using OMNY readers

If you are taking the M4 bus in New York City, you can pay your fare using OMNY readers on board. OMNY (One Metro New York) is a contactless fare payment system that allows you to tap and pay with your card or smart device. This method is available on select bus services and offers a faster and more convenient way to pay your fare.

To use the OMNY reader, simply tap your contactless card or device on the reader when boarding the bus. You can use a credit or debit card, as well as a digital wallet on your smartphone or smartwatch. Make sure your card or device is linked to a valid payment method before tapping.

When using the OMNY reader, you can board the bus through any door, just like when paying with a MetroCard or coins. This helps speed up the boarding process and makes your commute more efficient.

It's important to note that the OMNY system is still being rolled out across the MTA network, so not all buses may have OMNY readers installed yet. If you are boarding an M4 bus without an OMNY reader, you can use the other available payment methods, such as MetroCard or coins, at the sidewalk kiosks before boarding.

Remember to keep your proof of payment, such as a receipt or your tapped card or device, with you during your ride. MTA fare inspectors may randomly request to see your proof of payment, and not having it can result in a fare evasion summons.

Tap On, Tap Off

Here's how it works:

• Tap On: When you board the bus, simply tap your contactless card or device on the reader. This acts as your ticket, and you don't need to choose a specific ticket type in advance. Make sure to use the same card or device each time you tap on.
• Tap Off: When you disembark, tap your card or device on the reader again. This records your journey and calculates your fare.

Please note that Tap On, Tap Off is only available for adult fares. If you require a child, student, or group ticket, you can purchase these from the iPoints at bus stops or through the First Bus app.

Buying tickets with cash

Metrobus tickets can be purchased with cash, but only at the First Travel shop at Bristol Bus Station. All other tickets must be purchased before boarding the bus, and cash cannot be used to buy tickets on the bus.

Metrobus is a buy-before-you-board service, and tickets cannot be purchased on board, except when using Tap On, Tap Off. This makes boarding faster, and overall journeys quicker.

All metrobus stops have an iPoint where you can purchase tickets with a bank card or contactless NFC (such as Apple Pay). Tickets can also be purchased online from the Travelwest website, and then collected at an iPoint using the side reader (allow two hours before attempting collection).

Tickets for the metrobus follow First Bus’s fare structure, and most tickets for First Bus services can also be used on the metrobus. BristolRider tickets are also accepted.

English concessionary bus passes ('older person's' and 'disabled person's') are accepted on all metrobus services.

Frequently asked questions