Using Apple Pay On Cta Buses: A Simple Guide

If you're looking to use Apple Pay to ride the CTA bus in Chicago, you're in luck! Apple Pay is accepted on CTA and Pace throughout the Chicago area. You can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to pay your fare with just a tap—no Face ID or Touch ID needed. However, it's important to note that you'll need to have a Ventra card in your Apple Wallet to use Apple Pay for transit. To do this, simply download the Ventra app, log in, and add your Ventra card. With Apple Pay, you can also conveniently add transit value to your Ventra card directly in the Ventra app. Keep in mind that Apple Pay is not just limited to the Ventra card; you can also use it with other mobile wallet apps like Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and Fitbit Pay for pay-as-you-go rides, and all of these options allow transfers. So, whether you're a local or a visitor to Chicago, using Apple Pay on the CTA bus is a fast and easy way to get around the city.

Using Apple Pay on a CTA bus without a Ventra account

It is possible to use Apple Pay on a CTA bus without a Ventra account or card. You can simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch at the turnstile to pay for your ride. Note that this will place a temporary $5 hold on your card, which will then be adjusted to the cost of a single ride.

This method does have some limitations. Firstly, you won't be able to buy passes or transfers without a Ventra account. Additionally, you will need to ensure your device is compatible with Apple Pay. For iPhones, this includes models from the iPhone 6s onwards, running the latest version of iOS. For Apple Watches, you will need a Series 1 or later, running the latest watchOS.

If you're looking to use Apple Pay for single rides without the need for a Ventra account, this is a convenient option. However, for more advanced features, such as passes and transfers, you may want to consider creating a Ventra account and linking your payment methods through the Ventra app.

For those who prefer using their phone or watch for payments, Apple Pay offers a seamless way to pay for your CTA rides without fumbling for cash or a separate transit card.

Devices compatible with Apple Pay on CTA

To use Apple Pay on the CTA, you will need a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch device.

Compatible iPhone models include those with Face ID and Touch ID (except the iPhone 5s). To check if your iPhone supports Apple Pay, identify your iPhone model.

Compatible Apple Watch models include the Apple Watch Series 1 and later. Again, to check if your Apple Watch supports Apple Pay, identify your Apple Watch model.

To use Apple Pay for transit in Chicago, you will need to download the Ventra app and add your Ventra card to your Wallet app. This will allow you to pay your fare on CTA and Pace using your iPhone or Apple Watch.

To add a Ventra card to your Wallet app, log in to the Ventra app and tap "Cards." Then, tap "Add to Apple Wallet." Ensure that you have the latest version of iOS on your iPhone.

Compatible iPhone models for the Ventra app include the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (2016), or later. For Apple Watch users, you will need an Apple Watch Series 1 or later.

How to add a Ventra card to Apple Wallet

To add a Ventra card to your Apple Wallet, you will need to make sure you have the latest version of iOS and that your device is compatible. Compatible devices include iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (2016), or later, and Apple Watch Series 1 or later.

You will also need to download the Ventra app to get started. Once you have the app, log in to your account and select the Ventra card you want to transfer. Tap 'Add to Apple Wallet'.

If you are adding a physical Ventra card to your Apple Wallet, you will need to open the Wallet app and choose a card from the list or search by location or card name. Tap 'Transfer Existing Card' and enter your card number and other required information. Place your physical card on a flat surface and rest the top of your iPhone on it until you see 'Card Added' on the screen.

You can also add a transit card directly in the Wallet app. Open the app and tap 'Transit Card' to add a new card or 'Previous Card' to add one you've had before. Choose a card from the list or search by location or name, choose an amount to put on the card, and follow the on-screen steps to confirm.

Using Apple Pay on a CTA bus with a Ventra card

If you're in Chicago and want to use Apple Pay to get around on a CTA bus, you're in luck! You can use Apple Pay with a Ventra card on CTA and Pace across the Chicago area. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Download the Ventra App

First, you'll need to download the Ventra app on your iPhone or Apple Watch. This is available on the App Store for iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (2016), or later, and Apple Watch Series 1 or later. Make sure your device is updated to the latest version of iOS or watchOS.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ventra Card

Once you have the Ventra app, log in and add your Ventra card. You can either get a new Ventra card or transfer your existing physical Ventra card to your iPhone or Apple Watch. To transfer your physical card, open the Ventra app, sign in to your account, select the card you want to transfer, and tap "Add to Apple Wallet."

Step 3: Add Transit Value or Passes

With your Ventra card set up in the app, you can add transit value or passes to it using Apple Pay. This can be done directly in the Ventra app, and you'll be able to use your iPhone or Apple Watch to pay your fare on CTA and Pace.

Step 4: Tap and Ride

When you're ready to ride the CTA bus, simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch on the scanner, and you're good to go! There's no need to use Face ID or Touch ID for this. Please note that Apple Pay with a Ventra card only works for single rides, and you won't be able to buy passes or make transfers.

That's it! Using Apple Pay with a Ventra card on a CTA bus is a convenient way to pay for your transit fares in Chicago. Remember to keep your device charged and updated to ensure a smooth riding experience.

Using Apple Pay on a CTA bus with a credit or debit card

Apple Pay is now accepted on Chicago's CTA buses and trains, making it faster and easier to pay for your transit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Apple Pay with a credit or debit card on a CTA bus:

• Device Compatibility: To use Apple Pay on a CTA bus, ensure your iPhone or Apple Watch is compatible. Compatible iPhones include iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE (2016), or later models running the latest version of iOS. For Apple Watches, you'll need Series 1 or later with the latest version of watchOS.
• Add Your Card to Apple Wallet: Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch. If you haven't already, add your credit or debit card to the Wallet app by tapping the "+" sign and following the on-screen instructions. You'll need to enter your card details and may be asked to verify the card by sending a code to your bank.
• Using Ventra App (Optional): While not necessary, you can also download the Ventra app, which is the official transit payment app for Chicago. With the Ventra app, you can add your Ventra card to Apple Wallet and use it to pay for your CTA rides. This method may offer additional features, such as managing transit passes and adding transit value.
• Tap and Ride: When boarding a CTA bus, simply hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the reader, and your default card in Apple Wallet will be charged for the ride. You don't need to authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID for this transaction. A temporary hold of $5 may be placed on your card, but it will be adjusted to the cost of a single ride.
• Using a Credit or Debit Card: If you prefer to use your physical credit or debit card with Apple Pay, you can do so by authenticating with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. Hold your card near the reader, and it will charge the appropriate fare for the CTA bus.
• Limits and Considerations: While Apple Pay offers a convenient way to pay for single rides, there are a few limitations to keep in mind. You won't be able to buy passes or make transfers using Apple Pay alone. Additionally, ensure your device is charged before your commute, as a dead phone may cause issues when trying to pay.

By following these steps, you can easily use Apple Pay with your credit or debit card on a CTA bus in Chicago. Remember to keep your device updated and charged, and you'll be on your way to a seamless transit experience.

Frequently asked questions