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How to Use Contactless Payment Options

Image of hands holding different payment options in front of the validator


Pay your fare instantly with a contactless credit or debit card, smartphone, or smart device. Just tap and ride.

Contactless payment makes boarding faster and easier — no app or cash required.

Pay your fare
How Contactless Payment Works
FAQs

What are the MCTS Fares?

Adult Regular Fare

For riders ages 12–64.
Umo App Icon
WisGo Card Icon
Contactless Payments Icon
Cash Icon
$275 per rideFare Capping
$8.25 Daily
$33 Weekly
$99 Monthly

 

Reduced Fare

For riders 65+ & ages 6-11 or with a qualifying disability. Children 5 and under ride free.
Umo App Icon
Reduced Fare Icon
Contactless Payments Icon
Cash Icon
$125 per rideFare Capping
$4 Daily
$16.50 Weekly
$49.50 Monthly

*Riders can still pay with cash but they will not get the benefits of fare capping or transfers

Click here to apply for Reduced Fare

How Contactless Payment Works

  1. When you board the bus, look for the fare validator near the driver.

  2. Tap your contactless credit or debit card, phone, or smart device on the validator. For a clear, single transaction, remove your card from your wallet and tap it directly on the validator.

  3. Wait for the confirmation screen and take your seat.

Your fare will be automatically charged to the card or payment method you tapped.

What can I use to tap and pay?

You can pay with most devices that support tap-to-pay technology, including:

  • Contactless credit or debit cards

  • Smartphones using mobile wallets

  • Smartwatches or other smart devices

  • Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay

These payment methods work the same way they do at stores that accept tap-to-pay.

Are transfers included when I tap to pay?

Yes. When you tap to pay, your fare automatically includes a transfer window, allowing you to continue your trip without paying again during that time.

Just make sure you tap the same card or device each time you board.

What tips can help make tapping easier?

For a smooth tap:

  • Hold your card or device flat against the validator.

  • Wait for the confirmation screen before removing it.

  • If using a phone or smartwatch, open or wake your mobile wallet before tapping.

Do I need to use the same card/device every time?

Yes. Always tap with the same card or device throughout your trip.

If you tap with a different card or device, the system will treat it as a new fare.

Do I need to download an app to pay this way?

No. No app is required.

Contactless payment is a great option if you:

  • Ride occasionally

  • Don’t want to download an app

  • Prefer paying directly with your card or phone

Just tap when you board and you’re ready to ride.

What types of credit or debit cards can I use?

You can tap and pay using most contactless credit or debit cards from major card networks, including:

  • Visa

  • Mastercard

  • American Express

  • Discover

Your card must have contactless (tap-to-pay) capability, usually shown by the contactless symbol (four curved lines).

You can also use these cards through mobile wallets, like Apple Pay or Google Pay, on supported smartphones and smart devices.

✅ Tip: If your card does not have the contactless symbol, it may not work for tap-to-pay on the bus.

What if I have multiple contactless cards?

You must remove your card from your physical wallet when tapping at a validator. If you tap your wallet, you will be declined.

Can I get fare capping with contactless payment?

Yes, riders must use the same payment method to qualify for fare capping.

For example, if you have a credit card saved in the Umo app but then tap that same card directly on a validator, those are treated as two different payment methods. As a result, you would not qualify for fare capping.

To ensure you receive fare capping benefits, choose one payment method, either the app or tapping your card, and use it consistently for all trips.