How to Buy a Metro Farecard/Pass - Washington DC

Metro farecards and Metro passes can be purchased from machines located in all metro stations. There are two types of farecard vending machines:
1. Blue machines labeled "Passes/Farecards"
2. Brown machines labeled "Farecards"

The Passes/Farecards machines accept both cash and credit cards, and sell both metro farecards and metro passes. If you have a SmarTrip card, you can also add money to your SmarTrip at these machines.

The Farecards machines only accept cash and sell only metro farecards. If using cash, keep in mind that the machines only return change in coins and the maximum amount that can be returned is $5.

When you are ready to purchase your metro farecard, read the instructions on the screen. On the machine, there are buttons labeled A, B, C, and buttons marked with arrows indicating up or down. Use the lettered buttons to select options on the screen. Use the arrows to select dollar values. When the transaction is complete, your metro farecard will come out through a dispenser just below the bezel.

Each person must have their own metro farecard/pass for the price of the entire trip. A metro farecard, metro pass or SmarTrip card cannot be shared with another person.

Related Information

		Metro The metropolitan subway system of Washington DC.
		Metrobus Bus complementing the service provided by Metro.
		Metro Pocket Guide Essential information for Metro riders.
		Metro Map Printable version of the Metro map.
		DC Circulator Bus connecting areas that are not accessible by Metro.