’Tap to Pay’ technology arrives May 22 at Metro Vancouver transit

In less than a month, transit riders will be able to tap their credit card or a digital wallet when travelling by train, bus or SeaBus in Metro Vancouver.

TransLink, the region’s transit authority, announced Monday that “Tap to Pay” will come into effect on May 22.

“Tap to Pay is all about customer convenience,” TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond said, in a news release. “Compass is great for regular riders and this initiative leverages its greater potential by adding more convenient payment options for infrequent users and travellers. With tourist season upon us, this is perfect timing for the launch of this new technology.”

Card readers at fare gates and on buses will accept contactless Visa and Mastercard, along with Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay digital wallets.

The goal is to make payment easier for visitors and infrequent transit users, rather than to replace the Compass Card. Those who use Tap to Pay will be charged an adult cash fare, while people who use their Compass Cards will continue to pay discounted rates.

Last month, TransLink launched a campaign to encourage transit users to tap their Compass Cards instead of their wallets, purses or phone cases when using fare gates and card readers. The goal is to prevent “card clash,” which could result in the wrong method of payment being charged, when Tap to Pay is active.

Visit translink.ca/taptopay for more information.