What is WMATA's "Tap. Ride.Go"?

• Launch Date: Officially implemented on May 28, 2025
• A new fare payment system that allows passengers to pay for Metrorail rides using contactless credit/debit cards or mobile wallets.
• With this system, riders no longer need to purchase or register a SmarTrip card-they can simply tap their contactless card or mobile device to pay.

Launch Event Highlights

• Under the leadership of WMATA CEO Randy Clarke, the launch event featured:
• Introductions and speeches by key regional officials and WMATA executives, including Tom(CMO).
• Presentations by the CEOs of the three key vendors involved in the project:

1. LittlePay: Provided the payment processing system, enabling passengers to pay fares using credit cards or mobile wallets.
2. STraffic: Responible for technical support and system integration of the faregates, ensuring smooth project operations.
3. Cubic: Played a key role in maintaining compatibility between the existing SmarTrip card system and the new contactless payment system.

• The event was also covered by major local media outlets.

Media Coverage: (16) Tap. Ride. Go! Metro launches new payment system - YouTube

Original Source: https://www.masstransitmag.com/technology/fare-collection/press-release/55293667/wmata-washington-metropolitan-area-transit-authority-wmata-customers-can-now-tap-ride-go-with-contactless-credit-debit-cards-at-metrorail-station-faregates