Adding value to SmarTrip is as easy as using it.

Go to any Metro station and select a Passes/ Farecards machine to add value to your SmarTrip card by:

1. Touch your SmarTrip card to the circular target and follow the prompts.

2. Insert a) money, b) a used farecard or Metrochek worth $7 or less or c) an unused Metrochek or farecard of any value. Each one requires a separate transaction. You may also use your Visa, MasterCard, Discover or ATM card to add value to your SmarTrip card at any Passes/Farecards machine.

3. Press the plus (+) or minus (-) button until the amount displayed is the new value you want your SmarTrip card to have. The added value cannot be less than the trade-in value of the Metrochek or farecard.

4. Touch the SmarTrip card to the circular target a final time. This updates the card and shows the new balance.

Adding value using a Metrobus farebox

1. Push the ADD VALUE button.

2. Touch your card to the target

3. Put in your money: any coin (except pennies), $1, $5, $10, $20 bills.

4. Touch your card again. The value is now loaded on your card.

5. Touch your card a final time. The fare for your ride is now deducted from your card.