Managing passes

The Monthly Unlimited Pass covers unlimited rides on rail and bus for one calendar month, up to a maximum fare level.

Learn more about pass options

When does my pass activate?

Passes start automatically and are active for one calendar month based on the date of purchase.

• If purchased before the 15th day of the month, the pass starts when the card is tapped at a rail station and is valid for the remainder of that month.
• If purchased after the 15th day of the month, the pass is valid for the following month, starting on the first day of the month.

If Auto Reload is selected at checkout, the pass automatically renews each month.

What happens if I make a trip above my selected fare level?

You pay the difference using Stored Value on your Smart Trip card.

If you do not have enough Stored Value, you must add money at the exit Fare Vending Machine before you exit. To ensure you are covered, you can sign up for Stored Value Auto Reload.

What if I lose my Smart Trip card containing my Monthly Unlimited Pass?

Log in to your account, select the card, and follow the prompts to report a lost or damaged card, or call 888‑SMARTRIP (888‑762‑7874) for assistance, Monday through Friday, 7:00 am – 8:00 pm.

A prorated refund will be applied to your card as Stored Value.

Auto Reload and passes

Will I be charged if I have Auto Reload turned on for my pass?

You will not be charged for a pass until it is loaded onto your Smart Trip card.

Passes are loaded onto your Smart Trip card when the card is tapped at a Fare Vending Machine, a rail fare gate, or a bus farebox.

Passes are loaded onto your Smart Trip card in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet when you tap your mobile device, Apple Watch, or Android device at a Fare Vending Machine, a rail fare gate, or a bus farebox.

Should I cancel my Auto Reload?

If you do not plan to use Metro Rail or Metro Bus, you do not need to cancel Auto Reload. The pass will not load unless you tap your card in the system, and you will not be charged if you do not tap your card.

I canceled my Auto Reload online. Do I need to tap my Smart Trip card?

No. Your Auto Reload cancellation has been processed, and you will receive a confirmation email. No tap is required.

When should I reactivate my Auto Reload?

Reactivate Auto Reload when your commute returns to normal.

If you are unable to get a full month’s use of the Monthly Unlimited Pass, wait to reinstate your pass until the following month. Stored Value funds can be used to purchase fares in the interim.

Passes and Smart Benefits

How do I use Smart Benefits to purchase a Monthly Unlimited Pass?

Contact your employer’s transit benefits administrator before your Smart Benefits order deadline and ask to have your benefits allocated to the transit pass benefit.

On the first day of the following month, log in to your Smart Trip account and follow the instructions on page 2 of the transit pass benefit overview.

Sign up for Auto Reload to ensure your pass is ready for your first trip each month.

I’m buying a pass with Smart Benefits. Why do I need a credit or debit card?

A credit or debit card is required to cover purchases if Smart Benefits funds are insufficient. The card will only be charged if you do not have enough Smart Benefits funds to cover an Auto Reload pass purchase.

If I buy the Monthly Unlimited Pass with Smart Benefits and make a trip above my selected fare level, how is the difference paid?

Any additional fare is paid using your transit benefits purse, if applicable, or Stored Value.

When will I be charged for a Monthly Unlimited Pass when using Auto Reload with Smart Benefits?

Auto Reload transactions are generated three days before the start of the month, but you will not be charged until your benefits become available on the first day of the month.