LA Metro Launches Mobile App And Contactless Fare Payment

India-West News Desk

LOS ANGELES, CA -The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority on May 29 launched a new official mobile app and introduced contactless credit and debit fare payment across its transit system, part of a broader effort to improve access and convenience for riders across Los Angeles County.

The new fare payment system allows riders to tap contactless credit or debit cards, digital wallets or wearable devices at Metro fare gates and on bus validators. Customers can pay for their own trip and up to four additional passengers using a single payment method.

Metro said the contactless payment option is available across its network as well as on 26 transit agencies that participate in the TAP fare system. Riders must use the same payment method for each trip to receive transfer benefits and fare capping.

Alongside the payment rollout, Metro also released the Official LA Metro mobile app, which provides trip planning, real-time bus and rail information, service alerts and notifications.

The app also includes information on nearby transit amenities including restrooms, customer care centers, TAP vendors, Metro Bike Share stations and Metro Micro service zones. Metro said the app includes multilingual support and accessibility features, including screen reader compatibility.

Metro Board Chair Fernando Dutra said the new tools are intended to simplify transit use, reduce wait times and improve boarding across the system for regular riders as well as visitors.

Metro Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Wiggins said the launch is part of preparations for major international events expected in Los Angeles, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also improving everyday service for local commuters.

Metro said future app updates will add additional features including in-app fare payment, Metro Bike Share and Metro Micro booking, parking information, safety tools, live chat and customer feedback options.

For now, contactless credit and debit payment is available for full-fare riders. Metro said it plans to expand the option to reduced-fare customers in early 2027. Riders who use cash will still be able to load funds onto TAP cards.

The LA Metro app is free to download and ad-free