Best Ways to Pay and Price CTA Fares

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CTA Fare Prices and Payment Methods

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers several ways to pay for fares, providing flexibility and convenience for riders. Here are the best ways to pay and price CTA fares:

Ventra Card

The Ventra Card is a reloadable fare payment card that can be used on CTA buses and trains. You can buy a new Ventra Card from any ‘L’ station or over the counter at hundreds of Ventra retailers around town, including drugstores, neighborhood convenience stores, gas stations, and currency exchanges. You can also add fare value or passes to your card’s transit account at these locations, online, in the Ventra app, or over the phone if you register your card. Ventra Cards can be used for up to seven people at once, but note that passes only cover the first rider on your card, so be sure to load value to cover the fares of anyone else you wish to pay for.

Ventra Tickets

Ventra Tickets are disposable tickets meant for limited use. You can buy disposable paper Single-Ride and 1-Day tickets at vending machines located in every ‘L’ station.

What is the difference between a Ventra Card and a Ventra Ticket?

The main difference between a Ventra Card and a Ventra Ticket is that the Ventra Card is a reusable, reloadable card that can store both transit value and passes, while the Ventra Ticket is a disposable, single-use ticket.

Cash and Coins

On the bus, you can pay for a one-way fare in cash. Exact change is required as no change is given. Buses accept $1 bills and most coins (no half-dollars). However, transfers are not available when paying in cash on the bus. If you need to transfer, use a Ventra Card or Ticket.

Cash Pricing

As of 2013, cash fare for buses is $2.25 per ride for adults and $.75 to $1.10 for kids 7-11. Please check the CTA’s official website for the most current fare information.

Mobile Pay Apps and Contactless Bankcards

You can use mobile pay apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless bankcards to pay for your fare. Ventra Cards can now be added to Google Pay for easy, contactless payments. Any contactless form of payment works, including tap-to-pay credit cards.

Unlimited-Ride Passes for CTA Fares

One of the most popular options for CTA fares is the unlimited-ride passes. These passes allow unlimited rides on all CTA buses and trains for 1-Day, 3-day, 7-day, or 30-day periods. You can activate these passes with the first use, making them incredibly convenient for regular commuters.

To utilize the unlimited-ride passes, you can load them onto a Ventra Card or your contactless bank card. Ventra Vending Machines and Ventra retailers can load these passes onto your card. you can also load passes online, by phone, or at select retail locations.

If you don’t have a Ventra Card or contactless bankcard, don’t worry! You can easily purchase a new Ventra Card for just $5. And here’s the best part – if you register your card within 90 days, the $5 fee is immediately refunded to your Transit Account. It’s a win-win situation!

Disposable 1-Day Ventra Tickets are another option for unlimited riding. These tickets, valid for 24 hours, can be purchased at Ventra Vending Machines or online, providing flexibility for occasional travelers.

Key Takeaways:

  • CTA offers unlimited-ride passes for 1-day, 3-day, 7-day, or 30-day periods.
  • Passes can be loaded onto a Ventra Card or contactless bankcard.
  • New Ventra Cards can be purchased for $5 and are refundable if registered within 90 days.
  • Disposable 1-Day Ventra Tickets are available for occasional travelers.
  • Passes and tickets can be purchased at Ventra Vending Machines or online.

To take advantage of these passes, you can load them onto a Ventra Card or your contactless bankcard. The process is simple and can be done at various locations throughout the city. Ventra Vending Machines, online platforms, phone services, and hundreds of retail locations all provide options for loading these passes onto your preferred payment method.

If you don’t already have a Ventra Card or contactless bank card, don’t worry! You can easily purchase a new Ventra Card for just $5. The best part is that this fee is immediately refunded to your Transit Account if you register the card within 90 days of purchase. This means you can start saving on your CTA fares right away.

Unlimited-Ride Pass Options Price
1-Day Pass $10
3-Day Pass $20
7-Day Pass $28
30-Day Pass $105

For those who prefer a more flexible option, disposable 1-Day Ventra Tickets are available. These tickets provide unlimited riding for 24 hours and can be purchased at Ventra Vending Machines or online.

With unlimited ride passes, you can explore the wonders of Chicago without worrying about individual fares. Plan your trips, load your passes, and enjoy the convenience and savings of these CTA fare options.

Recap: CTA Fare Payment Options and Service Updates

When it comes to paying for your CTA fares, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has made it more convenient than ever. In addition to traditional payment methods, the CTA now offers a range of modern options to suit your needs.

One of the newest and most convenient ways to pay is through the Ventra app. This handy app allows you to manage your Ventra account, check your balance, and plan your trips using the integrated Google Maps tool. Download the app, create an account, and you’re ready to go!

The CTA also accepts compatible credit and debit cards for those who prefer contactless payments. There is no need to carry around another card or worry about running out of funds on your Ventra account. Tap your card on the reader when boarding, and you’re good to go.

As the CTA continues to improve its services, it is important to stay updated on any changes or disruptions. The CTA provides regular service updates, alerts, and guidelines for customers. You can subscribe to CTA Updates to receive the latest information in your inbox. You can also call the CTA or visit their website for more details and assistance.

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