TransLink riders can pay with credit cards and mobile payment apps starting today

May 22 2018, 11:35 pm

After its initial introduction in early March, the wait is finally over. TransLink users can now officially use their credit cards and smartphones to make payments on the Compass system.

Compass card readers will now accept contactless Visa or Mastercard credit cards, as well as smartphone mobile wallets when paying at a fare gate or fair reader.

The new addition is a major benefit for tourists and locals who tend to use transit more sparingly.

The long-awaited revamp means no more rummaging for change for a single ride on transit. It means no more delays at the Seabus from riders lining up for one paper ticket. Even the notorious crowds and delays at Stadium-Chinatown after a Canucks game or concert will be cut down, at least by a little bit.

With the new technology, however, comes another reminder to tap your card and not your wallet. The reason being is to avoid being charged with a different card than intended.

Compass Card

TransLink’s ‘tap your card, not your wallet’ campaign. (Kenneth Chan / Daily Hive)

According to TransLink, riders will never be charged through multiple cards with a single tap, but it’s unclear which card could be charged. Fairs on a compass card are still cheaper than paying with a credit card.

For example, the payment for a single-use ride on credit card or mobile app costs $2.85, where that same fare on a compass card only costs $2.20.

As part of a continuing campaign to educate riders about the new credit card capability, Visa Canada will be launching a new advertising campaign in Metro Vancouver throughout the months of June and July that includes public service announcements on SkyTrain and buses by American actor Morgan Freeman.

For more information on TransLink’s new credit card and mobile wallet payment options, read our original story.

-With files from Kenneth Chan 

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