LA Metro Expands Smart Fare Tech to Three Stations

Metro adds distance-based TAP-to-Exit at Pomona North, North Hollywood, Union Station

Metro Expands TAP-to-Exit to Three LA Stations

Metro riders at three major Los Angeles stations now must tap their TAP cards when exiting, as the agency expands its distance-based fare collection system. The TAP-to-Exit program added Pomona North Station and restarted operations at North Hollywood and Union Station in November, transit officials said. The expansion affects thousands of daily commuters who use these end-of-line stations across the region's rail network.

Distance-Based Fare System Rolls Out Systemwide

The TAP-to-Exit initiative represents Metro's shift toward distance-based fare collection, requiring riders to tap both when entering and exiting stations. Metro first expanded the program to Union Station's B and D Lines in February 2025, according to an agency announcement published November 17. Officials said the system helps track ridership patterns and maintain fare compliance across the rail network. The agency aims to implement TAP-to-Exit at all end-of-line stations by the end of 2025, though officials haven't specified which additional stations will be added next.

Three Stations Now Require Exit Taps

Pomona North Station received TAP-to-Exit technology for the first time as part of the November expansion, while North Hollywood and Union Station saw the program reinstated after previous implementations. The system calculates fares based on distance traveled rather than flat rates, transit officials said. Officials didn't provide specific ridership numbers for the affected stations or detail how many riders the expansion impacts daily. The technology allows Metro to collect more precise data on travel patterns across its rail lines.

Systemwide Rollout Continues Through Year-End

Metro plans to complete TAP-to-Exit installation at all end-of-line stations by December 2025, officials said. The agency hasn't released a detailed timeline showing which stations will receive the technology next or specific implementation dates for remaining locations. Officials said the phased approach allows Metro to test the system and address technical issues before expanding to additional stations.

Riders Must Adapt to Two-Tap System

Commuters using Pomona North, North Hollywood, and Union Station need to remember to tap their cards when leaving trains, not just when entering. Riders who forget to tap out may face fare penalties or incorrect charges on their TAP accounts, though officials didn't specify exact penalty amounts. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro rail lines and can help riders plan trips across the expanding TAP-to-Exit network.