LA Metro Expands TAP-to-Exit to Improve Service
Metro requires riders to tap cards twice at Pomona North, Union, North Hollywood stations
Metro Expands TAP-to-Exit Program Across LA
Metro riders at three key stations now need to tap their cards twice when traveling, as the transit agency expands its TAP-to-Exit program. The system launched November 17 at Pomona North Station and Union Station, while restarting at North Hollywood Station, transit officials said. The expansion affects thousands of daily riders who use these major transit hubs, though officials didn't specify exact ridership numbers for the affected stations.
Why Metro's Requiring Exit Taps at Terminal Stations
The TAP-to-Exit requirement helps Metro track ridership patterns and ensure proper fare payment across the system, according to the transit agency. Officials said the program focuses on end-of-line stations where passengers complete their journeys. Transit agencies typically use entry-exit data to optimize service planning and allocate resources more effectively. Metro officials said the expansion is part of broader efforts to modernize fare collection, though they haven't released specific data on how the program has affected fare compliance at stations where it's already operating.
Three Stations Now Require Double Tapping
Pomona North Station and Union Station joined the TAP-to-Exit network on November 17, while North Hollywood Station resumed the requirement after a previous pause, officials confirmed. Riders must tap their TAP cards when entering the system and again when exiting at these locations. Officials didn't say why North Hollywood Station had temporarily suspended the exit-tap requirement or how long the pause lasted. The agency said the system works with all existing TAP cards and doesn't require riders to obtain new fare media.
Full End-of-Line Coverage Planned by Year's End
Metro plans to implement TAP-to-Exit at all end-of-line stations by 2025, officials said. The November 17 expansion brings the agency closer to that goal, though officials haven't said how many additional stations still need the system or when specific locations will be added. Transit officials said the phased rollout allows them to address technical issues and ensure smooth implementation before expanding further.
What Riders Need to Know About the Changes
Riders using Pomona North, Union, or North Hollywood stations should allow extra time for the exit-tap process, particularly during peak hours when lines at validators may form. Officials said forgetting to tap out could result in fare issues, though they didn't specify what penalties riders might face. Metro said it'll provide signage and staff assistance at affected stations during the transition period. Moovit provides real-time updates for Metro routes and can help riders plan trips that account for the new exit-tap requirements at these stations.
