LA Metro Strengthens Fare Accuracy Systemwide

LA Metro requires riders to tap cards twice at Union Station and other hubs

Metro Expands TAP-to-Exit to Union Station

Los Angeles Metro riders at Union Station now need to tap their TAP cards twice per trip after the transit agency expanded its TAP-to-Exit program to the busy hub on February 18. The change affects thousands of daily commuters who pass through one of the region's busiest transit stations. Metro officials said the expansion marks a major step in rolling out the tap-to-exit system across all end-of-line stations throughout 2025.

Background on TAP-to-Exit Implementation

The TAP-to-Exit program requires passengers to tap their cards when both entering and exiting Metro stations, replacing the previous system where riders only tapped once at entry. Metro officials said the dual-tap system allows for more accurate fare calculation and better data collection on ridership patterns. The program had been tested at select stations before expanding to Union Station, one of the region's most critical transit connections. Transit agencies nationwide have adopted similar tap-on-tap-off systems to improve fare accuracy and understand how riders move through their networks.

Continued Expansion Across Metro System

Metro continued expanding the program beyond Union Station, adding TAP-to-Exit at Pomona North Station on November 17. The agency also reinstated the system at North Hollywood and Union Station on the same date, ensuring consistent coverage across key transit hubs. Officials said the phased approach helps maintain system reliability while improving the rider experience. The expansion is part of Metro's plan to implement TAP-to-Exit at all end-of-line stations by the end of 2025, though officials haven't specified exactly how many additional stations will receive the system or the precise timeline for each location.

Implementation Timeline and Rollout

The initial Union Station expansion launched February 18, with the November 17 additions coming nine months later. Metro officials said they're working to complete the systemwide rollout throughout 2025, though specific dates for remaining stations weren't provided. The agency typically announces expansion dates several weeks before implementation to give riders time to adjust to the new requirements.

What Riders Need to Know

Commuters using stations with TAP-to-Exit must remember to tap both when entering and exiting to avoid potential fare issues or penalties. Officials said the system benefits riders by ensuring accurate fare charges based on actual distance traveled. Metro hasn't specified whether fare structures will change as a result of the more precise tracking. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on Metro services and station information as the TAP-to-Exit program continues expanding across the Los Angeles transit network.