MTA Deploys Validators to Recover Bus Revenue
MTA deploys handheld validators on buses as fare evasion drops from 58% to 50%
MTA Adds Handheld Validators to Curb Bus Fare Evasion
New York City bus riders will see more civilian Eagle Teams checking fares with handheld payment validators as the MTA expands its effort to combat fare evasion. The agency's using onboard validation devices on both Select Bus Service and local routes to verify OMNY card, credit card, or phone payments. More than 58% of riders didn't pay on SBS buses in 2024, though that's dropped to just over 50% as of the first quarter of 2026.
Context
Fare evasion on buses became a significant problem after COVID-19, when the MTA made buses free for several months. The agency's now trying to recover lost revenue while transitioning riders to its OMNY contactless payment system. Currently, 97.5% of riders are using OMNY to pay their fares, making validation easier with the new handheld devices. Only 2.5% of riders have yet to adopt OMNY, with many being seniors and non-English speakers who still use change.
Implementation Details
The Eagle Teams are initially focusing on education and issuing warnings rather than immediate penalties as riders adjust to the system. The MTA's reaching out to senior centers and using mobile vans to educate people about OMNY usage and transfers. MetroCard usage has dropped to 0.5% of riders, and MetroCard readers are beginning to be removed from the subway system. The agency hasn't announced when it plans to transition to OMNY-only payment.
Timeline
The validator expansion's already underway on both SBS and local bus routes across the city. Officials didn't provide a specific timeline for when the education phase will end and enforcement will begin. The MTA also hasn't said how many additional Eagle Team members will be deployed or which routes will see the most frequent validator checks.
Rider Impact
Riders should be prepared to show proof of payment when Eagle Teams board buses, whether that's tapping an OMNY card, credit card, or phone. Those still using cash or MetroCard can continue doing so, though officials are encouraging the switch to OMNY for faster boarding and easier transfers. Moovit provides real-time updates for MTA bus routes and can help riders plan trips across the system.
