Discover everything you need to know about riding Madison Metro, your efficient and affordable public transportation solution. Whether you’re a daily commuter, student, or visitor, understanding the fare system is key to seamless travel. This guide breaks down the new Fast Fare system, pricing options, and essential tips for using Madison Public Transportation effectively.
Metro driver holding a Fast Fare card
Madison Metro is making public transit more accessible and convenient with the introduction of the Fast Fare system. This innovative approach eliminates the need for pre-purchased passes or cards, ensuring you always get the best possible fare. With fare capping, you’ll never pay more than the daily, weekly, or monthly limit, no matter how often you ride.
Understanding Fast Fare Pricing
Madison Metro offers a variety of fare options to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the Fast Fare pricing structure:
Adult Fare Cap Prices
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Single ride | $2.00 |
| Day | $5.00 |
| Week | $16.25 |
| Month | $65.00 |
Reduced Fare Prices (For youth, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income riders)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Single ride | $1.00 |
| Day | $2.50 |
| Week | $7.00 |
| Month | $28.00 |
Youth Pass Pricing
| Pass Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Semester Pass | $165.00 |
| School Year Pass | $315.00 |
Important Fare Information for Madison Metro Riders
Keep these points in mind when using Madison public transportation:
- BRT Station Boarding: Cash is not accepted on buses at Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations. Purchase single tickets or day passes at the automatic ticket machines available on most BRT platforms.
- Tap Your Fast Fare Card: Always tap your Fast Fare card upon boarding. Transfers are automatically managed within your account, ensuring you are not charged again within a 2-hour transfer window.
- No Paper Transfers at BRT Stations: Paper transfers are not valid when boarding at BRT stations.
- Standard Bus Boarding: Have your pass or exact cash fare ready when boarding standard buses.
- UW Campus Routes: Routes 80-84 on the University of Wisconsin campus are free for students, employees, affiliates, and visitors.
Paratransit Services
Paratransit pricing remains unchanged, with new fare technology for paratransit riders expected in 2025. For detailed paratransit fare information, please refer to the official Madison Metro website.
Purchasing Tickets and Passes
You can conveniently purchase tickets and passes through the mail. Allow 8 to 10 business days for processing your mail orders. Visit the Madison Metro website for online ordering options and printable order forms.
Current Fixed-Route Fare Acceptance
Until the full launch of the BRT system, Madison Metro will continue to accept the following on standard buses:
- Cash
- Paper transfers
- Old fare items
However, please note that cash, paper transfers, and old fare items will not be accepted when boarding at BRT stations. Cash riders intending to board at BRT stations should use the automatic ticket machines on station platforms. Unused old fare items can be traded in for value on new Fast Fare cards. Cash and old fare items are accepted on standard buses identified by blue signs with metal poles through 2025.
Cash Fares
| Rider Type | Fare |
|---|---|
| Adult | $2.00 |
| Youth (5–17 or high school) | $1.00 |
| Senior / Disabled | $1.00 |
| Child (under 5, with chaperone) | Free |
Youth Fast Fares
| Pass Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Youth Semester Pass | $165.00 |
| Youth School Year Pass | $315.00 |
Need Assistance?
For any questions, please call (608) 266-4466 or email [email protected]. Enjoy your ride on Madison Public Transportation!
