ENNew Transit Connect Fare App Launching This Summer!
SacRT is embracing technology to improve the rider experience—and later this summer, we’re excited to launch a new, easy-to-use mobile fare payment app, called Transit Connect.
Transit connect
Why We’re Launching Transit Connect
Due to a significant increase in vandalism to SacRT’s Connect Card screen reader devices at light rail stations—impacting daily fare validation—we’ve accelerated long-term solutions to modernize our fare payment system.
The Transit Connect app allows riders, including state employees, students, and social service benefit recipients, to purchase and validate fares directly on their smartphones—eliminating the need to hunt for a working Connect Card reader or seek reimbursements for disrupted rides.
Phase 1 Launch – Expected to Begin in September 2025
The first phase will include SacRT and Yolobus riders. SacRT will launch in September with Yolobus joining in October.
Key features will include:
- Mobile fare purchase and storage – Buy tickets or passes in seconds using a credit card or debit card.
- Visual fare validation – Show your activated ticket to the operator or fare inspector (similar to the current ZipPass app).
- Cash-to-mobile option – Load fares at participating retail locations, providing flexibility for riders who prefer to use cash.
- Account protection – Easily restore tickets if you switch or lose your phone.
Phase 2 will launch in early spring 2026, with exciting enhancements:
- Tap2Ride integration – Riders will be able to validate fares electronically on buses, SacRT GO, and eventually light rail.
- Faster boarding – Tap your phone instead of interacting with an operator, reducing wait times.
- Fare capping – Riders will never pay more than the daily or monthly maximum, even when transferring between bus and light rail.
- Real-time data – Improved location and ridership tracking enhances service planning and customer alerts.
- Loading cash option - riders would be able to load cash at fare vending machines along with convenience store network
A Path Toward Regional Integration
Just like the Connect Card system, Transit Connect will expand to include SacRT’s transit partners throughout the region. Full integration is expected by fall 2026, creating a seamless fare payment experience across multiple transit providers in a single app.
Transit Connect is more than a new app—it’s a smarter, simpler way to ride. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional rider, this new system is designed to work for you.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the launch in September 2025!
Transit Connect App
Our mobile fare app Transit Connect allows you to pre-purchase, store and activate SacRT tickets and passes instantly on your smartphone for both bus or light rail. Simply download the app from either the App Store or Google Play to get started.
- Ride buses and light rail trains for 90 minutes using a valid single ride ticket
- State of the art security to protect personal information
- Purchase single ride tickets, daily or monthly passes
How to Use New Transit Connect App
Learn how to download and use the new Transit Connect App to pay your fare on SacRT! Check out the steps in the how to use video.