Transit Connect FAQs

Answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about SacRT’s new Transit Connect App.

General Questions

Q: What is Transit Connect?	A: Transit Connect is SacRT’s new mobile fare payment app that makes it easier to buy, store, and use tickets and passes right on your smartphone.
Q: Who is the app for?	A: Transit Connect is for all SacRT riders, whether you ride every day, or just occasionally.
Q: When did Transit Connect launch?	A: Phase 1 launched in September 2025 for full fare. In December 2025, SacRT began offering discount fare.
Q: What will happen to the current ZipPass app?	A: ZipPass will continue to work for a short time after Transit Connect launches but is expected to be phased out in early 2026.

Using the App

Q: How do I get the app?	A: The app is available for download from the App Store for iPhones and Google Play for Android Devices.
Q: Is the app free?	A: Yes, the app is free to download.
Q: How do I get started with the app?	A: To get started using the app, create an account with your email address.
Q: What types of tickets and passes are available on Transit Connect?	A: Users can purchase single ride tickets and discount fare for both SacRT’s fixed route and SacRT Go services, daily passes, semi-monthly passes and monthly passes.
Q: Can I purchase discount fare on Transit Connect?	A: Yes, but riders must be able to show proof that they are eligible for discount fare when riding. Details at sacrt.com/fares.
Q: What payment methods can I use to buy tickets?	A: You’ll be able to use a credit or debit card to purchase fares in the app. Customers may also visit SacRT’s Customer Service Sales Center located at 1225 R Street to purchase fares with cash.
Q: How do I show proof of payment when I ride?	A: In Phase 1, you’ll show your activated ticket on your phone screen to the bus operator or fare inspector—just like with ZipPass.
Q: What happens if I lose my phone?	A: Tickets and passes are protected by your Transit Connect account. You can restore them when you log in on a new device.

Using Discount Fare

Q: Who qualifies for a discount fare in the Transit Connect App?	A: Discount fares are available for: Seniors (age 62+) Veterans Students Persons with disabilities
Q: How do I get a discount fare if I’m new to the Transit Connect App?	A: Follow these steps: Download the Transit Connect App from the App Store or Google Play. Tap “Get Started.” Tap “Fare Type” and select your discount category. You’ll receive a confirmation message. Go to “Buy Tickets” – discount fare options will now be available. Purchase your pass and activate it when you’re ready to ride.
Q: Do I need to show proof of eligibility for a discount fare?	A: Yes. Be prepared to show valid ID or documentation (e.g., student ID, veteran ID, disability card, or proof of age) if requested by a fare inspector or bus operator.
Q: I already use the Transit Connect App. How do I add a discount fare?	A: Tap the profile icon (top right corner). Select “My Account.” Tap “Discounts.” Choose your discount fare category. Discount fare options will now appear automatically when you buy tickets.
Q: Can I purchase discount fare on Transit Connect?	A: Yes, but riders must be able to show proof that they are eligible for discount fare when riding. Details at sacrt.com/fares.
Q: What payment methods can I use to buy tickets?	A: You’ll be able to use a credit or debit card to purchase fares in the app. Customers may also visit SacRT’s Customer Service Sales Center located at 1225 R Street to purchase fares with cash.
Q: What types of discount passes are available?	You can purchase: Single ride passes Daily passes Monthly passes All at the discounted rate once your fare type is selected.
Q: What if I need help setting up my discount fare?	A: Contact SacRT Customer Service at 916-321-BUSS (2877) for assistance.

Future Features (Phase 2 – Early Spring 2026)

Q: Will I be able to just tap my phone to pay instead of showing the screen?	A: Yes! Phase 2 will include Tap2Ride, which lets you validate fares electronically on buses, SacRT GO, and eventually light rail.
Q: Will the app help make boarding faster?	A: Yes. With Tap2Ride, you’ll just tap or scan your phone when boarding, reducing wait times.
Q: If I ride a lot in one day, how can I prevent overpaying?	A: During Phase 2, Transit Connect will have built-in fare capping, which means you’ll never pay more than the daily maximum (cost of a daily pass), even if you take multiple trips or transfer between buses and light rail.
Q: Can I load cash into the Transit Connect app?	A: Starting in Phase 2, you’ll be able to load cash at fare vending machines and participating convenience stores.

Regional Expansion

Q: Will Transit Connect work with other transit providers besides SacRT?	A: Yes. Just like the Connect Card system, Transit Connect will expand to include regional partners. Full integration is expected by fall 2026.
Q: Will I need multiple apps for different transit agencies?	A: No. Once full integration is complete, you’ll be able to use a single app—Transit Connect—for multiple transit providers across the region.

Los Rios Students

Q: I am a Los Rios student who was using ZipPass to access my UTP (Universal Transit Pass). How does Transit Connect affect me?

A: Your UTP will continue to be available on ZipPass during phase 1. SacRT anticipates transition Los Rios students to Transit Connect after phase 2 launches in 2026.

State Workers and Other Connect Card Users

Q: My transit pass is subsidized by my employer (state workers). When will I be able to take advantage of Transit Connect?

A: You may download and begin using Transit Connect immediately, however, subsidized riders will have to pay for their transit pass out of pocket and be reimbursed by their employer or subsidizing agency at a later date. State workers and other subsidized pass holders are expected to fully Transit Connect as part of phase 2 in 2026.