In Washington D.C., there are various transportation options, but the recommended ones are the metro, city buses, and circulator buses. To make use of these services more convenient, you can use an IC card called SmarTrip. For first-time visitors, it might be confusing to figure out how to buy and charge this card, so let me guide you through the process.
About SmarTrip
SmarTrip is a touch-based IC card used for riding the metro, city buses, and circulator buses in Washington D.C. With this card, you can access the entire city and its surrounding areas, significantly expanding your options for sightseeing. The D.C. metro system covers most of the city and is very convenient.
Where to Purchase SmarTrip
In most major U.S. cities, public transportation systems adopt IC cards, which can be obtained at stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies. However, in the case of SmarTrip in Washington D.C., you can only purchase it from the ticket vending machines at metro stations. So, if you are about to take the bus for the first time without a SmarTrip card, make sure to go to the nearest station to buy one.
How to Purchase SmarTrip
The process of buying a SmarTrip card might look intimidating with lots of small letters on the ticket vending machine. However, don’t be discouraged; let’s go through the steps together:
- Press the button beside “SELECT PURCHASE.” Then, press the “B” button for “PURCHASE SINGLE CARD” (to buy one card).
- Next, press the “B” button again for “PURCHASE VALUE” (to set the amount to charge).
- Use the “+S” (for dollars) and “+C” (for cents) buttons to adjust the charging amount. The screen will display $10, including the $2 card fee and an initial $8 charge. Depending on your destinations and duration of stay, adjust the charging amount accordingly.
- Press the “C” button for “PRESS WHEN DONE” to confirm the charging amount.
- Finally, press the “C” button again for “PRESS C TO COMPLETE TRANSACTION” to confirm the transaction.
Afterward, you will choose your payment method using the “A,” “B,” or “C” buttons. “A” is for cash, “B” for credit cards, and “C” for debit cards. If paying with cash, insert your bills into the slot on the left (only $1, $5, $10, or $20 bills are accepted), or use the coin slot on the right (only 5 cents, 10 cents, or 25 cents coins are accepted). If using a credit or debit card, insert your card into the slot on the right and enter your PIN using the keypad above. Remember that the card won’t go all the way in, but that’s normal.
Once the payment is complete, your SmarTrip card will be dispensed from the credit card slot or the cash change slot (if paying with cash). Don’t forget to take it!
Charging Your SmarTrip
To charge your SmarTrip card, simply touch it against the designated area on the ticket vending machine, just like when you purchased it. After charging, remember to touch it again at the same spot to finalize the transaction.
Notes for Bus Usage
While the metro system is well-equipped for SmarTrip usage, there are a few things to note when using buses. You cannot charge your SmarTrip card on the bus, and if you’re paying with cash, you won’t receive change.
Refunds
If you end up with remaining value on your SmarTrip card when leaving D.C., don’t worry. You can get a refund for the remaining balance. Just approach a station staff member at the fare gates, and they will assist you with the refund process.
Enjoy Sightseeing in D.C. with SmarTrip
Having a SmarTrip card makes sightseeing in D.C. more convenient. It covers most of the city through the metro and buses, allowing you to explore various attractions. Once you get used to the ticket vending machine process, it’ll be a breeze, and even if you find it a bit challenging, it’ll become a memorable part of your travel experience. So, why not try walking around D.C. with just one SmarTrip card? Enjoy your trip!
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