APPLICATION
Ticket machines enable off-board fare payment and all-door boarding.
BENEFITS
Riders can use a number of payment methods to ride transit, including credit and debit cards, cash, and mobile payment systems.
Riders can purchase multiple fare types, and can integrate regional fare systems when agencies collaborate.
CONSIDERATIONS
Curbside fare machines are costly to install and maintain; use on high-frequency or high-volume corridors where reduced dwell time is a priority.
Accessibility is key; fare payment purchase instructions should be clear, simple, and well communicated, potentially in multiple languages. Machines should also include raised lettering or audible instructions, unless alternatives are available for visually-impaired passengers.
Cities are beginning to leverage mobile technology for ticketing, including system apps for off-board fare and pass purchases. The need for off-board fare payment may be reduced or eliminated where passengers are widely able to pay by app, substantially reducing the need for on-board fare payment.
CRITICAL
Vending machines must not block accessible path and boarding areas, or bus door zones.
Install an adequate number of machines to handle the expected number of passengers purchasing tickets during peak hours, especially if all riders must collect PoP tickets to board. Assess how many tickets can be purchased per machine per hour, and ensure fare machines can accommodate peak hour boardings.
Operable parts (including buttons or touch screens) must be placed at a height between 34 and 48 inches to accommodate users in wheelchairs (ADA Std. §308).