Edmonton

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Ticketing

Methods to purchase and use tickets for public transportation, such as buses and the LRT.

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Comprehensive Guide to Public Transportation Ticketing in Edmonton, Canada

Edmontonโ€™s public transportation system, operated by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), includes buses, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, and regional commuter services. The system is designed to be accessible and convenient for both residents and visitors. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate ticketing options, costs, and procedures.

1. Types of Tickets and Passes

ETS offers several ticketing options to suit different travel needs:

a. Single-Use Tickets

  • Description: Valid for one-way travel on buses and LRT, including transfers within 90 minutes of activation.
  • Cost:
    • Adult (ages 24โ€“64): CAD 3.75
    • Youth (ages 6โ€“23): CAD 2.75
    • Seniors (65+): CAD 3.75 (discounted monthly passes are available for seniors instead of single tickets).
  • Where to Buy:
    • Ticket vending machines at LRT stations.
    • ETS retail outlets (e.g., convenience stores, grocery stores).
    • Online (via the Arc Card system, see below).

b. Day Pass

  • Description: Unlimited travel on buses and LRT for one calendar day.
  • Cost: CAD 10.25 (valid for all ages).
  • Where to Buy:
    • Ticket vending machines at LRT stations.
    • ETS retail outlets.

c. Monthly Pass

  • Description: Unlimited travel for a calendar month.
  • Cost:
    • Adult: CAD 100
    • Youth: CAD 73
    • Senior: CAD 35 (for low-income seniors, CAD 20.50).
  • Where to Buy:
    • ETS retail outlets.
    • Online via the Arc Card system.

d. Arc Card (Smart Fare System)

  • Description: A reloadable smart card for pay-as-you-go travel or purchasing passes. The Arc Card is Edmontonโ€™s new electronic fare payment system, replacing paper tickets and passes.
  • Cost:
    • Pay-as-you-go fares are capped at CAD 3.75 per trip for adults, with daily and monthly fare caps (e.g., you wonโ€™t pay more than CAD 10.25 in a day or CAD 100 in a month).
  • Where to Buy:
    • Online at myArc.ca.
    • At select retail locations.
    • At ETS Customer Service Centres.

e. Low-Income Pass

  • Description: Discounted monthly pass for eligible low-income residents.
  • Cost: CAD 35 (or CAD 20.50 for seniors).
  • Eligibility: Requires proof of income and application through the City of Edmonton.
  • Where to Apply: Online or at ETS Customer Service Centres.

2. Where to Purchase Tickets

  • Ticket Vending Machines: Located at all LRT stations. Accepts cash, credit, and debit cards.
  • Retail Outlets: ETS tickets and passes are sold at various convenience stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies across the city. A full list of locations is available on the ETS website.
  • Online: Purchase and reload Arc Cards at myArc.ca.
  • ETS Customer Service Centres: Located at key transit hubs, such as Churchill Station.

3. How to Use Tickets and Passes

a. Single-Use Tickets

  1. On Buses: Insert your ticket into the farebox near the driver. Keep the ticket as proof of payment for transfers.
  2. On LRT: Validate your ticket at the station validator before boarding. Keep the ticket with you during your trip.

b. Day Passes and Monthly Passes

  • Show your pass to the bus driver when boarding.
  • For LRT, carry your pass with you in case of fare inspections.

c. Arc Card

  1. Tap your Arc Card on the card reader when boarding a bus or entering an LRT station.
  2. The system will automatically deduct the correct fare or recognize your pass.
  3. If you reach the daily or monthly fare cap, no additional charges will apply.

4. Mobile and Online Options

  • Arc Card Online Portal: Manage your Arc Card account, reload funds, and purchase passes at myArc.ca.
  • ETS Live to Go App: While primarily a trip-planning app, it provides real-time transit updates and links to ticketing information.

5. Local Tips and Considerations

  1. Transfers: A single-use ticket includes 90 minutes of free transfers. Ensure you keep your validated ticket or transfer slip as proof of payment.
  2. Fare Inspections: On the LRT, fare inspectors frequently check for valid tickets or passes. Failure to produce one may result in a fine.
  3. Arc Card Benefits: The Arc Card is highly recommended for frequent travelers due to its fare-capping feature, which ensures you never pay more than the cost of a day pass or monthly pass.
  4. Accessibility: All buses and LRT stations are wheelchair accessible. Seniors and individuals with disabilities may qualify for additional discounts or specialized services.
  5. Children: Kids under 6 travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult.
  6. Regional Travel: If you plan to travel to nearby cities like St. Albert or Strathcona County, check for regional fare integration options with the Arc Card.

6. Additional Resources

  • ETS Website: www.edmonton.ca/ets
  • Arc Card Website: www.myarc.ca
  • Customer Service: Call 311 (within Edmonton) or +1-780-442-5311 (outside Edmonton) for assistance.

By understanding the ticketing system and planning ahead, you can easily navigate Edmontonโ€™s public transportation network. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, the ETS system is a reliable and affordable way to explore the city.