Miami

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Ticketing

Understanding ticketing systems for public transit and other transportation modes, including apps and passes, is crucial for newcomers.

Sections

1. Overview of Miamiโ€™s Public Transportation System

Miamiโ€™s public transportation is managed by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) and includes the following services:

  • Metrorail: A 25-mile elevated rail system connecting downtown Miami to surrounding areas, including Miami International Airport (MIA).
  • Metromover: A free automated people mover system that operates in downtown Miami and Brickell.
  • Metrobus: A network of over 90 bus routes serving Miami-Dade County and connecting to Broward and Monroe Counties.
  • Brightline: A high-speed rail service connecting Miami to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando (separate ticketing system).

2. Types of Tickets and Passes

Miami-Dade Transit offers several ticketing options to suit different needs:

a. EASY Card

  • A reloadable plastic card used for all Miami-Dade Transit services (Metrorail, Metrobus, and transfers).
  • Best for frequent riders or long-term residents.
  • Can store daily, weekly, or monthly passes, as well as cash value for pay-as-you-go rides.

b. EASY Ticket

  • A paper-based ticket for short-term use.
  • Ideal for tourists or occasional riders.
  • Can store a single trip, daily pass, or 7-day pass.

c. Contactless Payment

  • Riders can now use contactless credit/debit cards, smartphones (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), or smartwatches to pay directly at Metrorail fare gates and Metrobus fareboxes.
  • No need to purchase a separate ticket or card.

d. Pass Options

  1. Single Trip Fare:
    • Metrobus: $2.25
    • Metrorail: $2.25
    • Transfers between Metrobus and Metrorail: Free within 3 hours.
  2. 1-Day Pass: $5.65 (unlimited rides on Metrobus and Metrorail for one day).
  3. 7-Day Pass: $29.25 (unlimited rides for 7 consecutive days).
  4. Monthly Pass: $112.50 (unlimited rides for a calendar month).

e. Discounted Fares

  • Reduced Fare EASY Card: Available for seniors (65+), people with disabilities, Medicare recipients, and youth (ages 6-18). Fares are 50% off.
  • College EASY Card: Discounted monthly passes for college students.
  • Corporate EASY Card: Discounted passes for employees through participating employers.

3. Where and How to Purchase Tickets

You can purchase tickets and passes through the following methods:

a. Online

  • Visit the official Miami-Dade Transit website (miamidade.gov/transit) to order an EASY Card or reload it with passes or cash value.

b. EASY Card Vending Machines

  • Located at all Metrorail stations and select bus terminals.
  • Accepts cash, credit, and debit cards.
  • Dispenses both EASY Cards and EASY Tickets.

c. Retail Locations

  • EASY Cards and EASY Tickets are available at over 100 retail outlets, including CVS, Sedanoโ€™s, and Presidente Supermarkets.

d. Transit Service Centers

  • Purchase or reload cards at the Government Center Metrorail Station or the Miami International Airport Metrorail Station.

e. Mobile Apps

  1. GO Miami-Dade Transit App:
    • Plan trips, track buses and trains in real-time, and manage your EASY Card account.
    • Available for iOS and Android.
  2. Transit App:
    • Provides real-time transit updates and route planning.
    • Allows you to pay for rides using contactless payment methods.

f. Onboard Payment

  • Metrobus fareboxes accept exact cash fare (no change provided).
  • Contactless payment methods are also accepted onboard.

4. Tips for Efficiently Navigating Miamiโ€™s Transportation System

a. Use the Metromover for Free Downtown Travel

  • The Metromover is completely free and connects key areas in downtown Miami, including Brickell, Bayside Marketplace, and the Adrienne Arsht Center.

b. Plan Ahead with Apps

  • Use the GO Miami-Dade Transit App or Transit App to check schedules, plan routes, and track buses and trains in real-time.

c. Take Advantage of Transfers

  • Transfers between Metrobus and Metrorail are free within a 3-hour window when using an EASY Card or contactless payment.

d. Avoid Rush Hours

  • Peak hours are typically 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM on weekdays. Travel during off-peak hours for a more comfortable experience.

e. Consider the Brightline for Regional Travel

  • If youโ€™re traveling to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, or Orlando, the Brightline is a faster and more comfortable option than driving or taking a bus. Tickets start at $10 for short trips.

f. Accessibility

  • All Metrorail and Metrobus services are wheelchair accessible. Elevators are available at all Metrorail stations.

g. Parking at Metrorail Stations

  • Many Metrorail stations offer parking for $4.50 per day. You can pay using the PayByPhone app or at station kiosks.

5. Special Considerations for Tourists and New Residents

For Tourists:

  • The 1-Day Pass or 7-Day Pass is the most cost-effective option if you plan to explore the city extensively.
  • Use the Metromover to visit popular downtown attractions for free.
  • Consider renting a bike or scooter for short trips, as Miami is becoming more bike-friendly.

For New Residents:

  • Invest in an EASY Card for convenience and savings on monthly passes.
  • Familiarize yourself with the Metrobus routes in your neighborhood, as buses often connect areas not served by the Metrorail.
  • Explore the South Dade Transitway, a dedicated busway that offers faster service in southern Miami-Dade County.

6. Additional Resources

  • Miami-Dade Transit Customer Service: Call 311 or 305-468-5900 for assistance.
  • Brightline Website: gobrightline.com for schedules and ticketing.
  • Parking App: Download the PayByPhone app for parking at Metrorail stations.

By understanding the ticketing options and using the tools available, you can navigate Miamiโ€™s public transportation system with ease. Whether youโ€™re a tourist exploring the city or a new resident commuting to work, Miami-Dade Transit offers flexible and affordable options to meet your needs.