Ontario Introduces One Fare Program: Simplified Transit Payments

The Ontario government is launching the “One Fare” program to help public transit users save money. Starting February 26, 2024, riders can transfer for free between the TTC and other participating transit providers in the Greater Toronto Area, including GO Transit. This initiative is expected to save riders an average of $1,600 per year.

How the One Fare Program Works:

Customers using a PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, or debit/credit card (physical or mobile) can transfer for free between the TTC, Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay, and York Region Transit. The program aims to make cross-border travel more affordable and convenient for students, seniors, and other commuters.

Key Points of the One Fare Program:

• Customers pay only once for transfers between participating transit agencies.
• TTC users connecting to and from GO Transit will receive a fare rebate, making their TTC journey free.
• The program applies to all TTC fare discount pass consumers, including youths, adults, post-secondary students, and seniors.

How to Use the One Fare Program:

• Customers tap their PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, or debit/credit card upon boarding a vehicle or entering a station to pay their initial fare.
• A two-hour transfer is automatically applied to the card.
• When transferring between agencies within the transfer window, customers continue tapping with their original payment method.
• PRESTO cards can be purchased for $4 at TTC fare vending machines, Shoppers Drug Mart, prestocard.ca, and select Toronto Public Library branches.

Eligibility:

• The One Fare Program is open to all adults, teenagers, post-secondary students, and seniors using eligible payment methods.
• Free PRESTO cards are available at select Toronto Public Library branches.

Overall, the Ontario One Fare Program aims to simplify transit payments and make commuting more affordable for residents across the Greater Toronto Area.