PHILADELPHIA (May 7, 2026) – SEPTA is launching its multi-rider feature for contactless payments starting on Friday, May 8. This means customers on all modes – buses, subways, trolleys, and Regional Rail – can easily tap their credit/debit card or mobile wallet at a validator to pay the fares for up to five riders.
Up until now, this feature was only available when using a SEPTA Key card. Expanding it to contactless payments offers more convenience for groups who may not want to plan their trips in advance, purchase a physical Key card, or use cash to pay their fares – just tap and go.
In addition to the added convenience for regular riders, the launch comes in time for SEPTA to welcome visitors from across the country and the world for the PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, MLB All Star Game, and exciting events this summer to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
“Rolling out this technology is another way we are making SEPTA easier to navigate for both first-time visitors and regular riders,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “With the influx of people expected to flood the system this summer, the multi-rider feature will make travel more efficient and seamless for groups heading to the sports complex and other destinations across the city and region.”
SEPTA launched contactless payment technology on Buses and Metro in September 2023, expanding it to Regional Rail last April.
Contactless payment usage is up 20% from last year – representing more than 50% of Bus and Metro, and 23% of Regional Rail single trip purchases. During large events, contactless usage spikes by as much as 25%.
Contactless fares cost the same as Travel Wallet with two free transfers for Bus and Metro trips.
Riders who experience issues with the multi-rider feature on contactless, please call the Key Call Center at 1-855-56-SEPTA.
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